Julie's Bella 5/6 Conservative Neck

Welcome to Dodgerslist, my name is Pauliana, what is your name and your Doxie's name. Here is a link that has tips for handling cervical disc episodes.  www.dodgerslist.com/literature/cervical.htm

 Laser light therapy, acupuncture and electroacupuncture which sends a microcurrent of electricity to and from acupuncture points (which are really big nerve bundles), can be very beneficial at helping to re-establish the nerve connections in the body. Any one of these therapies can be started right away if in your budget... they not only help relieve pain and inflammation but will kick start nerves to begin regeneration. Find a holistic vet here: ahvma.org/Widgets/FindVet.html www.serenityvetacupuncture.com/index.php/faq_/ [one vet's overview/prices] NOTE: Chiropractic is not recommended for IVDD dogs.

-- What are the exact names of meds currently given, their doses in mgs and frequencies? Please include the all important stomach protector such as Pepcid AC.  Protect her stomach before stomach problems start. Prevention is far better than having to deal with an Ulcer or a stomach bleed from the Prednisone.

Prednisone will make her want to drink lots of water and she will need to urinate more often also, every 2 to 3 hours. 

I am glad with a few days  crate rest she isn't limping now. Good for you and for her!  That shows crate rest works! 100% STRICT crate rest 24/7 only out to potty is what works to heal the disc. Medications decrease the inflammation and mask the pain. Remember, no laps, no couch, no sleeping in bed with you, no meandering, scooting or dragging around during potty times. No baths, no chiro (aka VOM). 

Please let your dog know with your utmost confidence that things are going to be ok…because they will. With this disease self education is critical not just so you make sure the right things are being done for the best recovery but for your own emotions. The unknown is simply a scary place. Get ready to fight this disease now and in the future by knowing all things IVDD. There is no better place to start than on our main web page with "Overview: the essentials" and then read all you can as soon as possible. Here's the link www.dodgerslist.com/healingindex.htm


Let us know how she is doing and welcome again to the forum. 

Something to keep in mind about the MRI, Bella would have to be under anesthesia since she would have to be perfectly still. They normally  do MRI's immediately prior to surgery so the dog doesn't have to be anesthetized twice..It is great to know where the disc compression is but if you aren't planning surgery, it is really a major expense for satisfying the unknown. With conservative treatment it isn't neccessary to know which disc is causing the problem, the important thing is getting the swelling and inflammation down and the pain under control so she can rest in comfort. Many dogs recover very well just with conservative treatment.  However if surgery is under consideration, an MRI is the way to go.  Either way a Neuro consult is a good idea as they are normally more experienced in treating IVDD. 

Cortisteroids (Prednisone, Prednisolone, Dexamethasone, etc.) are involved with stimulating gastric acid secretion causing GI upset to the more threatening bleeding ulcers or holes in the stomach or intestine. Phrase the question to your vet in this particular way: "is there any medical reason my dog may not take Pepcid AC?" If there is no reason, we follow vets who are proactive in protecting the stomach by giving doxies 5MG Pepcid AC (generic name is Famotidine) 30 mins prior to steroid. Pepcid AC is a generally safe over-the-counter suppressor of stomach acid production for healthy dogs. Dogs don't speak up at first signs of trouble like a person would. By the time we notice black or red blood in the stools, things can quickly go from bleeding ulcers to a life threatening perforated stomach. We ask that all members read about each med their dog is on or may take as a safety measure. This directory is in alpha order:  www.marvistavet.com/html/pharmacy_center.html

Healing wishes for Bella..