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Post by Stacy & Fred on Aug 1, 2013 19:16:26 GMT -7
Thanks..and I seem to be very forum challeneged. I have 2 pics of the race in the cute and fun gallery for dodgerstlist but I can't figure out how in the world to put a pic on the thread...mind you I am using my phone but still..he is on page 19. Fred is the big brown weenie like (I said he likes his treats) if you look close enough you will see the little weenie to the right that he knocked over and the one next to him he is getting ready to slam into LOL. Bad bad weenie!!
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Post by Yvonne & Billy on Aug 1, 2013 20:05:49 GMT -7
I know I've seen the photo gallery before but now I can't find it to save my life! If you have time, would you send me the link please? I am dying to see the KO'd weenie in the back! Bahahahahahahahahahaha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Post by Stacy & Fred on Aug 2, 2013 9:49:47 GMT -7
Sure thing!!! Ill be posting tonight when I get home..you are going to get a kick of how we set up our bed for Fred. It looks like a hospital bed lol. Hope you are Gabi g a great healing day!
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Post by Pauliana on Aug 2, 2013 21:49:51 GMT -7
Happy Crate rest graduation, fieldhockey Fred! LOL Have a happy new normal! Sounds like your wonderful Mom Stacy has things all fixed up for you! Enjoy!!
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Post by Stacy & Fred on Aug 3, 2013 20:05:13 GMT -7
Yay..we did it!! I took Fred for a walk in his stoller today. He sat there like a good boy I also baracaded the couch off with pillows and sat on the floor with him for awhile. And...bad Fred..I decided to let him walk free in the back yard and he took off like a pistol. Heart dropped in fear..but smiled at the sametime. After reading so many other stories i can't help but think how lucky we were that this episode seems to be a minor one. My heart goes out to everyone here dealing with IVDD. Now that he is over his crate rest I can't help but worry. The what if's and missing something that could hurt him seem to be poking around in my head. How bad will it be next time? Makes listening to him snore next to me all the more precious. I don't have kids and never will so he is it. Oh..I also gave him a shower.. cleaned his ears and finally the umm..not so nice anal glands..wow..eck..it was bad.. then stressed that it was too much for him..we have our bed baracaded with the only access to get off is the ramp. It is comical..we have to climb over the kiddie rails to get in bed. So finally after all this time Fred is back where he belongs by my side IT IS AWESOME!! Thank you so much dodgerslist!!!!
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StevieLuv
Helpful Member
Conservative Treatment 3x. It really does work!
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Post by StevieLuv on Aug 5, 2013 20:15:32 GMT -7
Yahoo Freddie!! I just got back from holiday and I knew that he was going to gradutate while I was gone. Congratulations to both of you!!!! Happy Dance!!!!
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Post by Stacy & Fred on Aug 6, 2013 15:20:20 GMT -7
Help..help...Fred just tried to jump over the pillow baracade when I tried to stop him he yelped!! I put him back in the crate..should I give him anything??? Seriously freaking out!!
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Post by Pauliana on Aug 6, 2013 18:08:27 GMT -7
First watch him, for signs of pain.. It may have been a sudden owie and not a disc problem..If he isn't showing pain now,, it is likely a momentary pain and scare and nothing more. Let him out of the crate for a little while to observe him and how he walks.. If he acts normal, he is likely ok....
If any disc symtoms show up, and you feel he is in pain, crate him and I would give him a Tramadol because it is short acting and by the time he gets to the vet they would still be able to see symptoms if they need to... Giving him a Prednisone, being a powerful anti inflammatory it would hide symptoms..
Sending you comforting hugs,
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Post by Stacy & Fred on Aug 6, 2013 18:24:28 GMT -7
Omg...if I could hug you through the phone I would!! I just took him out to potty and he wanted to run and hunt. Here is the plan..and yes I am neurotic when it comes to Fred but my therapist says it is ok because knowing it is the first step lol . I'm crating him tonight and tomorrow. We both have to work so my sister is coming over in the morning to check on him and I'm going to take a late lunch and check on him. Worried because he never yelps..the last time that he did he went down like 3 days later. Also..I googled the local doggie neurologist and she got bad reviews.. I guess they have people leave their pets there so the doctor can examine them sometime during the day..so if he is showing pain going to take him to the neurologist in tampa and bypass the local vet, who is good but admitted he didn't feel comfortable with IVDD and thought neuologist is best bet.
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Marjorie
Moderator~
Member since 2011. Surgery & Conservative
Posts: 5,724
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Post by Marjorie on Aug 7, 2013 6:04:53 GMT -7
How is Fred doing this morning, Stacy? I'm so sorry to hear of this scare that you've had. I'm hoping that he just got scared when you tried to stop him from getting over the pillows. It's hard on the little guy not being able to get into the places he used to. Poor buddy! I hope to hear today that he's had no more pain and can gradually be eased back into a normal routine.
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Post by Stacy & Fred on Aug 7, 2013 15:34:51 GMT -7
Hey everyone...Fred is doing FINE!! He is snuggled up right now in my lap listening to the rain boy did I get scared lastnight..another hard lesson learned. special thanks to you all again for being there I will be updating on the update page. Big hugs to everyone and STAY SAFE SUPER IVDD PUPPIES!!
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Marjorie
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Member since 2011. Surgery & Conservative
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Post by Marjorie on Aug 7, 2013 15:56:11 GMT -7
I'm so glad to hear that Fred's fine, Stacy. Just a scare that turned out all right, thank goodness. Wishing for calm, happy days ahead for you and Fred.
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Post by Yvonne & Billy on Aug 7, 2013 17:20:48 GMT -7
Wow, what a big scare you had! Man, my Billy jumped on and off the couch twice in a row!!!!!! He was so excited when his daddy got home from work so I was S.C.A.R.E.D. for sure so I can totally understand. I guess I need bigger cushions to block the couch off. Honestly, I personally think neurotic dog moms are the best ones! Happy Graduation and many many congrats! p.s. I saw the weenie run pictures! LOVE them!!!!!!!
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Post by Stacy & Fred on Aug 10, 2013 7:50:11 GMT -7
Great morning so far fell asleep with Fred next to me snuggling and woke up to Fred's kisses love my little guy. Oh..and Fred would like me to annouce that he is the best lizard hunter ever..our lanai is now lizard free!! I swear I can see him smile..so so grateful! Praying for everyone here!
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Post by welovebailey on Aug 11, 2013 9:25:52 GMT -7
I am so beyond relieved to hear that little Fred is ok!!! I can only imagine how terrified you must have been when he yelped-- like your heart just about stopped from fear...I am so glad to hear he is doing fine, and there are no setbacks! I didn't get a chance to say it yet, but a huge ConGRaTuLatIons!!!! to you and Fred on graduating-- that has to be one of the best feelings in the world! And now to get to have him right by you whenever you want, snuggling close...enjoy every minute! It sounds like he is walking just wonderfully too--so proud and happy for you both and his amazing recovery! Take care, and enjoy being with your sweet little Fred~ give him an extra hug from Bailey & I; I wish more than anything that our story could have a happy ending, but I am so very happy for all of the people on here who do! Enjoy snuggling!
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Post by Stacy & Fred on Aug 13, 2013 20:27:20 GMT -7
Thanks Sarah I have turned neurotic...yep..I thought I saw Fred limping a little today. At least that is how it looked in the grass...but when inside he walked fine. He was also sick this morning eating grass and vomitting flem. I checked for fever but he had none..great appitite..oh and diarrhea..maybe he caught a lizard.. he has been going nuts over those lizards..making up for lost time. I finally got hubby on board with crating him when we can't watch him..phew...it is a relief knowing he is safe when I am not there. I have also stopped sitting on our couch and have taken to the floor. Fred wont stand for not sitting by me. He is so fast I am afraid he will jump and I won't catch him to stop. Oh..and this is just lovely..my big dog has been trying to mount him...well Fred is too short to mount but the big dog will wrap his paw around Fred's belly and try to lift him up!!! Nice..Grrr..poor Fred ..he just stood there looking at me like "really mom, really!" We have started going for daily walks around the corner..I take the stroller for when he gets tired. He did great yesterday but not so great today.. Anyway that is our update so far..will keep everyone posted ..
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Post by jochs311 on Aug 14, 2013 17:46:41 GMT -7
Oh Stacy I'm so happy that Freddie is doing good with his last little scare. I am on egg shells with Tucker out and about. I'm glad he is doing great!!
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Marjorie
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Member since 2011. Surgery & Conservative
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Post by Marjorie on Aug 14, 2013 19:08:22 GMT -7
I understand how you're feeling neurotic, Stacy - I'm the same. Every slightly off move that Jeremy makes, my heart starts to beat faster. I was just starting to feel more relaxed about the whole thing when Jeremy had his second episode and now I'm back to square one. You're a good mom, sitting on the floor with him! That was one of the hardest things for Jeremy after his first episode - not getting on the couch with me. But if I got down on the floor and sat with him for an hour or so watching TV, I'd never get up! I'm sure Freddie's enjoying those walks. He'll build his strength and stamina back up in no time.
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Post by Stacy & Fred on Aug 16, 2013 14:16:31 GMT -7
Ok..so Fred definately is limping on and off. I tried to take him for a walk and he wouldn't go lastnight. Came home from work and he didn't do his usual hunting thing..he walked a bit and sat right down. He also been eating a lot of grass. I'm freaked..I can't think of anything that could have caused this. I called the vet..he said to bring him in and he will give him a steroid shot..back on steroids and I also asked for famotidine for his belly. He isnt as bad as he was last time. I really thought it would be over after the 8 weeks. Does it sometimes take longer than 8 weeks?? His belly isn't hard and he is not shivering..but he is being very quiet in his crate.. ughhhh!!!!
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Marjorie
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Member since 2011. Surgery & Conservative
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Post by Marjorie on Aug 16, 2013 14:30:19 GMT -7
I'm hoping that maybe Fred just has a sore muscle from chasing lizards. His muscles haven't had time yet to build up so I'm hoping that maybe that's all it is. I'm sure one of the moderators will be on later and can help you better. I just wanted to let you know that I'm thinking of you and Fred and am sending you some hugs. So sorry this is happening.
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Post by Stacy & Fred on Aug 16, 2013 15:03:10 GMT -7
Thanks Marjorie...the girl at the vet said to give him a methocarbamol but I don't want anything masked for tomorrow..anyone..will the metho mask the problem? Greer...just want to cry..I took him out and he is definsyley limping...Grrr..he didn't even want to get in my lap when I sat on the floor..
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Sabrina
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My Charley-dog, a Dodger'sList grad enjoying life!
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Post by Sabrina on Aug 16, 2013 19:38:47 GMT -7
Hi Stacy - I'm so sorry Fred is limping. This IVDD stuff stinks. Did you get Fred in to the vet today, or is his appt for tomorrow? I don't know for sure, but I don't believe the methocarbamol is long-lasting. When my Charley was first diagnosed he was on 125mg every 6 hrs (he's about 15lbs). Since I had to give it so frequently, I assumed it was wearing off after the 6hrs. The methocarbamol is for muscle spasm pain, and this page www.marvistavet.com/html/body_methocarbamol.html says that the dose "peaks" in 2hrs for human use (it doesn't say how long it lasts, though). )Hugs!( - Sabrina
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StevieLuv
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Conservative Treatment 3x. It really does work!
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Post by StevieLuv on Aug 16, 2013 21:11:44 GMT -7
Hi Stacey - What a bummer that Fred is having trouble As much as you don't want to hear this...crate him, until he can see the Vet, and give him his methocarbamol ifyou think he needs it. Better safe than sorry. He may have just pulled a muscle or something, but why risk it? I know that he will be p o'd at you for the crate but it is for his own good. Stevie DID hurt herself 5 weeks out of her crate rest for her first IVDD episode in January, and we had to START OVER in April- really sucked I tell you. We are much more cautious this time around for certain. Here's hoping that Fred hasn't hurt anything important and that the Vet has good news. Please keep us posted - hugs to you and belly rubs to Freddie
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Post by Stacy & Fred on Aug 17, 2013 4:58:53 GMT -7
Thanks Maureen...I put him in the crate as when I got home and saw that his limp was worse. I'm getting ready now to take him to the vet to get checked out but fear the worse. 8 weeks...this limp is much different from his last one..this one is choppy..almost like it is his hip. Anyway when the vet called back he said he will give Fred a shot of steroids and back on meds however..this time I know more and better prepared.
If he needs meds going to ask to start with the steroids twice a day instead of once..ideas on that girls?? And ofcourse the famotidine.
Anyway wish us luck..still haven't paid off the last visits.
Can the vet say..CHA CHING!!!
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Post by Stacy & Fred on Aug 17, 2013 7:58:58 GMT -7
Ok we are back and I am confused...Dr said possibly a minor flair up and put him back on meds...here are the drugs.. 2 shots in office: Vetalog .1ml Adequan .4 ( this will start a series of shots..vet said it MAY help to keep flair ups at bay) Prednisolone 5 mg once a day for 2 weeks then every other day. (I asked the Dr why not twice a day and he thought it was a bit much with the shot he just gave) Famotidine 10 mg 1/2 tablet every 12 hours Methocarbamol 500 mg (every 8 hours but said I didn't have to give it to him I felt he didn't need it) Ok..so..not sure how I did..I was byyself and it was hard.. What do you think about adequan shots? He is currently seeing 4 doxies with back issues..2 went to surgery..one he recommended for surgery but they didnt go through with surgery and one that is staying at vet being treat for the neck. The one that couldnt afford the surgery he put on adequan shots and she is doing betterso far with no flair ups. He didn't say anything about crate rest again and my family is against it..but at the end of the day it will be what I decide..so..ladies. Once again..input, advice, moderators please take a look at the meds he put him on and the amount..I was under the gun and stressed so a bit worried we got it right and if the adequan shot was a good choice. Once again thank you for all of your help!! Fred's neurotic crazy mom
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Marjorie
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Member since 2011. Surgery & Conservative
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Post by Marjorie on Aug 17, 2013 10:13:23 GMT -7
I'm sorry to hear that the vet felt that this might be a flair up, though good that he thinks it's minor. I was really hoping for a sore muscle.
As for the crate rest, if this is a flair up of IVDD, then yes, I would crate him. You don't want him to get worse by moving too much. As for how long, the moderators would be better at advising you on that and also on the meds.
I did find Adequan on Dodgerslist's website so it does not look like you did wrong in agreeing to the injection. Again, the moderators would be able to tell you about that but here's what the website says:
Adequan is a water-based, semi-synthetic, injectable polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (similiar to a liquid glucosamine) prepared by extracting glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) from beef tracheal cartilage.Designed and marketed for arthritis, the theory is that it helps repair and keep the cartilage in the joints healthier which, in turn, protects the bone in the joint. It may help with IVDD. The loading dose is 2 shots per week for 4 weeks. Then, it is usually followed up with a monthly booster. Caution: AVOID use with dogs who are allergic to beef, diabetic, have kidney or liver problems, or any suspected bleeding/clotting disorders. An excess of glucosamine products might induce insulin resistance. Oral glucosamine may not be recommended while receiving Adequan injections due to the risk of developing blood-sugar problems.
Poor Fred...and poor Stacy. This must be so very hard on you. Stay strong. You're both in my thoughts and prayers.
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PaulaM
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Post by PaulaM on Aug 17, 2013 10:41:06 GMT -7
What exactly flared up? If speaking to a disc, then a "flare up" relates to the disc incurring something from tiny little tears to a big tear. The only way a disc self repairs is with limited movement and time. Giving a dog steroids and allowing them out of the crate is a dangerous idea….as they would feel good and move too much for the safety of a damaged disc. If speaking to an arthritis flare up, then crate rest is not a good idea for this type of problem, in fact moving around is a good idea. Did you have a chance to a Google search on "Vetalog" I did: www.drugs.com/vet/vetalog-parenteral-veterinary.htmlTriamcinolone acetonide is a synthetic fluorinated corticosteroid with approximately 8 times the potency of prednisone in animal models of inflammation. www.rxlist.com/nasacort-aq-drug/clinical-pharmacology.htm"IF" this is disc related and Freddie is only having a very mild first evidence of a disc problem with limping pain, the vet would be prudent to use a steroid for the shortest amount of time at the anti-inflammatory dose and then start a taper to test if swelling had been resolved. With mild symptoms it can be a challenge to pinpoint arthritis, muscle or disc problem and that is why vet said "possibly" Did Freddie display any other signs typical of IVDD episode …. shivering, arched back, tight tummy muscles, yelps?
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StevieLuv
Helpful Member
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Post by StevieLuv on Aug 17, 2013 10:46:03 GMT -7
The clinic I worked in used Adequan with varying degrees of success to help out with arthritis and other joint pain issues. Some dogs really did respond well - I don't think that there are any reasons to not do them - they shouldn't conflict with any of the other meds Fred has been given - it is not a steriod or an NSAID - the pain relief comes from the joints being eased of their arthritis burden. Crate rest is the safest thing to do - I know how much this blows, really I do! While he is on medications especially. It is possible that there was a tear in his new scar tissue and it just needs more time to heal - as for an entire 8 weeks - I really will have to leave that question to the more experienced Moderators. I sure hope that Fred bounces back quickly, and that he heals up just fine!
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Post by Stacy & Fred on Aug 17, 2013 11:31:34 GMT -7
Thanks again the vet isn't sure that it is IVDD but feels it best to treat it as if it were. I'm not even so sure.. he limps but only outside..and when he does it is more like a limp to not put weight on it..I don't know..he is in crate looking sad as ever..ugh..
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StevieLuv
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Conservative Treatment 3x. It really does work!
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Post by StevieLuv on Aug 17, 2013 18:56:53 GMT -7
I know how you feel - but Fred will thank you for looking out for his best interests...eventually Love and hugs and belly rubs, Feel better Freddie!
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