Welcome to Dodgerslist, what is your name, mine is Paula. I'm sorry to hear Joey is have a disc episode.
Many of us have found veterinary teaching hospitals to be excellent…better care than people get in hospitals!
You will want to also look at neighboring states to see if there are nearby board certified neuro (ACVIM) or ortho (ACVS) surgeons when searching directories:
www.acvim.org/ and
www.acvs.org/AnimalOwners/DiplomateDirectory/As damage to the spinal cord increases, there is a predictable stepwise deterioration of functions. When nerve healing begins, often it follows the reverse order.
1. Pain caused by the tearing disc & inflammation in the spinal cord
2. Wobbly walking, legs cross
3. Nails scuffing floor
4. Paws knuckle
5. Legs do not work (paralysis, dog is down)
6. Bladder control is lost
7. Tail wagging with joy is lost
8. Deep pain sensation, the last neuro function, a critical indicator for successful surgery.
Lots more good information in making decisions is also on this page:
www.dodgerslist.com/literature/healingsurgery.htmDependent the status of his neuro functions and if pain is fully under control he may also be able to heal with strict rest and meds.
When you can fill us in on these details so we are better able to discuss Joey with you:
-- Is there still currently pain - shivering, trembling, yelping when picked up or moved, reluctant/slow to move head or body, tight hard tummy?
-- What are the exact names of meds currently given, their doses in mgs and frequencies?
-- Currently can your dog move the legs at all? or wag the tail when you do some happy talk? The very, very lightest least aggressive range of motion and leg massage is necessary for paralyzed legs during conservative treatment. The information highlighted in PINK pertains to a dog who can't walk.
www.dodgerslist.com/literature/massagepassiveexercises.htm-- Do you find wet bedding or leaks on you when lifted up? That would show loss of badder control. Proof there is still control would be the sniff and pee test. You carry him to the potty place let him sniff and see if he releases urine…that would show he still has control to release urine in an appropriate place.
-- Eating and drinking OK?
-- Poops OK - normal color and firmness no dark or bright red blood?
