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Post by Cindy & Charli on Apr 29, 2021 5:17:36 GMT -7
Please do not edit this post. Make a new post if needed to update or correct information. Thanks!
[Original subject line:Charli Grace is down - CCraig ]
Charli Grace is a 4 yo spayed dachshund rescued at around 1 yr of age from a local puppy mill seizure. We fostered her along with two others for the rescue group - and foster failed.
My daughter took Charli with her when she got married and moved out last year - as Charli was HER dog!! (We have 6 dogs including Charli - 3 dachshunds and 3 Am Staff Terriers - all foster fails).
In June Charli presented with yelping and tenderness - we rushed to vet and she was diagnosed with IVDD - at that time they considered the "problem area" was in her back - but noted multiple "bogeys" (areas of concern). Crate rest, anit-inflamitory and pain meds did the trick and she was back to her old self in two months.
Around 4 PM last night [4/28] my daughter called me screaming to get to her house. She had taken Charli out to go potty - and Charli was walking across the yard sniffing then collapsed screaming.
I was there in less than 10 minutes and we had Charli at our vet less than 20 minutes from the moment of distress. (I have had MANY dachshunds over the years - and two with IVDD neck issues - so I know the drill)
When I arrived, Charli was laying on her side, rolling her eyes to see me, beating her tail on the ground, front legs stiff, back legs drawn up and spastically, semi-trying to kick (as if trying to roll over and get up). My son-in-law had already brought her crate out to where she was laying in they yard - but they were both afraid to pick Charli up. She did not yelp as i expected she would when I picked her up to transfer to crate for travel. I have not heard her yelp once since the initial incident.
The vet last night (my vet for both of my previous IVDD dogs) showed us the radiograph of the calcified disk in her neck - it is intact (not ruptured).
QUESTIONS
☆ 1 No outward indicators of pain. She is resting comfortably and not in distress. She is reluctant to move - but also is in paralysis - so unable to at the moment.
She is not ambulatory, unable to stand or bear weight.
she is laying on her side and is unable to stand, back does not appear arched
she is holding her head in one position and only moving her eyes
☐ Holding front or back leg flamingo style not wanting to bear weight - yes
☐Not their normal perky selves? Not at all
Charli is a hypochondriac - so she will DEFINITELY let you know if she is in pain. She appears "comfortable" and not fussy - she is just not going to move her head - and can't move her legs/body.
☆ 2 12.4 lbs
At 5pm last night - .25 ml injection of Rimadyl 50mg/ml
I also asked him to do a sub-q fluid bolus knowing she would likely not drink last night or this AM.
He included a shot of something - I didn't write it down and he didn't charge me (it's not on the invoice) for pain so that she wouldn't have to take any oral meds last night. He gave it 1/2 IM and 1/2 sub q to allow for longer relief. (this was in addition to the Rimadyl)
Starting this AM:
1.3 ml Buprenorphine .3mg/ml - 2x daily
1 tab Gabapentin 100 mg/tab - 2x daily
1/2 tab Rimadyl 25 mg/tab - 2x daily
1 tab Methocarbamol 500 mg - 2 x daily - but we are waiting on this until sensitivity test this afternoon - vet wanted to be able to tell if Charli was still having lower extremity sensation and didn't want this to mask her response - however - if she started to really show signs of tensing up and needed it - he wanted us to have it on hand.
He told me to get pepcid this AM and start that, too.
Dose schedule is:
Gabapentin 6 AM and 6 PM
Buprenorphine 7 AM and 7 PM
Rimadyl 8 AM and 8 PM to offer best relief - so will give Pepcid at 7:30 am/pm.
(This schedule is not what my vet prescribed - it is what I found most effective to feather the meds and not have a gap in pain coverage where they were all wearing off at once when I dealt with this with my other two dachshunds.)
[Moderator's Note. Please do not edit
12.4 lbs
Rimadyl injection 4/28
Rimadyl as of 4/29: 25mgs 2x/day for 1 days, LAST dose 4/29; switches to steroid
methocarbamol 500mgs tab: ?mgs 2x/day
gabapentin 100mg 2x/day
buprenorphine 0.3 mgs/mL: ?mg (?mL dose) 2x/day
Pepcid AC ?mg 2x/day ]
B.. Vet is holding off on steroids at this point to see if this cocktail of meds will work. He said he usually waits in case we opt for surgery - but surgery is not an option for us in this case - we did not opt for surgery with our other two either. Both were neck issues and that surgery is MUCH more complex. We do have a university vet hospital in our town that does the surgeries - and did consult with them on the first two - but knowing the risks and the odds - we have opted to not go that route.
🔘 date of a NSAID stop? At this point - all meds are prescribed for one week - so May 6. But we will be reevaluating this afternoon based on how Charli responds to meds today - and will adjust dosages and/or combo of meds as needed
☆ 3 Was not interested in eating this AM - which I expected - she is a picky eater and will go "off her feed" for the least little thing (100% NOT a dachshund thing!) - also reason I asked dr to do fluid bolus. She's a funny little duck about that stuff.
No poops or pees yet - but again - she will hold it for a LONG time (a day or two if it's raining outside - she will NOT go in the rain) - so we will give her 12 hours or so - and get with vet if no pee by noon today
☆ 4 Miniature Dachshund, Charli Grace, Cindy - and my daughter is Callie - Charli moved out with Callie when Callie got married - so lives with Callie now
☆ 5 Yes - calcified disk in neck
-- General DVM - but has been with me through many years and MANY dachshunds - two of which had neck disk issues - both lived through them - one survived for 9 years after total paralysis - regained all function (8 solid weeks of TOTAL inactivity) - the other was a chronic condition and we bobbed and weaved our way through a myriad of meds and magic tricks to keep him pain free and happy. They died at 17 and 16 years of age - and NOT from their neck issues.
☆ 6CONSERVATIVE treatment? 4/29/21
Super tried and true tips for setting up the recovery suite, the mattress and more! —> dodgerslist.com/2020/05/14/strict-rest-recovery-process/
☆ 7 Can your dog specifically sniff and squat ? Neither at this point. Bed is dry. She did not pee or poop when carried out at 6 - but also could not stand. I have a sling to take over to my daughter this AM for her to use.
☆ 8 She cannot move her front legs, doesn't seem to have control of her back legs (they move but can't hold her) and she does wag her tail
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Post by Romy & Frankie on Apr 29, 2021 6:58:07 GMT -7
Welcome to Dodgerslist. We are glad you’ve joined us all. We’ve got valuable information we’ve learned from the vets Dodgerslist consults with and our own experiences with IVDD since 2002 to share with you! Learn more about us and how we team up with veterinarians: dodgerslist.com/about-team-dodgerslist/
You are doing a truly good thing by caring for so many rescue dogs. As you know, with your other dogs with IVDD, you are doing the best thing for Charli by putting her on strict crate rest. It is 8 weeks of immobility enforced by crate rest that allows the disc to heal. We have information about crate rest and tips for setting up the recovery suite that may be helpful here: dodgerslist.com/2020/05/14/strict-rest-recovery-process
Neck discs are particularly painful. Holding her head in one position and moving only her eyes and not wanting to put weight on her leg are signs of pain. When you speak with your vet let him know that you are seeing these signs of pains. Pain meds may need to be re-adjusted.
It is possible that Charli has lost bladder control has she has not gone in 12 hours. It is also possible that she is holding it in because it is painful for her to move. The way we know if a dog has bladder control is the "sniff and pee" test. Carry Charli to an old pee spot and support her with a sling (not pressing on her belly) or your hands. If she sniffs and then releases urine she has bladder control". If she does not have bladder control you will need to help her empty her bladder by expressing her. You may have experience expressing because of your other dogs that had IVDD, but if not, or if you need a refresher, have your vet give you a hands-on lesson in expressing. Information on expressing is here:
Another thing to keep an eye on is her eating. All anti-inflammatories, like Rimadyl cause excess stomach acid which can result in serious stomach damage. I know that Charli is taking Pepcid AC to help protect her stomach, but sometimes that is not enough. If she continues being reluctant to eat, consider speaking to the vet about adding Sucralfate to the Pepcid AC. Pepcid AC reduces stomach acid while Sucralfate protects any damaged areas and actively assists in the healing process. Read more about sucralfate here:
To refresh your knowledge of conservative treatment we have a Conservative Roadmap for your fridge here:
At the MAIN WEBSITE, use the orange SEARCH bar feature to easily access additional IVDD information.
Please keep us up to date on Charli. We will be wanting to hear.
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Post by Cindy & Charli on Apr 30, 2021 4:06:37 GMT -7
4/29 - 1 day post-injury: * Charli would not eat her normal kibble softened, or cheese with meds that my daughter offered her before my arrival. (so the med schedule was blown at that point) * I arrived around 8 AM with "fresh food" that I feed one of my dogs and mixed it with warm water. Charli drank the broth and ate [fresh food] the food eagerly. I was able to get her meds in her via chicken flavored pill pockets (one is an 'apply to the gums' med - so that was already on board) * Callie reported that Charli never made a peep in her crate overnight. Charli never moved - other than following Callie with her eyes. Charli is crate trained (all of our animals are) and stays in her crate whenever Callie and her husband are gone from the house. She loves her crate - so that is a huge blessing - she is not fighting the containment. Point being - from the time they got home from the vet - Charli had not left her crate until I arrived at 8 AM - and she was dry, no pee, no poop - and not 'fussing' as if she needed to pee.
** FYI - she had been out going potty and had just peed and pooped when this happened on 4/28 - AND Charli is a master at 'holding it' in the event of inclement weather.  She will NOT go potty in the rain - and has held it up to 24 hours in the past. I wasn't completely concerned at this point - but I was certainly keeping it on my radar. Her belly was soft and I did not palpate a full bladder at this point.
* We used a sling I had from previous IVDD dogs and took her outside. She was [4/29▼] completely limp from the shoulders back. I was immediately aware of the difference of the weight of her body - she was not providing any "lift" - she was dead weight. There was zero movement in her legs - where on 4/28 there had stiff front legs and kicking (but spastic) hind legs. Even when I lowered Charli to the ground supporting her chest and hind legs, there was no "anticipatory" muscle/leg extension (like when a dog anticipates being put down and "reaches" for the ground). * She did not attempt to sniff. Her body just went limp to the ground. I supported her with the sling to see if she would put her legs under her. There was zero attempt to "right" herself or collect her legs under her. Her legs literally hung below her like a stuffed animal.
* I attempted a layman's neurologic exam by knuckling her paws - again, zero attempt to correct. She had no control of her legs or feet.
* I pinched all four paws (and web between toes) with my fingernails - and squeezed the paws as hard as I could (I'll admit - I'm a wuss and was probably not squeezing/pinching hard) - there was zero reaction - she didn't even try to pull her paws away. Charli HATES her feet to be touched and will typically immediately withdraw her paw from any attempt to hold it. * She did not pee - and I did not express her bladder at this point.
* I told my daughter I did not like what I was seeing and felt we needed to get her back to the vet.** ODD FACT - as I mentioned in first post - Charli is a hypochondriac. Since the initial 'screaming' when the injury occurred, Charli has not made a single noise. Not one whine, yelp, yodel (she has the goofiest sounds). My dad always said "the worst pain happens in silence" - and that was looping through my head as I was manipulating and observing at Charli. She wasn't shivering or wincing - but she wasn't "talking" to us either. * 10 AM - We dropped her [4/29] at our vet in her iso-kennel (a travel crate I bought many years ago with my first IVDD dog - it's very heavy-duty - and you can remove the top with some easy to operate 'quick release' big latches instead of the 4,000 screws most have - he actually did his whole 8 weeks in that kennel). The vet likes it because Charli can just stay in that and they don't have to move her - but can get to her by removing the top - or just keep the top off to observe her. She was padded up for support and to keep her from jostling around.
* We gave all of the info listed above along with the fact that as we were transferring her to the iso-kennel, she seemed to have a moment of involuntary head tremors. We noticed it twice. It was not a seizure (have dealt with those before), but just a bit of mild thrashing. Only her head moved - and it wasn't violent - just odd. I also mentioned that I didn't believe the meds were keeping her pain free - and that I would like to switch her to the steroids and hit her with everything we could to get her pain under control - and give her the best hope at recovery. I reiterated that we were NOT going surgical with this situation - so the vet would not worry about administering steroids to a surgical candidate. (He was in emergency surgery at the time - so this was all written down by vet tech.) * 2:30 PM - my daughter called to check on Charli - vet was in ANOTHER ER surgery (it has been a WEEK for our rescue group, too!) - but they said Charli was resting comfortably and vet would call when he was out of surgery. They had started her on IV fluids upon arrival in anticipation of starting new meds and for support.
* 4:40 PM - vet calls me (I am still Charli's "owner of record") -
* He is as stoic as I am trying to be for my daughter - but I hear what he's not saying. He shares my concern over her lack of improvement and seeming (although slight) decline. He did say she was still reactive to the hemostat pinch [has DPS] - so that was good news. (I truly wasn't pinching hard enough). * He agrees that we will start her on steroids after I assure him again that we are NOT going surgical. I explained my reasons for not going surgical - and he agreed - but just wanted to be sure I was sure. * He said they did express Charli's bladder, but that it wasn't full and he did think she was just holding it at this point. He said it was easy to express - but that she did still seem to have control.
* I told him that I was extremely concerned that there was NO change in 24 hours (at the point of the phone call) - and he shared my concern. I asked him how long it might take the steroids to affect some change as we are now in uncharted territory with my experiences (both of my other IVDD dogs showed some improvement and were ambulatory (in that they could bear weight and keep paws righted) to some degree within 12 hours - and one had been totally paralyzed just like Charli). He felt that we could reevaluate on 5/3 (4 days later) and make adjustments as needed at that point.
* Vet said he saw the "head thing" several times - and he thinks it is just Charli trying to adjust herself - but nothing is moving. He agreed it was not a seizure.* I told him I felt she was still experiencing pain - and he [vet] agreed to up her pain meds (I did not ask how much - nor did I ask what dose he would give steroids at this point - I will get that info today when we pick her up). * We agreed to leave Charli with them for the next 24 hours on IV as they observed and managed her pain and medications. * We will pick her up 4/30 (today - 2 days post-injury) - and they will show my daughter how to express Charli's bladder. It will give us overnight to see if we feel she is pain-free = and we can call 5/1 (tomorrow, Saturday) if we feel she is still in pain and we need to adjust more. ** EMOTIONAL DUMP**
I have to admit I am very guarded about this situation. I am a realist - and I know what I am seeing - and what I'm not seeing. My daughter made the comment "When Charli gets over this..." and I stopped her and said "She will NOT ever 'get over' this - she will hopefully regain use of her legs - and maybe even return to her old self - but she is a dog with a jacked-up back - and she will live with that for the rest of her life - and YOU will have to manage that even more carefully than before!" My daughter is 26 - and a Kindergarten teacher - and she's my daughter - she has lived through over 100 foster dogs in her life - 8 years of that was exclusively dachshund rescue - she's lived through our two personal IVDD dogs - and our "Old Grandma" dachshund that had 5 different belly surgeries to remove foreign objects - she's lived through Chloe's leg surgeries - she's seen me do stupid crazy things to save canine lives - but she's seen it all as a daughter - not as their "mom" - not as the one staying up all night - expressing bladders - having a breakdown at 2 AM, and then pulling it together because tears won't fix it.
I can tell you the hardest thing I've ever done is having to watch my "baby girl" go through this. To not be able to hide behind the "it'll be okay" facade I could always throw out before. ...but I will not lie to her.
I have yet to fall apart. I don't have that luxury. Both Callie and her husband (God bless his sweet soul) have had a rough time with this - and have had their breakdowns over it.
Charli is loved beyond crazy. We joke that Callie's husband married Callie so that he could keep Charli in his life. He calls her "Looney Tunes" - and she can't wait for him to get home and lay down on the couch so she can run up the ramp and wrap herself around his neck like a scarf. They are precious together.
Charli was part of a puppy mill seizure - our rescue took in 11 of the dogs - all were in horrific condition - Charli weighed less than7 pounds and was a walking skeleton. When we arrived to pick up our "fosters" from the holding area - Callie went straight to Charli's crate - she opened the door and that terrified skeleton leapt straight into Callie's arms. The lady said "Take that one!! She won't let anyone touch her!!" - and Charli has never been apart from Callie since.
Hi, Romy -
Thank you for the information! Yes - I have done this a time or two - but my daughter has only experienced it from the periphery - I have printed out the info for her to reference. Very helpful to have the roadmap for her fridge! Thanks so much!
As for bladder control - Charli is notorious for "holding it" - and we knew she had just peed immediately before the incident on 4/28 around 4 pm. Vet did express her bladder mid-day or so on 4/29 and said he didn't think she had lost control at this point.We took her back to vet yesterday morning (4/29) and are opting to change to steroid treatment (what we did with my other two IVDD dogs). I need to ask about the "flush" period - as he acted like he was going to start the steroids immediately when I talked to him around 4:40 or so on 4/29. This would have been about 24 hours from her first dose of Rimadyl - but only 8 hours since her [Rimadyl] 2nd dose.As for eating - she is NOT a card-carrying dachshund in this area! She is a super picky eater. She does love the "fresh food" i have to feed one of my Staffies - and so I brought a supply of that to Callie to have on hand for her to eat. She did eat that for me on 4/29 AM.
Thank you, again, for your time and suggestions! I so appreciate your help!
-Cindy |
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PaulaM
Moderator. 
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,528
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Post by PaulaM on Apr 30, 2021 8:36:11 GMT -7
Cindy, very excellent getting Charli to the vet to be monitored and pain meds adjusted. As you are aware once nerve damage occurs, it can take months for self repair. The action of a steroid IF, if used within hours of nerve damage, it could show reversal signs in a matter of hours. I have witnessed such with my own dog! Nerve diminishment reversed when steroid used 2 hrs after diminishment. With it now being days/many, many hours from date of 4/28 4pm all four legs paralyzed (not moving), it is a matter of time to see what Charli's body can do to self heal nerve damage. So do not give up hope, but be realistic on having patience with the body's slowest healing department - nerve healing. Most general DVM's are not able to correctly identify deep pain sensation. DPS signs could be as subtle as pupil dilation. Or it can be misleading when there is a reflexive withdraws of the limb. So likely you will not be able to correctly ID, best to avoid doing the pinch thing at all. Only trust the word about this very tricky to identify DPS from a neuro (ACVIM) or ortho (ACVS). What is your vet's credentials who did the hemostat pinch test? DVM or neuro (ACVIM) or ortho (ACVS) With the intended switch to the other class of anti-inflammatory drugs, a steroid, do confirm GI protection. Both Pepcid AC plus Sucralfate should be on board with emergencies that do not allow a 5-7 day washout from the non-steroid NSAID Rimadyl before the start of a steroid such as prednisone, dexamethasone, etc. **  We are kinda lost and find it difficult to give good comment when the medication list is incomplete. When you have a chance, would you provide missing information in PINK about dose in mgs. Very much appreciate it. 12.4 lbs Rimadyl injection 4/28 Rimadyl as of 4/29: 25mgs 2x/day. date of last dose given?methocarbamol 500mgs tab: ?mgs 2x/day gabapentin 100mg 2x/day buprenorphine 0.3 mgs/mL: ?mg (?mL dose) 2x/day Pepcid AC ?mg 2x/day Cindy, I might add to avoid any more changing of foods while on anti-inflammatory drugs. Now that Charlie is on fresh, stay the course. GI tract issues can happen with use of any anti-inflammatory drug. There should be no confusion if you would see red flag signs — is it just benign food change or serious related prednisone use. RED FLAG SIGNS: lip licking of nausea, not eating, vomit, diarrhea leading to serious bleeding ulcers, red or black blood in stool
Looking forward to your next update that Charli is fully comfortable round the clock, dose to dose meds. |
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Post by Cindy & Charli on May 1, 2021 14:51:57 GMT -7
missing information:
Rimadyl 4/29 AM dose was last one given (med discontinued on 4/29)
methocarbamol Dose is 1/4 tablet (so 125 mgs) 2x day
buprenorphine\2x/day - okay - I'm not a metric genius - so if my math skills from 400 years ago are right - she is getting a .1cc dose of a .3mg/ml med - so she is getting .03 mg per dose (I think)
Pepcid AC 5 mg - 1/4 tablet
5/1 UPDATE on Charli -
* Rimadyl has been stopped - last dose was 4/29 AM
* Current meds are:
12.4 lbs
Methocarbamol 500mgs tab: 1/4 tab 2x/day (125 mg 2x day) - 1st dose given 4/30 AM
Gabapentin 100mg capsules 2x/day (100 mg 2x day)
Buprenorphine 0.3 mgs/mL: .1cc 2x day (.03mg dose - I think)
Pepcid AC 1/4 tab 2x/day (5 mg 2x day)
Prednisone 20 mg tab - 1/2 tab 1x day (give at night) (10 mg day) (no taper at this point)
*Pred started 4/29 PM - no washout from Rimadyl - did not ask about Sucralfate - and vet was gone when I got there - will address on Monday
✙CBD Oil - 125 mg/ml - (1 ml 2x day)
[Moderator's Note. Please do not edit
12.4 lbs / 5.62 kg
Rimadyl injection 4/28
Rimadyl as of 4/29: 25mgs 2x/day for 1 day, LAST dose 4/29; switches to steroid
prednisone as of 4/29. 20mg tab: 10mgs 1x/day for ? days, then test taper: _pain / _neuro
methocarbamol 500mgs tab: 125mgs 2x/day as of 4/30
gabapentin 100mg 2x/day
buprenorphine 0.3 mgs/mL: 0.3mgs (1mL dose) 2x/day
Pepcid AC 5mg 2x/day
✙CBD Oil prescribed for a friend's dog.
✙Entyce (capromorelin oral solution) appetite stimulant ]
* Picked Charli up from vet on 4/30 at 2 PM
* Dr had done a hydrotherapy of sorts during her stay by putting her in water to see if she would try to use her legs with some support and the water to create some buoyancy - he said she made the slightest attempts to put her feet under her - but her head would have gone under without support - encouraged us to do this daily at home being sure to keep her head and body supported.
* She did urinate on her own once while at vet - but he showed us how to express her bladder and wanted at least a couple of good "pees" a day or we needed to express her
* She has peed on her own since being home - we have not had to express her at this point
* She was VERY excited to see Callie when they brought Charli into the exam room - and she was making valiant efforts to push/pull herself towards callie - it was the tiniest of movements - but she was generating a force and was not just limp as she had been the day before.
* She came home about 3 PM and seemed okay - and just happy to be home - I had a board meeting and left to attend that - was gone until after 5 pm - Callie was with Charli and everything seemed okay (in hindsight - I think Charli was just experiencing an adrenaline rush from being home)
* At some point during this time Charli peed on her own without being expressed.
* Callie called at 5:45 and sent me a video of a very bizarre head pop/mechanical motion from Charli that looked really awful and reminded me of the "death dance" you sometimes see in animals with a brain injury. I immediately called our vet - (who was gone - he also does farm calls - there are two vets at the practice - one is battling cancer that sprung up two months ago - and everyone is reeling and trying to keep up - I don't want it to sound like my vet is not attentive at all). I sent the vid to the tech who forwarded it on - called me back and said doc thought it was just Charli wanting to be held. First time I have ever disagreed totally with my vet...but we got Charli out of the crate and held her - and she momentarily (long enough for me to text back) calmed down.
* Tried to feed her at 6:30 and she wouldn't eat - not her Nom Nom - not the scrambled egg that is ALWAYS her favorite treat - nothing - wouldn't drink, either.
* We then tried the pill pocket that she also loves with her Pepcid in anticipation of 7 PM meds - nothing doing - wouldn't take it - decided to call vet and get liquid meds (which I should have done in the first place - but she had been taking meds so well - and vet said she ate fine for them...
* I call vet back to get ER number (as they are now closed) - but since only one vet is "working" they gave the Texas A&M Vet Hospital ER number. They were no help. We'll leave it at that.
* I consulted our Rescue vet about crushing the pills and putting them in liquid to administer with a syringe - sent her pics of bottles and pills - she said it would be fine - but I should try to get liquid meds in the AM from my vet.
* I got all meds in Charli - although she was not happy with me. It was 7:30.
* We went home - and Callie put Charli "to bed".
* At 8:45ish I started getting panic texts from Callie that Charli was doing "that head thing" again - clacking her teeth together, mechanical jerking of her head (think someone with Parkinsons - very jerky, disconnected movements) - it was continual - and awful - and I didn't know what to tell her other than hold her as the vet suggested.
* At 7 AM this morning - I started making text contact with my "rescue tribe" and my vet's office and by 8 AM had rounded up CBD oil, laser therapy rental (will get Monday), liquid meds (Pred and Gab), an acupuncture vet that will come to our house (on Sunday), a rice hull heat wrap, and ✙Entyce, along with a can of holistic "Tripe" dog food that "did the trick" for my friend who went through this last May with her dog. (GROSS on the "Tripe" - but if it will work and she will eat SOMETHING - I don't care! I did see your note, PaulaM, on not changing her food - but I seriously need her to eat something. She is picky - so we factor that in, as well.)
* Vet (and I) are not terribly concerned yet with Charli's lack of eating (I will be if she won't eat tonight) - Charli routinely goes "off her feed" for a day or so - I will start the entyce tonight, if I can't get her to eat.
* Gave all meds this AM at 8:00 - she still seemed painful to me an hour later
* Vet realized that he had told us to hold off on Metho - so considered that as a "raise in pain meds" to add to the other 3 meds - her first dose of that was 4/30 AM
* Gave CBD oil at 10:00 - I have never used this - but considering it was prescribed to my friend's dog by her vet - I was willing to go off script.
* At 11:30 I returned to Callie's house - and Charli seemed relaxed and her face looked "soft" for the first time since 4/28!!!!
* Charli has not done the jaw clack/head bob thing all afternoon
* Callie did hydrotherapy with Charli around 3 PM - and said Charli got all four feet under herself - but still couldn't support herself - but Callie could feel Charli working her muscles to get collected and hold herself up
* Will return at 7 PM to try to feed, give Pepcid
* At 7:30 - will do meds for the night - will be first dose of liquid meds - but they are same mgs
* Will have Callie give CBD oil again, as well, at 9:30
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PaulaM
Moderator.
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,528
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Post by PaulaM on May 1, 2021 16:33:50 GMT -7
Cindy, the single most important part of conservative care is the 100% STRICT rest for the early healing disc. STRICT means: ◼︎ no water therapy◼︎No laps ◼︎no couches ◼︎no baths ◼︎no sleeping with you ◼︎No chiro therapy whys: dodgerslist.com/2020/04/22/chiropractic/◼︎No dragging or meandering at potty times. ◼︎No PT for conservative dogs during 8 weeks to heal disc ◼︎At home laser or acupuncture for severe neuro damage is best. ◼︎ Transports are always a risk to the disc of too much movement. Vet visits must be weighed risk vs. benefit for dogs with little to mild neuro diminishment. ◼︎ Avoid dangerous detours. Follow the "Roadmap." Tape it to your fridge. D/L and print out: dodgerslist.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Roadmap-for-Fridge.pdf Dr. Thomas, Neurology (ACVIM) addresses veterianrians explaining why crating is the single most important care for a disc episode: Please let us know Charli has dodged a bullet and has not suffered a setback in his early healing disc. Let us know Charlie is back with STRICT rest, no PT, no water/hydro therapy. Only out of the Recovery Suite for potty time and then only the very fewest of footsteps. Anxiously waiting that Charlie is ok |
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Post by Cindy & Charli on May 1, 2021 18:40:57 GMT -7
We will discontinue water therapy.
Charli seems to be VERY slightly improved every time I see her - just got back from helping with meds - and she seemed comfortable and not painful when I got there.
I don't think she has suffered a set back at this point.
Both laser and acupuncture will be done at home - so no transporting necessary.
Thank you!
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PaulaM
Moderator.
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,528
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Post by PaulaM on May 1, 2021 19:12:07 GMT -7
Cindy, sorry Charli is having a time of it. Especially the mysterious head thing. Are you able to upload video to youtube so we can see? Be aware gabapentin is very bitter. Better to NOT crush in water! Once a dog gets a taste they will be long time not trusting you with meds. Dangerous for animals is xylitol. Human pharmacies use Xylitol in liquid gabapentin for humans. Best is to have your vet specifically write the Rx for compounded gabapentin with warning: No Xylitol! Still you will likely need to double check again with pharmacist that no xylitol was used as the sweetener as there will be no indication on the bottle. If liquid gabapentin is compounded by a vet pharmacy it should contain a safe-for-dogs sweetner. With a paralyzed dog may be better to NOT used rice wrap. They can't feel, can't move away if too warm. Scalded/burned skin can happen. Better is a warmed blankie from the dryer. A nice 100% synthetic fleece blankie is warming about the neck but won't burn skin. Just so you know when on the big gun meds used with IVDD, CBD effects should be considered as whether to be used. Please read and consider things with your own vet: dodgerslist.com/2020/02/24/devices-supplements/%E2%80%8B?highlight=CDB%20oilIt can save you time in writing things out. We have Charli's history in your past posts which we always read first before replying. We always look forward to reading what you write about that is currently happening. PILLING ideas
Three treat method Put the pill into the well of a small mashed banana ball, a cream cheese ball, liverwurst ball, Gerber Lil' meat sticks, or inside of a sticky small marshmallow and sealed completely so no taste is on the exterior. Use the three treat method. Prepare 2 treats with no meds inside PLUS the med ball. Give plain treat while holding med ball in front of eyes. The idea is your dog will be greedy after the first treat to get the 2nd. Immediately hold the 3rd plain treat so she will hurry to swallow the med ball to get to treat It can take Rimadyl 5-7 days before it leaves the body. In the meantime both Rimadyl and Prednisone are in the body. Please advocate for adding prescription SUCRALFATE to the Pepcid AC. Charli does not need another problem of bleeding ulcers to deal with on top of everything else. Hope tomorrow brings good news of all pain in control, back to eating and less of that head thing going on which can't be good for the neck disc. |
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Post by Cindy & Charli on May 1, 2021 21:05:21 GMT -7
Liquid Gabapentin is vet dispensed - no xylitol (I am very aware of dangers of xylitol)
I knew that the crushed Gabapentin would be bitter (have had to do this before) - but thought it better than wrangling Charli's head. Now we have the liquid [gabapentin] - so not a problem.
The Methocarbamol and Pepcid still have to be crushed and put in liquid (I use beef bone broth).
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PaulaM
Moderator.
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,528
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Post by PaulaM on May 1, 2021 22:01:44 GMT -7
Thanks, the video of the head thing is a lot of movement during a neck disc epidode. Hope your vet with some research with colleagues might have an answer to help Charli.
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Post by Cindy & Charli on May 3, 2021 5:50:01 GMT -7
5/3 Update:
* Charli is peeing on her own
* finally ate about 1 T of wet food mixed with water 5/2 PM
* ate 1 T of wet food + 1/2 t of pumpkin + 1 T of water 5/3 AM
* drank about 3 T of water 5/3 AM (first water on her own)
* is pushing herself with her hind legs in her crate - but is not able to bear weight at all when going out to potty (use sling - and she does "reach" for the ground more with back legs than front - front will still knuckle over - as will back - but seems to have more "strength" or push in her hind legs - we are talking minuscule progress - but it is in the right direction!!
* is showing no signs of pain or discomfort
* have not seen head bob situation since 5/1 - really wondering if it wasn't an acid reflux situation after watching it several times - although still looks neuro to me in some ways
Hoping to get laser therapy started today.
Have vet visit via phone today to reassess meds, progress, and plan for moving forward.
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PaulaM
Moderator.
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,528
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Post by PaulaM on May 3, 2021 7:53:13 GMT -7
Cindy, things are, indeed, going in the right direction for Charli !!! Your vet should be very pleased. Your vet will have to make a guess as to when she believes all painful swelling in the cord might be gone. The begin of the pred taper is how that is proved along with a full stop of pain meds (or backing off pain meds).
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Post by Cindy & Charli on May 5, 2021 7:37:16 GMT -7
UPDATE on Charli Grace - 5/5/21 -
Today at 4 PM marks ONE WEEK since injury.
* Current meds are:
12.4 lbs
Methocarbamol 500mgs tab: 1/4 tab 2x/day (125 mg 2x day) - 1st dose given 4/30 AM
Gabapentin 100mg capsules 2x/day (100 mg 2x day)
Pepcid AC 1/4 tab 2x/day (5 mg 2x day)
Prednisone 20 mg tab - 1/2 tab 1x day (give at night) (10 mg day) (no taper at this point)
*Pred started 4/29 PM - no washout from Rimadyl)
CBD Oil - 125 mg/ml - (1 ml 2x day)
[Moderator's Note. Please do not edit
12.4 lbs / 5.62 kg
Rimadyl injection 4/28
Rimadyl as of 4/29: 25mgs 2x/day for 1 day, LAST dose 4/29; switches to steroid
prednisone as of 4/29. 20mg tab: 10mgs 1x/day for ? days, then test taper: _pain / _neuro
methocarbamol 500mgs tab: 125mgs 2x/day as of 4/30
gabapentin 100mg 2x/day
Pepcid AC 5mg 2x/day
CBD Oil prescribed for a friend's dog. ]
Discontinued:
Buprenorphine 0.3 mgs/mL: .1cc 2x day (.03mg dose - I think) - last dose 5/3/21 PM
She had been dispensed liquid Gab and Pred on 5/1, and I had been dissolving other pills in bone broth as she had stopped taking pills
As of 5/4/21 PM she is back on all pills (taking them thinly wrapped in Pill Pockets - which she prefers over cheese). CBD oil is mixed in with her wet food and she is eating well.
She is peeing when taken outside.
She has not pooped since 4/28.
She had acupuncture on 5/2 - and responded well.
She had laser therapy treatment 5/4 and tolerated well - so we have rented the machine and she will get 4 minutes of therapy per night for the next two weeks - then it will taper.
Her meds are dispensed through 5/9 - with no taper on the pred at the moment.
Waiting to hear back from primary vet as to when he wants to see her to reassess and adjust meds.
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PaulaM
Moderator.
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,528
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Post by PaulaM on May 5, 2021 8:05:50 GMT -7
Cindy, the not pooping now for 9 days is quite concerning. The longer poop remains in the digestive tube the dryer it becomes (constipation) as the intestine's job is to absorb. Was the 1 TBS May 3 wet food your fresh food which included 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin ? -- What size portions has she been eating since 5/3? -- What are the ingredients of the fresh food? Will the regular vet be seeing her via a home visit? Mostly meds are adjusted via phone. As long as she is comfortable, the wait is on the vet to make a guess as to when the pred taper test will begin. Until pred tapers, it can't be known if all swelling is gone, if another course is needed. As long as pain is in control, and there are no new set backs/regression in neuro functions, the wait is on the date for a pred taper. Pred's only job is to resolve painfull swelling in the cord. Nerves heal on their own, the disc heals on its own. As soon as Charli is off all meds (proof of no spinal cord swelling), then some very, very light least aggressive range of motion/massage can be started for her legs. Hopefully, your vet will give a guess on a date for pred taper. It may take somewhere in the range of 7 to 30 days (comprised of one or more pred courses) before all spinal cord swelling is gone. Rule of thumb for the taper test for pain/neuro Pain/incrased neuro issues = another course of anti-inflammatory + all pain meds back on board + Pepcid AC.
No Pain/ no increased neuro issues= complete the pred taper...finish out the 8 weeks of crate rest for the disc to heal. |
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Post by Cindy & Charli on May 5, 2021 11:54:55 GMT -7
Thank you, Paula! The "wet food" is the canned tripe (it is a dog food) mentioned above. Was a referral from fellow rescue mom whose dachshund went through back surgery last April - and refused to eat post op. We will keep feeding her the canned tripe and slowly move her back to the Nom Nom. I'm not at home right now - so can't give you contents on either food. www.NomNomNow.com will give you Nom Nom's ingredients, I believe. I will get those for you later as well. Portions of canned food is 2 level measuring tablespoons of wet food, 2 level measuring tablespoons of water and 1/2 measuring teaspoon of pumpkin 2x daily. She is also now eating her favorite - 1/4 slices of cucumber. Last night she ate roughly 12 of the 1/4 slices (about 3 whole slices - thin sliced) as per my daughter. I did see your highlight on the pred for # of days - we do not have a taper date on that at the moment. Just keep giving it to her once a day until vet feels it's time to taper. Thank you for your help! -Cindy |
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Post by Romy & Frankie on May 5, 2021 13:40:23 GMT -7
Having fresh vegetables, like the cucumber may also help with her constipation. My dog loved carrots which are high in fiber. You could give that a try if you haven't already.
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Post by Cindy & Charli on May 5, 2021 19:52:48 GMT -7
SHE POOPED!!!!
The things dog parents (and dog grandparents) get excited about!!!
...and we have tried carrots - she did not like them! All of my dogs love carrots and won't eat cucumbers - go figure!!
She has had an amazing day. My spirits are SO lifted compared to 4 days ago!!
Have a blessed night, everyone!
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PaulaM
Moderator.
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,528
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Post by PaulaM on May 6, 2021 7:40:40 GMT -7
Good news indeed, what a relief!! Was the poop hard or normal?
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Post by Cindy & Charli on May 9, 2021 3:46:13 GMT -7
[Cindy & Charli on May 6, 2021 at 10:20am:]
Hi, PaulaM - it was normal.
The "start" of it looked like her normal stool...the end was softer - but still formed and not at all "soft serve" - which would make sense with all of the water, cucumbers and pumpkin we've been feeding her.
UPDATE: 5/8/21
Charli went to the vet today for a follow up and to adjust meds if/as needed.
Vet was VERY encouraged with Charli's progress.
Charli is currently:
* ALWAYS correcting left hind foot placement of
* sometimes correcting right front foot placement of
* will scoot herself around by pushing with hind legs
* is no longer showing reluctance to move her head to the right (on her own - vet did not manipulate)
* able to hold head up on her own
* in control of bladder and bowels (has had daily bowel movements when taken outside to potty)
* seemingly happy and relaxed
* transitioned back to her kibble softened in water and mixed with pumpkin
* takes all medication without protest (pills in pill pockets)
* getting daily laser therapy treatments
* getting acupuncture 2 x per week
* will start PEMF mat therapy 5/9/21
Charli cannot:
* pull herself with her front legs
* bear any weight in a standing position
Meds are:
Methocarbamol 500mgs tab: 1/4 tab 2x/day (125 mg 2x day) **LAST DOSE will be 5/10/21 AM**
Gabapentin 100mg capsules 2x/day (100 mg 2x day)
Pepcid AC 1/4 tab 2x/day (5 mg 2x day)
Prednisone 20 mg tab - 1/2 tab 1x day (give at night) (10 mg day) (still no taper at this point)
CBD Oil - 125 mg/ml - (1 ml 2x day)
[Moderator's Note. Please do not edit
12.4 lbs / 5.62 kg
Rimadyl injection 4/28
Rimadyl as of 4/29: 25mgs 2x/day for 1 day, LAST dose 4/29
prednisone as of 4/29. 20mg tab: 10mgs 1x/day as of 5/9: 9+? days, then test taper: _pain / _neuro
5/8 back legs: pushing, not knuckling, not using front legs
methocarbamol 500mgs tab: 125mgs 2x/day; last dose 5/10
gabapentin 100mg 2x/day
Pepcid AC 5mg 2x/day
CBD Oil prescribed for a friend's dog. ]
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PaulaM
Moderator.
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,528
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Post by PaulaM on May 9, 2021 8:07:46 GMT -7
Wonderful to read about Charli's body self healing back leg nerve function. This is a good indicator of the path of healing to come.
The remaining question would be is all painful swelling in the spinal cord actually gone now? No one can know this answer. No one can know, until there is a test for pain prednisone taper. The only job pred has is to reduce painful inflammation. The body self repairs the damaged disc and damaged nerves. No one wants a dog on pred any bit longer past all swelling to be gone. Prednisone carries adverse side effects. The pred benefit outweighs the risks when protecting the spinal cord against swollen tissue. This is why many vets make their guess at a 7- or a 14-day course of pred and give the directions for how to taper. What reason did the vet give for not making a guess?
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Post by Cindy & Charli on May 11, 2021 20:03:16 GMT -7
A bit of a set back for Charli.
Methocarbamol stopped on 5/9/21 AM (last dose) - originally stated 5/10/21 would be last dose - a mistake - pills ran out on 5/9/21.
by 5/10/21 at noon, she had "sad eyes" (her dead giveaway for pain) and was shivering, not wanting to move her head at all and not moving her feet to push herself, not wagging her tail and very tense and stiff overall - not relaxed and comfortable as she had been the previous several days.
Obviously feeling pain.
I have a supply of Methocarbamol from other cases - so I called vet - told him I was starting her back on it - had some on hand to give her immediately - but wanted to get her prescription refilled. He agreed.
Restart of Methocarbamol 500mgs tab: 1/4 tab 2x/day (125 mg 2x day) on 5/11/21 at noon - then on regular 6 PM / 6 AM time schedule.
Charli still appeared to be uncomfortable 5/11/21 - her "Dad" was home from work taking care of her and called me to come over around 11:15 AM (she will potty for me - but not for him and he thought she was uncomfortable because she needed to potty)
I could clearly see she was still in obvious pain when I arrived - so I gave her a Gabapentin (100 MG capsule) straightaway (this had been discussed with vet at last visit - that more could be given if we had breakthrough pain at any point). Then took her potty - she both peed and pooped - but did not use her back legs as she had been doing in prior days.
Her acupuncture that was scheduled for 5/9/21 was postponed to today 5/11/21 at 4:30. She was already seeming a bit less painful when the doctor arrived for treatment. Treatment went well.
By 8:30 tonight 5/9/21, she was back to resting comfortably in her crate.
Obviously she still has pain - and the meds are keeping it at bay - although we did get behind it there for a bit.
Plan is to continue all meds at the following rate:
✙Methocarbamol 500mgs tab: 1/4 tab 2x/day (125 mg 2x day)
Gabapentin 100mg capsules 2x/day (100 mg 2x day)
Pepcid AC 1/4 tab 2x/day (5 mg 2x day)
Prednisone 20 mg tab - 1/2 tab 1x day (give at night) (10 mg day) (no taper at this point)
CBD Oil - 125 mg/ml - (1 ml 2x day)
[Moderator's Note. Please do not edit
12.4 lbs / 5.62 kg
Rimadyl injection 4/28
Rimadyl as of 4/29: 25mgs 2x/day for 1 day, LAST dose 4/29
prednisone as of 4/29. 20mg tab: 10mgs 1x/day as of 5/11: 14+ TBA days, then test taper: √5/10 pain / _neuro
5/8 back legs: pushing, not knuckling, not using front legs
✙methocarbamol 500mgs tab: 125mgs 2x/day; last dose 5/9
gabapentin 100mg 2x/day
Pepcid AC 5mg 2x/day
CBD Oil prescribed for a friend's dog. ]
I think vet was hoping we could drop the Methocarbamol - and if she continued to do well with no breakthrough of pain - then consider weaning off the rest of the meds - but that did not happen.
We will stay this course for a bit longer.
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PaulaM
Moderator.
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,528
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Post by PaulaM on May 11, 2021 20:37:18 GMT -7
It usually takes in the range of 7-30 days up on the anti-inflammatory dose level of prednisone to get rid of all painful swelling. Glad to hear Charli is back in good comfort from pain.
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Post by Cindy & Charli on May 23, 2021 5:09:57 GMT -7
UPDATE on Charli Grace - She is:
* using her hind legs with proper paw placement and seems to have good strength and "push"
* can support her weight when placed on all four feet in a standing position (will and wants to eat her food this way)
* has occasionally pushed herself to standing and taken a few steps on potty breaks - but is unstable (and supported)
* does not have placement control of her front legs other than she can move them (looks like a baby giraffe when she tries to walk)
* does not have consistent proper paw placement in her front feet at this time
* has regained much of her typically happy, quirky personality and vocalization (I think someone at the puppy mill tried to de-bark her, she has the most bizzare yodeling, raspy "woo-woo" bark)
She has:
* continued with laser therapy - first two weeks was daily treatments - now we are at every 3rd day
* continued with acupuncture weekly
As of 5/20, meds are:
Gabapentin 100mg capsules 2x/day (100 mg 2x day)
Pepcid AC 1/4 tab 2x/day (5 mg 2x day)
CBD Oil - 125 mg/ml - (1 ml 2x day)
▼Prednisone 20 mg tab - NOW REDUCED TO
1/4 tab 1x day (give at night) (5 mg day) - this will be done for one week as per vet
Methocarbamol has been stopped as of 5/20
[Moderator's Note. Please do not edit
12.4 lbs / 5.62 kg
Rimadyl injection 4/28
Rimadyl as of 4/29: 25mgs 2x/day for 1 day, LAST dose 4/29, no washout days
prednisone as of 4/29 : 10mgs 1x/day for 22 days; then ▼5/21 re-test taper: _ pain / _neuro
5/8 back legs: pushing, not knuckling, not using front legs
5/21 front legs move- paws knuckle
gabapentin 100mg 2x/day
Pepcid AC 5mg 2x/day ]
As of this morning (5/23) there have been no indicators of pain or discomfort since stopping the Methocarbamol and reducing the Pred.
5/26 will mark 4 weeks since going down (4/28). We are VERY encouraged by her progress to this point - especially remembering that on 4/29, she was completely paralyzed and total dead weight in our hands.
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Marjorie
Moderator~ 
Member since 2011. Surgery & Conservative
Posts: 5,722 
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Post by Marjorie on May 23, 2021 5:57:44 GMT -7
You have every reason to be encouraged by Charli's progress, Cindy. To see this much improvement in such a short time is indeed wonderful. Often times, there is no or very little improvement seen during the 8 weeks of conservative care. To see such improvement so soon bodes very well for continuing improvement ahead.
And so good to hear that no pain has returned now that Prednisone has started to taper and Methocarbamol has been stopped. Has the vet given you any indication as to when the Gabapentin will also be tapered or stopped? Having pain meds on board makes it difficult for you to determine whether there is still swelling/pain and therefore still a need for all meds for a bit longer.
Keep up the good work with Charli and will continue to keep us updated. Healing prayers for Charli.
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Post by Cindy & Charli on May 23, 2021 8:39:10 GMT -7
Thank you, Marjorie! Having been here with 2 other dachshunds over the years - we are so thrilled to see Charli make such strong progress (but we are keeping her on crate rest lock down, for sure!)
Our other two were also quad paralysis - but both stood within 12 hours. However, their progress from that point forward was much slower than what Charli has experienced.
I am a firm believer that the acupuncture and laser therapy together with the CBD oil have been MAJOR factors in her recovery to this point. She is also a few years younger (she is 4 - they were 7 and 10) - and a much more bubbly personality to begin with.
They were on basically the same "cocktail" of meds that Charli is taking. We did not know about Pepcid for those two. I'm sure that makes a big difference in "feeling" better when your tummy isn't hurting!
The vet asked me to check in with him on 5/24 (4 days after start [5/20] of Pred taper and the stop of Methocarbamol). Because last time she tanked in pain so quickly, he wanted to be sure she would be comfortable before doing any additional pain med adjustments. So we will revisit at that time.
I sincerely appreciate this group and the time it takes for all of the help you folks offer!!
Thank you!
Cindy
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Post by Cindy & Charli on Jun 6, 2021 5:08:37 GMT -7
Video made to show primary care vet at appointment on 6/3 of Charli Grace walking. Original episode 4/28/21 Date of video 6/2/21 - 5 weeks post-trauma Still on 100% crate rest through 6/23/21 Except for video to show walking - normally leashed to go potty At date of video - meds were: Gabapentin 100mg capsules 1x/day (100 mg per day) Pepcid AC 1/4 tab 2x/day (5 mg 2x day) CBD Oil - 125 mg/ml - (1 ml 2x day) ▼Prednisone 20 mg tab - NOW REDUCED TO 1/4 tab 1x day (give at night) (5 mg day) - this will be done for one week as per vet Jing Tang Concentrated Cervical Formula Herbal supplement recommended by acupuncture vet - 1 capsule 1x day (200 mg per capsule) Link to ingredients - tcvmpet.com/products/cervical-formula-concentrated-0-2g-capsules-50-html?variant=14813892542513After primary vet visit on 6/3/21 - meds have been reduced to: Gabapentin - DISCONTINUED - contact vet if any pain indicators Pepcid AC 1/4 tab 2x/day (5 mg 2x day) (will stop on 6/9/21 with end of Pred) CBD Oil - 125 mg/ml - (1 ml 2x day) Prednisone 20 mg tab - NOW REDUCED TO 1/4 tab EVERY OTHER DAY (give at night) (5 mg every other day) - this will be done for one week as per vet - then stop Prednisone on 6/9/21 Jing Tang Concentrated Cervical Formula (herbal supplement recommended by acupuncture vet) - 1 capsule 1x day (200 mg per capsule) [Moderator's Note. Please do not edit
12.4 lbs / 5.62 kg
Rimadyl injection 4/28
Rimadyl as of 4/29: 25mgs 2x/day for 1 day, LAST dose 4/29, no washout days
prednisone as of 4/29 : 10mgs 1x/day for 22 days; then 5/21 re-test taper Last dose 6/9
5/8 back legs: pushing, not knuckling, not using front legs
5/21 front legs move- paws knuckle
Pepcid AC 5mg 2x/day til 6/9 ]
Acupuncture 1 x per week Laser therapy 1 x per week Primary care vet on 6/3/21 was extremely pleased with Charli's progress to this point - almost to the point of amazement - recalling that on 4/29 (the morning after the initial incident), Charli was completely paralyzed and immobile. (never lost DPS) Vet recommended taper of Pred to every OTHER day - then stop on 6/9/21. We will continue [at home?] acupuncture and laser therapy through 6/23, at least. Will confer with acupuncture vet about continuing herbal supplement and acupuncture (dose and frequency) at that point. Charli is doing great!! But we know that this will be a life-time management issue from this point on to keep Charli safe, well, and happy. |
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Post by Ann Brittain on Jun 6, 2021 7:30:04 GMT -7
I'm glad Charli is making such great progress.
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PaulaM
Moderator.
Member since 2007: surgery, conservative . Montana, USA
Posts: 19,528
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Post by PaulaM on Jun 6, 2021 14:15:29 GMT -7
Cindy, Charli is really doing nicely in nerve function repair!!!!
Stick to the very STRICT rest to avoid any setback in disc healing that could impair the nerves. There was a lot of back movement in your video for the still healing disc. It is exciting to see so much improvement and want to share it, but not at the risk of the still healing disc.
Laser and acupuncture are still provided at home via a mobile vet?
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Post by Cindy & Charli on Jun 6, 2021 15:50:19 GMT -7
Thank you, PaulaM - and yes - the acupuncture and laser are done via home visits.
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Post by Cindy & Charli on Jun 21, 2021 3:19:22 GMT -7
UPDATE on Charli - 6/23 will be 8 calendar weeks since incident - Charli is off all medications at this point - and, by all indications, is pain free. GRADUATION DAY June 23  ** We are continuing the acupuncture on a weekly basis for a while - and will eventually scale back to once a month when and how the vet recommends. She is still on strict crate rest and only allowed to "walk" during potty breaks. She has a small, fenced area (about 5' x 5') where she can potty - and when she walks around in this area, she is very wobbly with her back end - almost like she doesn't really know where her feet are going to land with each step. But...we'll take it! She can walk on her own! We will most likely continue the crating for a while - slowly easing her back to "normal" (albeit a NEW normal) life. She had always been crated when my daughter and son-in-law were at work (or gone from home) - so that will continue. Thank you so very much for all of your help and support! |
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She will NOT go potty in the rain - and has held it up to 24 hours in the past. I wasn't completely concerned at this point - but I was certainly keeping it on my radar. Her belly was soft and I did not palpate a full bladder at this point.
