Welcome TBone! You have come to the right place AND we are glad you are here. This is something to pay attention to and take action today!
#1
Crate your dog asap, now to prevent suspicion of a disc episode from worsening to cause severe loss of neuro functions. The more the spine moves the more the bad disc can be furthered damaged. Keep mild symptoms mild by quickly addressing things.
#2
Get to the vet asap now, today Saturday, for a diagnosis and the matching treatment. Hours matter in getting meds on board to start protecting the spinal cord.
There are other diseases that can mimic the signs of a disc episode. Once you have a diagnosis we have lots of information to share with you with at home care.
Secure the crate in your vehicle. Transport carefully using a crate padded out with rolled up towels on either side of the dog to prevent movement or jarring the spine when braking or turning corners.
MONITOR & report PAIN
◻︎ shivering-trembling ◻︎ yelping when picked up or moved
◻︎ slow to move
◻︎ tight tense tummy
◻︎ arched back, ears pinned back ◻︎ head held high or nose to the ground.
◻︎ restless, can't find a comfortable position
◻︎ slow or reluctant to move much in crate such as shift positions
◻︎ looks up with just eyes and does not move head and neck easily.
◻︎ not eating due to painful chewing or in too much overall pain
◻︎ holds front or back leg flamingo style not wanting to bear weight
◻︎ not their normal perky selves
MONITOR and report NEURO FUNCTION diminishment
As damage to the spinal cord increases, the loss is in predictable steps. 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/toes scuffing floor
4. Paws knuckle
5. Weak/little leg movement, can't move up into a stand
6. Legs do not work at all (paralysis, dog is down)
7. Bladder control is lost
8. Tail wagging with joy is lost
9.
Deep pain sensation, the last neuro function, a critical indicator for nerves to be able to self heal after surgery or with conservative treatment.
QUICKLY GET UP TO SPEED
See our website right at the top of the page under
"Suspect IVDD? Do This NOW" to quickly get you up to speed:
dodgerslist.com When you can please update us AND do register so we are able to give our best support to you and your dog. We will be watching for your update, the diagnosis and what meds where prescribed.
