My dog Pebbles is a 12yr old Basset Mix who recently lost the use of her hind legs. We've been to her regular vet and a specialist but no one is able to tell me what is wrong with her. They keep telling me that the paralysis is irreversible but offer no explaination as to how this happened.
Approximately two months ago Pebbles started having problems getting up the stairs. She would go up a couple of flights and then turn around and run back downstairs. One day she couldn't make it up the last flight and had to be carried. It has been downhill since then.
One vet said that she may have had a ruptured disc that would have needed surgery within 24hrs to prevent permanent paralysis. The other said that she has a heart murmur and it may not be fully pumping resulting in a blood clot. Since the paralysis kicked in she hasn't been in any pain and actually started acting more like herself.
The past month or so have been hectic as I have been learning how to change her diapers and care for a paralyzed dog. I made the decision not put her down as long as she wasn't suffering. So many people have looked at me like I'm crazy for not euthanizing her. How can I when she's still the Pebbles I've known and loved for the last seven years?
Two days ago she started vomiting and has been unable to hold down water. She has been restless all night and finally settled down a little while ago. Up until now she has remained alert. We're going into day three though. I'm going to have to see how she is when she wakes up. I don't know what else I can do for her. Until she can keep water down I can't give her any food. I'm going to call the vet again and make them see her today. She can't wait until Monday to go in. Especially if she keeps vomiting.
I'm hoping that we can figure out what's going on so she doesn't get worse. My greatest fear is that they won't be able to do anything and I will have to make the decision to put her down. I've heard people say that they let you know when it's time. I'm afraid that I am too attached to her and won't want to admit when it is time. I don't want her to suffer but of course I don't want her to go either. How do I know when it's the right thing to do? If I go into the vet's office today and they can't do anything for her does that mean it's time to let go or do I still fight?
She hasn't eaten anything since Thursday morning and has had very little to drink. I'm not a doctor but I do know that it's not good when they stop eating or drinking. If anyone has any advice I would love to hear it. Thanks for listening! - Chris & Pebbles
12yr Old Basset Mix Keeps Vomiting
Urinary Tract Infection
I am not a vet, but the owner of a paralyzed dog.
Your basset is a long bodied dog that is prone to disk injuries. The fact that she couldn't go up or down stairs a few months ago indicates that it may be a disk that was hurting and not a blood clot or FCE.
If you have NOT been expressing urine, and she is incontinent, you most likely have a urinary tract infection. Please take her to the vet TODAY to have her urine cultured. A bladder infection can lead to kidney failure in later stages, and death.
A culture will tell the vet which antibiotic will work best. I don't want to alarm you, but this is VERY serious. If you can't go to the regular vet, then go to a 24 hour vet. NOT drinking is also VERY serious.
Dianne
PS. Someone else will come along soon with more suggestions. Have you crate rested your her, or given her steriods? Surgery is an option that works for many pets.
Your basset is a long bodied dog that is prone to disk injuries. The fact that she couldn't go up or down stairs a few months ago indicates that it may be a disk that was hurting and not a blood clot or FCE.
If you have NOT been expressing urine, and she is incontinent, you most likely have a urinary tract infection. Please take her to the vet TODAY to have her urine cultured. A bladder infection can lead to kidney failure in later stages, and death.
A culture will tell the vet which antibiotic will work best. I don't want to alarm you, but this is VERY serious. If you can't go to the regular vet, then go to a 24 hour vet. NOT drinking is also VERY serious.
Quite a few of us have that experience also. You are among friends here. We aren't going to suggest that you euthanize a paralyzed pet. Many of us have paralyzed pets. My dog has been paralyzed and happy for 3 years.So many people have looked at me like I'm crazy for not euthanizing her.
Dianne
PS. Someone else will come along soon with more suggestions. Have you crate rested your her, or given her steriods? Surgery is an option that works for many pets.
Last edited by Dianne on Sat Dec 29, 2007 7:51 am, edited 2 times in total.
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GabrielDeafBlindPupFamily
- Posts: 5011
- Joined: Thu Dec 11, 2003 7:00 pm
- Location: St. Helena Island, SC
My first thought
is not a good one. My vet will accept emergencies that walk in the door on a Saturday (although you have to wait 2 weeks for a Saturday appointment) and I would urge you to show up on their doorstep.
I hate to sound like an alarmist, because I deal with vomitting a LOT in my house, but the rest of the digestive tracts in afflicted pups works well.
My Allix was shot in spine, and her digestive of course shut down while at hospital. They did nothing for it, and she died enroute to another hospital choking on feces.
I could be totally off base here, and I hope that I am, but I'm thinking something is not getting past a point in digestive system?
I have had kitties with blockage and what you are experiencing sounds exactly like what happened to them. One had surgery in time, the other was mis-dx'd and released to me to get better. She didn't.
I hate to sound like an alarmist, because I deal with vomitting a LOT in my house, but the rest of the digestive tracts in afflicted pups works well.
My Allix was shot in spine, and her digestive of course shut down while at hospital. They did nothing for it, and she died enroute to another hospital choking on feces.
I could be totally off base here, and I hope that I am, but I'm thinking something is not getting past a point in digestive system?
I have had kitties with blockage and what you are experiencing sounds exactly like what happened to them. One had surgery in time, the other was mis-dx'd and released to me to get better. She didn't.
Karen, Andy's ^i^ mom
Lethal White Aussies Rule!
INTERACTIVE RESCUE SITE!
http://www.s8.createphpbb.com/lethalwhiteauss/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LethalWhiteAussieRescue/
Lethal White Aussies Rule!
INTERACTIVE RESCUE SITE!
http://www.s8.createphpbb.com/lethalwhiteauss/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LethalWhiteAussieRescue/
Hi Chris,
I moved your topic to the Paralysis forum where many more people with experience in this area will see it. I am also the owner of a paralyzed dog. Vomiting is not associated with paralysis, so something else is causing the vomiting. I'm not sure what it might be--could be a lot of things. My first thought is pancreatitis. Another thought was bloat, but if it's been going on for 3 days hopefully that rules out bloat. If she is quite constipated, that could unsettle her stomach. If your dog is on any medication, it could be that. I agree she needs to be seen before Monday, I hope you'll let us know what you find out about the vomiting.
Many people here are like you. They decided to care for their paralyzed dog rather than put him down. I made that decision when my dog was paralyzed 4 years ago and we have had 4 good years. I can't imagine my life without her.
If you took your dog to a vet and a specialist, didn't anyone recommend doing imaging, such as a myelogram or CT or MRI? That would show if there was a ruptured disk (like Dianne said, you have a breed with a long back where this happens) or something else. My dog's surgeon said bassets are a breed more likely to have problems from a myelogram, so you might want to consider one of the other forms of imaging.
I do not know if they discussed expressing the bladder with you? Here is some information. I express my dog's bladder 4 times a day.
http://www.handicappedpets.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=Express_a_dog_or_cat
I will be waiting to hear an update on your dog. Hang in there! You are right, there is no need to put her down just because of paralysis.
I moved your topic to the Paralysis forum where many more people with experience in this area will see it. I am also the owner of a paralyzed dog. Vomiting is not associated with paralysis, so something else is causing the vomiting. I'm not sure what it might be--could be a lot of things. My first thought is pancreatitis. Another thought was bloat, but if it's been going on for 3 days hopefully that rules out bloat. If she is quite constipated, that could unsettle her stomach. If your dog is on any medication, it could be that. I agree she needs to be seen before Monday, I hope you'll let us know what you find out about the vomiting.
Many people here are like you. They decided to care for their paralyzed dog rather than put him down. I made that decision when my dog was paralyzed 4 years ago and we have had 4 good years. I can't imagine my life without her.
If you took your dog to a vet and a specialist, didn't anyone recommend doing imaging, such as a myelogram or CT or MRI? That would show if there was a ruptured disk (like Dianne said, you have a breed with a long back where this happens) or something else. My dog's surgeon said bassets are a breed more likely to have problems from a myelogram, so you might want to consider one of the other forms of imaging.
I do not know if they discussed expressing the bladder with you? Here is some information. I express my dog's bladder 4 times a day.
http://www.handicappedpets.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=Express_a_dog_or_cat
I will be waiting to hear an update on your dog. Hang in there! You are right, there is no need to put her down just because of paralysis.
You are dealing with a neuro problem. You did not say what kind of specialist you took Pebbles to. Was crate rest part of the treatment?
Can you take her to a board certified neuro? There are many diseases that mimic degenerative disc disease (aka slipped disc, IVDD) which basset's can be prone to. It is best to have your dog seen by a *specialist* who is very familiar with all neuro problems/diseases.
University Teaching Vet Hospitals have board certified neuros or find others here:
Board certified neuros, internists and surgical specialists near you:
http://www.acvim.org/Specialist/Search.aspx
http://www.acvs.org/AnimalOwners/DiplomateDirectory/
Vomiting that has not resolved itself in 24 hrs needs to be seen by a vet today. Dehydration is a real concern. Is Pebbles on any meds?
Have her checked for a urinary infection (UTI). Dog's that are paralyzed are prone to UTI. How are you doing with expressing her bladder and poop? Once you are proficient in expressing Pebbles should stay dry for 4-6 hours and have a dry night. Ask for another demo. Read these tips before and you'll get more out of the demo. http://www.dodgerslist.com/lit/Expressing.htm
Many dogs including mine live a very happy life and can join in family activities with their carts.
When you get the vomiting resolved, let us know.
--
Paula Milner
Lewis and Clark (3 surgeries, paralyzed since Jan 2007;
Sept 10, 2007 superficial pain sensation)
Dachsie IVDD Care FAQ:
http://users.cyberport.net/~milnerwm/dachsieFAQ.html
Can you take her to a board certified neuro? There are many diseases that mimic degenerative disc disease (aka slipped disc, IVDD) which basset's can be prone to. It is best to have your dog seen by a *specialist* who is very familiar with all neuro problems/diseases.
University Teaching Vet Hospitals have board certified neuros or find others here:
Board certified neuros, internists and surgical specialists near you:
http://www.acvim.org/Specialist/Search.aspx
http://www.acvs.org/AnimalOwners/DiplomateDirectory/
Vomiting that has not resolved itself in 24 hrs needs to be seen by a vet today. Dehydration is a real concern. Is Pebbles on any meds?
Have her checked for a urinary infection (UTI). Dog's that are paralyzed are prone to UTI. How are you doing with expressing her bladder and poop? Once you are proficient in expressing Pebbles should stay dry for 4-6 hours and have a dry night. Ask for another demo. Read these tips before and you'll get more out of the demo. http://www.dodgerslist.com/lit/Expressing.htm
Many dogs including mine live a very happy life and can join in family activities with their carts.
When you get the vomiting resolved, let us know.
--
Paula Milner
Lewis and Clark (3 surgeries, paralyzed since Jan 2007;
Sept 10, 2007 superficial pain sensation)
Dachsie IVDD Care FAQ:
http://users.cyberport.net/~milnerwm/dachsieFAQ.html
Just got back from the vet
They took more x-rays and this time found evidence of disc disease. The x-rays they showed me on 11/30/07 showed even spacing between the vertebrae. Today's x-rays looked like her entire back end is scrunched up. I don't understand how the discs could deteriorate that much in only a month's time.
Her white blood cell count is high so they're doing lab work on her. They said that it could be either her liver or pancreas that's having problems. Before I left they injected her and created a fluid pack in her side. They also gave her Amoxicillian for the infection as well as Centriac to keep her from vomiting.
Once she's able to keep the pills and water down I'm supposed to start her on a bland diet. She loves table food so I'm sure she'll have no issues with that. The vet gave me very little information on disc disease. I don't know what my options are. Crate rest has never been recommended and neither has expressing the bladder. I've tried it on my own but since she has such loose skin it's difficult to locate her bladder. Any pointers?
Also, recently she started refusing to roll over so I can change her diaper. I'm assuming that has to do with her being in pain as a result of her spine injury. She lost another 3 lbs in the last three weeks as well. When she was healthy she weighed 52 lbs. Since May she has gone down to 36 lbs and keeps shrinking.
The injections they gave her knocked her out for now. She was restless all last night so hopefully this will allow her to rest for awhile.
The specialist that we went to was not neuro. Since the original x-rays ruled out disc disease no one recommended that. I took her to a rehab vet in Chicago that specializes in hydrotherapy, veterinary chiropractic and acupunture. My brother in law is a chiropractor so I've seen what it does for humans. I had also heard a lot about the benefits of acupuncture.
They examined Pebbles and told me that there was nothing that they could do for her. However, they were able to show me where the paralysis began and ended in her spine. They were also able to show me how to do range of motion exercises to prevent her muscles from seizing. They also suggest using an electro muscular stimulator on her hind legs three times a week and gave me information on wheelchairs.
I've been looking at different wheelchair options and would like to get one for her as soon as possible. She still has life in her and a fighting spirit. Everyone I've talked to said that she'll let me know when it's time for her to go. Of course she's so rotten she'll probably be around for many more years to come. Ha, ha. Thank you for all of your responses! Any suggestions on expressing her bladder would be appreciated.
Her white blood cell count is high so they're doing lab work on her. They said that it could be either her liver or pancreas that's having problems. Before I left they injected her and created a fluid pack in her side. They also gave her Amoxicillian for the infection as well as Centriac to keep her from vomiting.
Once she's able to keep the pills and water down I'm supposed to start her on a bland diet. She loves table food so I'm sure she'll have no issues with that. The vet gave me very little information on disc disease. I don't know what my options are. Crate rest has never been recommended and neither has expressing the bladder. I've tried it on my own but since she has such loose skin it's difficult to locate her bladder. Any pointers?
Also, recently she started refusing to roll over so I can change her diaper. I'm assuming that has to do with her being in pain as a result of her spine injury. She lost another 3 lbs in the last three weeks as well. When she was healthy she weighed 52 lbs. Since May she has gone down to 36 lbs and keeps shrinking.
The injections they gave her knocked her out for now. She was restless all last night so hopefully this will allow her to rest for awhile.
The specialist that we went to was not neuro. Since the original x-rays ruled out disc disease no one recommended that. I took her to a rehab vet in Chicago that specializes in hydrotherapy, veterinary chiropractic and acupunture. My brother in law is a chiropractor so I've seen what it does for humans. I had also heard a lot about the benefits of acupuncture.
They examined Pebbles and told me that there was nothing that they could do for her. However, they were able to show me where the paralysis began and ended in her spine. They were also able to show me how to do range of motion exercises to prevent her muscles from seizing. They also suggest using an electro muscular stimulator on her hind legs three times a week and gave me information on wheelchairs.
I've been looking at different wheelchair options and would like to get one for her as soon as possible. She still has life in her and a fighting spirit. Everyone I've talked to said that she'll let me know when it's time for her to go. Of course she's so rotten she'll probably be around for many more years to come. Ha, ha. Thank you for all of your responses! Any suggestions on expressing her bladder would be appreciated.
Re: Just got back from the vet
kimchoi1 wrote: Any suggestions on expressing her bladder would be appreciated.
I know Carol gave you the link to the expressing page, but you might find some of the other incontinence info useful, too. viewtopic.php?t=4Incontinence/Paralysis
Hi Chris,
I am so glad that you took her to see the vet today. I think that you are beginning to get some answers.
I still have one question. Did they do a urinalysis? That would determine if she has a bladder or kidney infection (UTI).
Incontinence: I stand my male doxie on top of the washer to express his urine. That is an easy height for my back. You'll have to decide what works best for you. There are many methods.
I use clenched fists that I position and almost roll forward to expel urine.
Read the "sticky" on the Incontinence forum about expressing bladder/urine.
http://www.handicappedpet.net/helppets/ ... ic.php?t=4
An incontinent dog will leak if not expressed,and urine may pool in the bladder if not completely expressed, and it could become a source of infection. That is why we express our incontinent/paralyzed pets 3 or 4 or even more times per day. Dogs don't usually die from paralysis, but can die from kidney failure.
I knew nothing about paralysis when my dog became paralyzed, and got poor advice from a vet. Little did the vet know that the people on this bb helped save him with their good advice. Welcome. We are hoping for a good outcome for you too.
Hope to hear an update when you have time.
Dianne
I am so glad that you took her to see the vet today. I think that you are beginning to get some answers.
I still have one question. Did they do a urinalysis? That would determine if she has a bladder or kidney infection (UTI).
Incontinence: I stand my male doxie on top of the washer to express his urine. That is an easy height for my back. You'll have to decide what works best for you. There are many methods.
I use clenched fists that I position and almost roll forward to expel urine.
Read the "sticky" on the Incontinence forum about expressing bladder/urine.
http://www.handicappedpet.net/helppets/ ... ic.php?t=4
An incontinent dog will leak if not expressed,and urine may pool in the bladder if not completely expressed, and it could become a source of infection. That is why we express our incontinent/paralyzed pets 3 or 4 or even more times per day. Dogs don't usually die from paralysis, but can die from kidney failure.
I knew nothing about paralysis when my dog became paralyzed, and got poor advice from a vet. Little did the vet know that the people on this bb helped save him with their good advice. Welcome. We are hoping for a good outcome for you too.
Hope to hear an update when you have time.
Dianne
Last edited by Dianne on Sat Dec 29, 2007 4:45 pm, edited 2 times in total.
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Cindidoxiemom
- Posts: 1359
- Joined: Mon Dec 05, 2005 2:17 pm
- Location: Houston, Texas
Re: Just got back from the vet
I've notice you mention xray several times. Xrays are able to see defects in bone...not in soft tissue like disc material. Xrays are not used as a diagnostic for IVDD. Truly a good MRI , Myelogram or CT would be necessary to rule out or absolutely confirm IVDD (disc disease).kimchoi1 wrote:They took more x-rays and this time found evidence of disc disease. The x-rays they showed me on 11/30/07 showed even spacing between the vertebrae. Today's x-rays looked like her entire back end is scrunched up. I don't understand how the discs could deteriorate that much in only a month's time. .
kimchoi1 wrote:The specialist that we went to was not neuro. Since the original x-rays ruled out disc disease no one recommended that. I took her to a rehab vet in Chicago that specializes in hydrotherapy, veterinary chiropractic and acupunture. My brother in law is a chiropractor so I've seen what it does for humans. I had also heard a lot about the benefits of acupuncture..
Again...an xray can not rule out disc disease...
You have gotten some good advice above. I must say I question any Vet that would send a client home with a paralyzed dog and not discuss bladder care. It is SO important; in many ways more important than the paralysis since ultimately a UTI can travel to the kidneys and kill a dog.kimchoi1 wrote:I've been looking at different wheelchair options and would like to get one for her as soon as possible. She still has life in her and a fighting spirit. Everyone I've talked to said that she'll let me know when it's time for her to go. Of course she's so rotten she'll probably be around for many more years to come. Ha, ha. Thank you for all of your responses! Any suggestions on expressing her bladder would be appreciated.
Did they do a urine culture while you were there? If not...please insist on one.
My dachshund has an Eddies cart and is we were very pleased with it. He spinal walks a lot now, so he doesn't need his cart as much.
Please let us know how your pup is feeling.
Cindi
I am not a vet; please consult your vet before making any treatment decisions.
Hunter IVDD Surgery x 2~Walking
Oscar IVDD Surgery x 1~ Paralyzed
Sage and Misty
Hunter IVDD Surgery x 2~Walking
Oscar IVDD Surgery x 1~ Paralyzed
Sage and Misty
Pebbles needs to see a board certified Diplomate neuro and get a proper diagnosis. One kind of treatment can be good for one disease and bad for another. These general vets you are using do not have the in-depth education/credentials of a specialist to diagnose properly.
If the one vet thought she had disc disease, the proper treatment should have been steroid, pain reliever, 8 weeks of crate rest. Surgery, if no improvement, would have been considered.
Did the vet say she still has deep pain sensation in her back feet?
If Pebbles does have a disc herniation, then she needs to be in a crate. The most difficult yet most important part of the treatment for disc disease is absolute rest. 100% STRICT 8 weeks of crate rest. That means 24/7 in the crate except for potty breaks. No laps, no couch, no sleeping in bed with you, no meadering or walking around during potty times. At this time you would NOT be doing any chiro, any aggressive ROM and no wheelchair for 8 weeks. Don't roll her on her back. Right now until you can get a proper diagnosis with a neuro specialist, I would err on the side of caution and crate her as if a disc herniation.
X-Rays are used for ruling out other problems not for proving a disc herniation. X ray do not show soft tissue such as spinal cord and disc, just bone. A neuro who knows how to perform a proper hands-on exam can give a good evaluation, diagnosis & prescribe the correct treatment whether meds or surgery. A MRI or CT are used to pinpoint the exact problem prior to going into surgery.
Many dogs with proper crate rest and meds, can recover from paralysis. But first your must get the right diagnosis to know what the right treatment is.
Please go today, tonight to a neurologist. They have weekend and emergency hours. Once too much damage has been done to the spinal cord, you sentence Pebbles to a lifetime of paralysis. Paralysis is an emergency.
University Teaching Vet Hospitals have board certified neuros or find others here:
http://www.acvim.org/Specialist/Search.aspx
I really just can't imagine the circumstances why a vet would fail to tell you a paralyzed dog needs to be expressed and give you a demo. You really need to go tonight to a different vet, ER and get Pebbles expressed and learn the proper pressure to apply. http://www.dodgerslist.com/lit/Expressing.htm
Please let us know what the urine culture, liver, enzyme, blood tests reveal.
--
Paula Milner
Lewis and Clark (3 surgeries, paralyzed since Jan 2007;
Sept 10, 2007 superficial pain sensation)
Dachsie IVDD Care FAQ:
http://users.cyberport.net/~milnerwm/dachsieFAQ.html
If the one vet thought she had disc disease, the proper treatment should have been steroid, pain reliever, 8 weeks of crate rest. Surgery, if no improvement, would have been considered.
Did the vet say she still has deep pain sensation in her back feet?
If Pebbles does have a disc herniation, then she needs to be in a crate. The most difficult yet most important part of the treatment for disc disease is absolute rest. 100% STRICT 8 weeks of crate rest. That means 24/7 in the crate except for potty breaks. No laps, no couch, no sleeping in bed with you, no meadering or walking around during potty times. At this time you would NOT be doing any chiro, any aggressive ROM and no wheelchair for 8 weeks. Don't roll her on her back. Right now until you can get a proper diagnosis with a neuro specialist, I would err on the side of caution and crate her as if a disc herniation.
X-Rays are used for ruling out other problems not for proving a disc herniation. X ray do not show soft tissue such as spinal cord and disc, just bone. A neuro who knows how to perform a proper hands-on exam can give a good evaluation, diagnosis & prescribe the correct treatment whether meds or surgery. A MRI or CT are used to pinpoint the exact problem prior to going into surgery.
Many dogs with proper crate rest and meds, can recover from paralysis. But first your must get the right diagnosis to know what the right treatment is.
Please go today, tonight to a neurologist. They have weekend and emergency hours. Once too much damage has been done to the spinal cord, you sentence Pebbles to a lifetime of paralysis. Paralysis is an emergency.
University Teaching Vet Hospitals have board certified neuros or find others here:
http://www.acvim.org/Specialist/Search.aspx
I really just can't imagine the circumstances why a vet would fail to tell you a paralyzed dog needs to be expressed and give you a demo. You really need to go tonight to a different vet, ER and get Pebbles expressed and learn the proper pressure to apply. http://www.dodgerslist.com/lit/Expressing.htm
Please let us know what the urine culture, liver, enzyme, blood tests reveal.
--
Paula Milner
Lewis and Clark (3 surgeries, paralyzed since Jan 2007;
Sept 10, 2007 superficial pain sensation)
Dachsie IVDD Care FAQ:
http://users.cyberport.net/~milnerwm/dachsieFAQ.html
Sunday
Pebbles has gotten worse since yesterday. When we got home yesterday she passed out from the injections and has been sleeping off and on ever since. Since she had stopped vomiting I let her have as much water as she wanted after she consistently kept it down.
Today she has been sleeping all day and is listless. When she looks at me she's barely there. I tried putting her medicine in cheese last night but she wouldn't touch it. I ended up having to crush it up and put it in her water. She drank most of it. I snuck some chicken broth into her water but she won't drink all of it. I need to give her another pill but don't know how I'm going to get her to take it. She fought with me and kept spitting out her pills this morning.
Something tells me that this might be the end. She can be picky about eating but I can usually make her eat if I add gravy or something she likes. She hasn't had any solid food since Wednesday and won't eat anything I put in front of her. She actually moves away from it. Tonight her breathing has become more labored. She's calm and wants me to pet her but for the most part she's just laying here listless.
I'm going to keep an eye on her tonight and if she's not any better, in the morning, will have to take her to the vet. I can't keep putting her through this. Especially if she's not going to get any better. The paralysis is manageable but her body seems like it's shutting down. I will know more in the morning. The also did blood work on Friday and will have the test results back. We'll see what happens.
Today she has been sleeping all day and is listless. When she looks at me she's barely there. I tried putting her medicine in cheese last night but she wouldn't touch it. I ended up having to crush it up and put it in her water. She drank most of it. I snuck some chicken broth into her water but she won't drink all of it. I need to give her another pill but don't know how I'm going to get her to take it. She fought with me and kept spitting out her pills this morning.
Something tells me that this might be the end. She can be picky about eating but I can usually make her eat if I add gravy or something she likes. She hasn't had any solid food since Wednesday and won't eat anything I put in front of her. She actually moves away from it. Tonight her breathing has become more labored. She's calm and wants me to pet her but for the most part she's just laying here listless.
I'm going to keep an eye on her tonight and if she's not any better, in the morning, will have to take her to the vet. I can't keep putting her through this. Especially if she's not going to get any better. The paralysis is manageable but her body seems like it's shutting down. I will know more in the morning. The also did blood work on Friday and will have the test results back. We'll see what happens.
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GabrielDeafBlindPupFamily
- Posts: 5011
- Joined: Thu Dec 11, 2003 7:00 pm
- Location: St. Helena Island, SC
I am so sorry this has been such a struggle
and Pebbles is having so much difficulty. I know it rips your heart out.
You have gotten some great advice, and I have no idea if Paula's directions are possible for you, as there is nothing within 50 miles of me that would make that possible (not to mention the $$ ~ for a lot of us, we simply don't have that kind of $$ which is why this board is so indispensible ~ as we were just discussing Savannah VetER's mercenary side on another blog and I won't even open that door), so do what you are able, and let us know how things go. If you believe that you cannot provide for Pebbles because you cannot get her to a board certified neuro for whatever reason, that doesn't mean you cannot take care of her properly. It doesn't mean that you are not moving heaven and earth to take care of her. If I were in your shoes, Paula's advice would be completely out of reach for me, and in other circumstances I would probably feel guilty if I was not able to follow her directives, thinking I was a failure to my pup and her only option was the needle. I hope you are in better circumstances. But in any event, we do what we are able to do and that is the best than anyone can do.
You do what you are able to do, and know that you are doing the best. The very best.
Pebbles is so lucky to have you by her side at this time, and I hold you both close, hoping for a change for the better.
You have gotten some great advice, and I have no idea if Paula's directions are possible for you, as there is nothing within 50 miles of me that would make that possible (not to mention the $$ ~ for a lot of us, we simply don't have that kind of $$ which is why this board is so indispensible ~ as we were just discussing Savannah VetER's mercenary side on another blog and I won't even open that door), so do what you are able, and let us know how things go. If you believe that you cannot provide for Pebbles because you cannot get her to a board certified neuro for whatever reason, that doesn't mean you cannot take care of her properly. It doesn't mean that you are not moving heaven and earth to take care of her. If I were in your shoes, Paula's advice would be completely out of reach for me, and in other circumstances I would probably feel guilty if I was not able to follow her directives, thinking I was a failure to my pup and her only option was the needle. I hope you are in better circumstances. But in any event, we do what we are able to do and that is the best than anyone can do.
You do what you are able to do, and know that you are doing the best. The very best.
Pebbles is so lucky to have you by her side at this time, and I hold you both close, hoping for a change for the better.
Hi Chris,
Sometimes people make their bed on the floor and sleep with the dog in situations like this. Maybe leave a night light on so you can check on her during the night. It sounds like that's all she wants, and all the more you can do. She'll be OK as long as she has you. Wishing you well at this time.
Sometimes people make their bed on the floor and sleep with the dog in situations like this. Maybe leave a night light on so you can check on her during the night. It sounds like that's all she wants, and all the more you can do. She'll be OK as long as she has you. Wishing you well at this time.
Last edited by CarolC on Sun Dec 30, 2007 10:49 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Thank you
You're right about the $$. I let my vet have it yesterday when they charged me over $420 without discussing it with me first. I'm single and while I make a decent living can't afford huge vet bills. I have already gone above and beyond my means to get Pebbles to the vet on a number of occasions. If I could I would take her to the best specialists available. There is nothing I wouldn't do for this dog.
She has been there with me through a lot over the last six years. This is one of the reasons why I would even consider letting her go. I cried when the vet told me I would have to put her on Senior pet food four years ago. I have been fortunate that until now she hasn't had any real medical issues.
When she started sneezing blood in May I held her head and wiped her nose. Then took her to a vet I couldn't afford only to be told that they couldn't figure out what was wrong with her. After a month and a half she stopped sneezing and was back to her old self. When she lost the use of her legs I didn't even consider putting her down. I have stressed myself out to the point where I've lost weight because all of my energy goes towards caring for Pebbles.
There are days when I feel guilty for not feeling that I have the strength to continue caring for her. Those are the days when I cry and hold my dog until I'm ok again. Then go right back to changing diapers, feeding her and doing endless laundry. I come home at lunch to change her and have taken off more days than I should at work to take her to the Doctor. I also feel guilty because yesterday at the vet part of me was hoping that this would be the end. I don't want to lose her but I can't watch her suffer. We're at a crossroads tonight. If I can't get her to eat and if she doesn't get better I'm going to have to let her go. And yes I do feel guilty for not being able to do more. In the end I will know that I did all that I could for her. I hope that I have more time with her but if I don't we've had a wonderful six years that I woudn't trade for the world.
When I walked into the humane society, six years ago, I was looking for a puppy. The first time I saw Pebbles she barked at me. I liked the way she looked though and went out to ask about a Siberian Husky pup and Pebs. When the receptionist heard me say her name she told me that I had to take Pebbles. Then she told me why. The people who owned her had her from the time she was a puppy to when she was six or seven years old. They even raised her with their daughter. She slept in the little girl's bed every night. When the family got another puppy Pebble's became territorial and showed signs of aggression towards it. As a result they got rid of Pebbles instead of the puppy. Because she was older no one would adopt her and she spent 8 months at the Humane Society. She was the longest resident there so at night the workers would let her out of her cage to run in and out of everyone's offices to say hello.
When they told me her story I started getting teary eyed and didn't even want to look at the puppy. They brought Pebbles into the room with me and did that Basset roll and put one paw on my leg. That was it for me. At that moment I knew she was my dog and couldn't wait to get her home. Because she had been there so long she had separation anxiety and other issues when I first brought her home.
I always say that Pebbles need me as much as I needed her. I had just moved into my apartment and was sleeping on a blow up mattress. Pebbles slept next to me at night with my arm around her. She didn't sleep in her own bed until a few years ago. After she realized that I wasn't going to send her away the real Pebbles came out. She has a personality that is all her own and has always enjoyed getting into everything. She drives me nuts but she's mine.
She has been there with me through a lot over the last six years. This is one of the reasons why I would even consider letting her go. I cried when the vet told me I would have to put her on Senior pet food four years ago. I have been fortunate that until now she hasn't had any real medical issues.
When she started sneezing blood in May I held her head and wiped her nose. Then took her to a vet I couldn't afford only to be told that they couldn't figure out what was wrong with her. After a month and a half she stopped sneezing and was back to her old self. When she lost the use of her legs I didn't even consider putting her down. I have stressed myself out to the point where I've lost weight because all of my energy goes towards caring for Pebbles.
There are days when I feel guilty for not feeling that I have the strength to continue caring for her. Those are the days when I cry and hold my dog until I'm ok again. Then go right back to changing diapers, feeding her and doing endless laundry. I come home at lunch to change her and have taken off more days than I should at work to take her to the Doctor. I also feel guilty because yesterday at the vet part of me was hoping that this would be the end. I don't want to lose her but I can't watch her suffer. We're at a crossroads tonight. If I can't get her to eat and if she doesn't get better I'm going to have to let her go. And yes I do feel guilty for not being able to do more. In the end I will know that I did all that I could for her. I hope that I have more time with her but if I don't we've had a wonderful six years that I woudn't trade for the world.
When I walked into the humane society, six years ago, I was looking for a puppy. The first time I saw Pebbles she barked at me. I liked the way she looked though and went out to ask about a Siberian Husky pup and Pebs. When the receptionist heard me say her name she told me that I had to take Pebbles. Then she told me why. The people who owned her had her from the time she was a puppy to when she was six or seven years old. They even raised her with their daughter. She slept in the little girl's bed every night. When the family got another puppy Pebble's became territorial and showed signs of aggression towards it. As a result they got rid of Pebbles instead of the puppy. Because she was older no one would adopt her and she spent 8 months at the Humane Society. She was the longest resident there so at night the workers would let her out of her cage to run in and out of everyone's offices to say hello.
When they told me her story I started getting teary eyed and didn't even want to look at the puppy. They brought Pebbles into the room with me and did that Basset roll and put one paw on my leg. That was it for me. At that moment I knew she was my dog and couldn't wait to get her home. Because she had been there so long she had separation anxiety and other issues when I first brought her home.
I always say that Pebbles need me as much as I needed her. I had just moved into my apartment and was sleeping on a blow up mattress. Pebbles slept next to me at night with my arm around her. She didn't sleep in her own bed until a few years ago. After she realized that I wasn't going to send her away the real Pebbles came out. She has a personality that is all her own and has always enjoyed getting into everything. She drives me nuts but she's mine.
Right now your bigger concern is Pebbles getting worse lethargic and listless, labored breathing. Again I would urge you to seek a board certified internist.
This really sounds like an emergency. Can you get her help tonight?
Where are the test results from the lab work???? What is taking so long? Someone needs to take aggressive action here and get help for Pebbles. Don't sit around and wait. Be pro-active.
Have you looked into Credit Care? No or low interest credit. You find out on-line if you qualify.
http://www.carecredit.com/faqs.html
I drove to the closest neuro 7.5 hours away. It cost me $77 for an office visit to the neurologist at Wash St. U Vet Teaching Hospital. He gave Clark a thorough hands-on neuro exam and diagnosed his problem. Where there is a will, there is a way.
In Chicago you have a wealth of resources.
Board Certified Internist
Animal Emergency & Treatment Ctr. 35 mi from Chicago
1808 E. Belvidere Rd.
Grayslake, IL 60030
Phone: 847-548-5300
Univeristy of Ill 50 mi from Chicago
open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
and the public may use our walk-in emergency clinic any time or call the main phone number #217-333-5300 press "0". I just called there a few minutes ago and they are open.
Map:
http://www.cvm.uiuc.edu/vth/AboutUs/Location.html
--
Paula Milner
Lewis and Clark (3 surgeries, paralyzed since Jan 2007;
Sept 10, 2007 superficial pain sensation)
Dachsie IVDD Care FAQ:
http://users.cyberport.net/~milnerwm/dachsieFAQ.html
This really sounds like an emergency. Can you get her help tonight?
Where are the test results from the lab work???? What is taking so long? Someone needs to take aggressive action here and get help for Pebbles. Don't sit around and wait. Be pro-active.
Have you looked into Credit Care? No or low interest credit. You find out on-line if you qualify.
http://www.carecredit.com/faqs.html
I drove to the closest neuro 7.5 hours away. It cost me $77 for an office visit to the neurologist at Wash St. U Vet Teaching Hospital. He gave Clark a thorough hands-on neuro exam and diagnosed his problem. Where there is a will, there is a way.
In Chicago you have a wealth of resources.
Board Certified Internist
Animal Emergency & Treatment Ctr. 35 mi from Chicago
1808 E. Belvidere Rd.
Grayslake, IL 60030
Phone: 847-548-5300
Univeristy of Ill 50 mi from Chicago
open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
and the public may use our walk-in emergency clinic any time or call the main phone number #217-333-5300 press "0". I just called there a few minutes ago and they are open.
Map:
http://www.cvm.uiuc.edu/vth/AboutUs/Location.html
--
Paula Milner
Lewis and Clark (3 surgeries, paralyzed since Jan 2007;
Sept 10, 2007 superficial pain sensation)
Dachsie IVDD Care FAQ:
http://users.cyberport.net/~milnerwm/dachsieFAQ.html