This happened to Zippy about 7-8 years ago, he is 15 now. My sister opted for the surgery, which at the time was around $2,000 if he had surgery now it would be $3,000. Since then he walks with a limp, most resembling walking like a drunk since he can't walk in a straight line. He used to be a constant jumper and isn't able to do that any more. After the surgery he was able to get up the stairs by himself if you gave him some time, but now he has human elevator service up the stairs but can manage down the stairs on his own. In the most recent years he has lost some muscle mass in his back legs, and nerve loss with the end result being incontenence.At the time of his surgery they didn't aquatic physical therapy as widely available as they do now, but that is what the vet suggested. Accupuncture was a side thought, since it's only a temporary fix. So now he is on Metacam for pain, and Proin for the incontenence. Even with the meds, when its rainy or humid he has a really difficult time.
Last year Zippy went to see his Neurologist, and they thought that all of the damaged tissue may not have been removed. An MRI to check would of cost $3,000 and surgery another $3,000. Considering his age my sister decided against more procedures. Otherwise he still has the spirit of a young dog, and you can tell he doesn't like that he can't control what his body does. |