It has been a long, long time since I have posted but now I am in desperate need of advice.
Are any members familar with DM (degenerative myelopathy); a disease usually seen in large breed dogs? My beloved Kobi, (age 12 1/2) began showing symptoms approx 1 year ago of weakness, unsteady gait, knuckling in his rear legs. An MRI revealed a disc disorder which resulted in surgery by an orthopedic specialist...a hemilaminectomy. The prognosis was VERY guarded but he seemed to improve slightly. As time progressed he is getting much weaker, falls when walking, and his gait worsens. He crosses his back legs, knuckles and is reluctant to move. When I read the symptoms of DM...it sounds exactly what my Kobi is exhibiting.
I am scheduled to see a neurologist on Mon, 11/15 in Phildelphia PA. I started swimmimg him in the bathtub (3 minutes) and have ordered a K9 cart...to be delivered in 1 week.
I need HELP from the GROUP. Please...has anyone experienced this? I am desperate for advice and suggestions to make his life as comfortable as I can. He means EVERYTHING to me. I am crying as I type. I am proud to be part of this forum. If advice is out there...I know it will come from all of YOU.
Thank you
Abby