I am very sorry to hear about little Princess. I am a member of the yahoo AAI support group Ladyjane referred to. The address is
AtlantoaxialInstabilitypups@yahoogroups.com
I will sent a message to the group to welcome you. You will need the support. All of us have different aai stories and different outcomes. I will be up front and say i am the only one in the group that lost an aai baby. Last year in recovery surgery. If you read my story please know Ellie had a severe AAI diagnosis and serious neoro issues. But she was here for a purpose. The other ladies in the group have various successes and struggles. This can certainly be repaired by surgery. I am encouraged you said she had a small separation between C1 and C2. My Ellie was almost detatched. There is also a conservative option with AAI- the possibility of fushion by cast or strong neck brace. Your nuero surgeon will certainly help you through what your baby needs. Extremely important to have a expert at this surgery. It is very very serious. And the recovery takes a while. But can be all successful. It would be my advice to keep her crated and still until you have your appt. You do not want more separation on her spine. Is she on prednizone already? I know you feel bad making her stay confined but try as much as you can. She is very fragile and uncomfortable. You are doing everything right and being a good mother. A wise friend said to me you will learn how to take care of her and teach her how to get thru this- but you are really going to learn from her! You will see how strong your Princess can be and you will be amazed at her yorkietude.
Yes- the surgery is highly expensive. Apply now for CareCredit if you need. I personally received not a dime back from Ellie's breeder. We will be here for you to encourage you thru this so please keep us posted. I will let the group know now about Princes. JamieV has a great AAI puppy story and she lives outside of San Diego. So you are on the same time zone and may answer to you the quickest. Please join the group and you will all get thru this before long. Sherryl