SHIH TZU WITH POSSIBLE SPINAL/DISK PROBLEMS

[baf2008]

I RECENTLY NOTED MY 5 Y/O SHIH TZU STARTED WALKING DIFFERENTLY X1WEEK. TODAY I TOOK HIM TO OUR VET AND SHE PUT HIM ON PREDISONE REGIME AND CRATE REST X1WEEK. BASED ON HER OBSERVATION, HE COULD HAVE A SLIPPED DISK OR SOME SPINAL ISSUES. SHE DECIDED THIS APPROACH FIRST DUE TO HIS PRESENTATION. HE SHOWS NO SIGNS OF PAIN/DISCOMFORT. WE WALK ABOUT 3 MILES A DAY. HAD IT NOT BEEN FOR THE SUBTLE WALKING AND RAISING OF THE FOOT WHEN HE LOOKS UP, I WOULD NEVER HAVE DISCOVERED THAT SOMETHING WAS WRONG. MY GREATIST CONCERN NOW IS IF HE IS IN PAIN. SECONDLY, WHAT CAUSES THIS PROBLEM? MY DOG SHOWS NO SIGNS OF DISCOMFORT, WE WALKED THIS MORNING PRIOR TO VISITING THE VET WITHOUT ANY INDICATION OF DISCOMFORT. THANIKS

[Marzy7181]

My dog has a similar problem, but now when he squats to have a bowel-movement he can't bring the legs back to a walking position so I carry him home.  Steroids didn't help so my Vet had me take him to a Vet specialist in Memphis TN since we live in a smaller town, who recommended a Ct scan and MRI to see if he needs surgery.  I read up on the surgery and it is generally very successful--but rather costly.  He quoted from $2--4,000. so this Tue. he goes for the CT and MRI.  He was a rescue dog and is so precious.

[ginger899]

It sounds like the vet knows what to do for the best. Rest, and the prednisone and a bit of time, will give him time to heal. Hope he's better soon! Best wishes.

[baf2008]

Thanks ginger899. My vet decision based on my dogs presentation elected not to do an xray however she did indicate based on the ROM-exam that my dog currently is not in pain. She prescribe prednisone/strict crate rest with potty and water breaks. He continues to act normal, eating,drinking, pee/poop.  Having other input from people like you is wonderful! I was fortunate to find this my mistake :) thanks again baf2008!!

[ginger899]

Most often if a dog's in pain, it won't eat, and lies down, and won't like to go for walks. This sounds like you're not sure whether the vet was right. Did they x-ray him? Maybe rest him until the x-rays are done, be safe. Exercise could make it worse. Just take him for poop/pee gentle walks outside, but not far. He could have something out in his back, but it isn't too painful yet.