Border Collie unable to lift tail and unable to go up or down stairs

[Rena705]

Yesterday were out in the yard when suddenly our Border Collie cross, Kayleigh, let out a yelp!  I checked her over but couldn't find anything wrong.

Last night she didn't want to go for her much loved walk.

Today, she can't seem to lift her tail to defecate and she can't go up or down stairs.  She is eating normally and bathroom habits seem normal but there is something causing these symptoms and I hope you can shed some light on this.  Any help would be appreciated!!

[Rena705]

Hi Jerry!  Thanks for responding!

Kayleigh will be 8 years old in September this year.  She can walk fine but won't go up or down stairs.  The last time I picked her up she let out a squeal but then seemed fine.   I am going to take her to the vet tomorrow if I can't get her to use the stairs in the a.m.  I really hope it's nothing too serious cause she has a hard time in life as it is as she was abused as a puppy.  She is a sweet little girl and deserves to spend her life free of pain!

[Jerry_NJ]

How old is your dog?

If older the problem may be a mild spinal stroke... which the dog may recover from on its own.  

I'd just watch and help for a day to tow unless there is obvious pain.