21/08/2024
Where's Shanla? IM HERE! Bring coffee!ππ
First of all, thank you. Every single one of you! These last few months have been HARD. And not regarding a work way but with our fur children!
Injuries, conditions and genetics have decided to UPRORE lately and I just want to give you all a big hug and tell you that's it's going to be ok!
Get a cup of tea because this will be a loooong post!
My little Leo broke my heart when he came inside from going toilet and was suddenly paralyzed on his left side. No warning. No pain. Just started paddling around like a boat with one paddle.
I found out soon after it's IVDD.
Whats IVDD?
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a "common" source of back pain in dogs, especially in older dogs but also in younger dogs of predisposed breeds. The severity and type of disc injury can vary widely, ranging from mild discomfort to paralysis. It's sadly in his DNA and was just a ticking little bomb that definitely blew my mind that so many breeds are impacted by this disease without knowing and it's not just limited to dashounds! IVDD is diagnosed by grades 1 to 5. Thankfully Leo was a grade 2. He peaked at a grade 3 but thankfully we could tackle this by very sticked crate rest and a very large medication plan. The other option was surgery at 15 grand. The reality of it was unreal!
Leo in the end of May had a battle and after lots of research, tears, vet appointments and physio Leo is now on the road to recovery. With all of this he also scared me with a Seizure that made him incontinent. He's now got 95% control back and I couldn't be more proud of how hard he has worked to get better! Also no more Seizures (Breaths Zen Sigh with fingers crossed!)
Now if you have read this far, thank you! If your wee one is having issues, YOUR NOT ALONE!
With this (and a little madness) me and leo have gone around EVERYWHERE and met some AMAZING people that can help! the lack of information out there is scary!!! even with basic Injuries.
And I'm super happy now to be able to offer you all my resources and knowledge I have!
Please reach out! I'm in contact with amazing physiotherapist, vets and otago petfoods stock some great products to help you along your road with anything that maybe putting a stump in that morning walk.
Leos got 4 paddles to his boat now so we are plessed that coordination is top of the list for him to start practicing! (Hes a wobbly wee thing)
Anywho, hug your pups tight, doors always open and I'm definitely keen to have a yarn if you need one!
Shanla and Leo π₯°