[Abbotshill]

Four nights ago, Lotti, our 12 year old female daschund appeared distressed and in some pain. In the morning, she was unable to get to her feet, and lay in her bed, whimpering and shuddering from time to time. We suspected a slight stroke, but the vet suggested that a disc problem was the most likely cause, gave her a pain killing injection and suggested that we simply take her home, let her rest and keep her comfortable. She has since managed to take a few faltering steps, and, with difficulty, have both bladder and bowel movements, but, otherwise, she simply lies there, moving little, showing no interest in anything or anyone around her, refusing all food, but taking an occasional drink of water. She does not appear to be in any pain, her spine is not tender to touch at any point, and we really are concerned that the problem has been misdiagnosed. So, any second opinions or suggestions would be gratefully received by her anxious owners, and her now fretting half-sister -Mitzi - an inseparable companion for the last 11 years. Please help if you can. Thank you.

[DocWill]

No Radiographs were taken? I know its more likely to be some type of spinal issue, but what kind and how bad? This is determined by x-rays. I hate to be the voice of reality but at her age,this can easily lead to that family meeting no one is ever ready to have. Spinal issues generally requires treatment with steroids pain meds and STRICT cage confinement. Very possible surgery. Not all vets opt to preform this type of challenge and quicky refer to a specialist. If these options can't be met her last option is one that is sad however humane and more than 80% of owners can't financially afford the 1200$ surgery followed by the cage confinement for a min. 4 weeks. With aggressive medicine oraly every 12 hours. I am sad to say those little dogs are all inheritant of this problem, all of them I see in the ER is tipicly spinal or ingestion of something that little hunter caught. For only inches off the ground these little guys are fast! On that note good luck with your family an decission making difficulties.

[DocWill]

Always willing to help those that need and actually want it. When it requires life changes directly effected by the family and love one, I step back from my Dr's duties and assure you as very personal side of me gathers from reading your private message, that damn dog was spoiled rotten anyway. I just said a prayer for all the other little crooked legged dogs in heaven, just so they know there is going to be added spice an spunk added to the fun. And be prepaired for her arrival.

Back to the professional doctor with funny hat, I have had only 1 other opportunity this year to fix one of those very few actually get to the sx table for many reasons just like yours.
Best wishes.

[labman]

Now that Docwill is here, I will be leaving such questions to him.

[LadyB]

I have lost two dogs to similar disc injuries (a Rottie and a large mutt), and all my reading says Dachshunds are particularly susceptible. We chose to have both put to sleep, as the surgery suggested had a very low chance of success due to their severity.