Rudy is slowly slipping back down hill. He is walking (although somewhat stilted), but the gleam in his eye just isn't there anymore. He is also have some bladder control issues while he is asleep. I know several of you have been through this and I sure could use your advice on how to make him as comfortable as possible.
On a happier note, Sue Stockslager, Jeri Lami, Leslie Reed and Heidi Spradling are coming to help me evaluate the puppies. We will be taking lots of pictures - so stay tuned.....
Yellow stripes and headaches.
10 years ago
6 comments:
When my boy start showing signs of his IVDD, we started with a drug similar to Rimadyl, can't remember the name. It helped for a while but as Dylan got older he needed stronger. We went to Prednisone, a full dose daily (10mg, I think) for awhile, then every other day, then half a dose every other day. It worked great. It is not without side effects. Some dogs drink tons of water, but for Dylan it made him food obsessed. We had to check his liver alot as well. On a positive note, when he came down with cancer ar 14, the prednisone actually helped keep it at bay. Also, he had a high quality glucosamine supplement. My sweet boy lived until just short of 17.
Laura, I am so sorry. I've not dealt with this (yet), but hope you are successful in keeping Rudy comfortable.
It's tough. Rimadyl helped Julie a lot until the end. She was on it on-and-off for about 6 years with no liver problems. When we last Dirk years earlier, it was before Rimadyl or at least before we knew about it (1998?).
The incontinence is annoying. We resorted to Julie wearing "blue jeans" in the house. They were girl "panties" made of a denim material that we found at PetSmart. Not too girly for a boy to wear.
I wish I could help, but all I can do is let you know I'm pulling for him. Scratches for Rudy.
Is he still on oral pred, laura? If so, give it time to work, and then decide after another week, see if he improves. Poor Rudy. I know I was scared to death twice with Kane, and slowly he came back. At 8, he got his NJP at the CWCCA specialty. So don't lose all hope, he could turn it back around. But whatever happens, you'll make the right decision for him. I still picture him riding in Kim's convertible when she got him from the shelter. :-) Lucky, lucky boy.
and on a puppy note, I'm sure I'm not the only one anxiously awaiting pix from the puppy party!!!
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