Relay-Version: version B 2.10 5/3/83; site utzoo.UUCP Posting-Version: version B 2.10.2 9/18/84 exptools; site ihuxm.UUCP Path: utzoo!watmath!clyde!cbosgd!ihnp4!ihuxm!mmst From: mmst@ihuxm.UUCP (m.s. turek) Newsgroups: net.pets Subject: Re: DOGGIE BACK PROBLEMS Message-ID: <1321@ihuxm.UUCP> Date: Thu, 3-Oct-85 11:24:17 EDT Article-I.D.: ihuxm.1321 Posted: Thu Oct 3 11:24:17 1985 Date-Received: Fri, 4-Oct-85 04:59:47 EDT Distribution: net Organization: AT&T Bell Laboratories Lines: 69 SORRY IF THIS IS A REPEAT, BUT DUE TO MACHINE/OPERATOR ERROR I DO NOT KNOW IF THIS REPLY EVER GOT TO THE NET FOR POSTING. Our Cocker Spaniel had similar symptoms (lameness in rear legs) about 2 years ago, when he was 4 years old. "Quincy's" original vet first took X-rays, diagnosed hip dysplasia, and told us to give him aspirin when they symptoms occur. Well, the symptoms were continuous by the next day, and having some knowledge of animals and several friends in the veterinary field, I found problems in this diagnosis and treatment. I obtained the X-rays and took them to my vet technician friend and a friend who is very familiar with treatments for hip dysplasia. Neither saw hip dysplasia in the X-rays. The technician pointed to the cervical (neck) vertebrae, and my other friend recommended her vet. So the next day I took Quincy to the new vet who identified the cervical vertebrae problem. Quincy was given Butazolidine as well as something called Maaulite (I'm not sure of the spelling). He was given one injection and about 5 days worth of pills. The symptoms subsided almost immediately, provided Quincy didn't exert pressure on the vertebrae by jumping or climbing stairs. Along with the drug therapy, we were to apply heat (preferably damp) to the neck area three times a day. Also, a massage similar to accupressure was applied along the vertebrae (which Quincy loved). At the end of 5 days, we returned to the vet, had more X-rays, which showed some improvement, and were given pills for 5 more days. During the drug treatment and for about 6 weeks after we could not let him climb stairs and carried him up and down. Walking was not restricted. After stopping the drugs, the only care that was given was the heat massage and to slowly re-introduce some activity. Although Quincy didn't (as far as we know) suffer any injury as did your dog, I would still opt for this type of treatment before surgery. The night before Quincy exhibited these symptoms we were playing fetch in the house. He may have slid on the kitchen floor and caused something to slip out of place. The most important thing we learned is the need for a knowledgeable and patient vet. Our first vet who diagnosed hip dysplasia, was describing surgery to correct the problem. However, if there really is a tumor or some obstruction, then surgery may be needed. Just some more information -- Since we had received conflicting diagnoses, I wanted to get a third veterinary opinion. My vet technician friend recommended an orthopedic vet specialist. He concurred with the vertebrae diagnosis and treatment and explained that certain breeds of dogs are prone to spinal problems in different areas: neck, middle back, etc. Some of these are poodles, dachshounds, cockers. Anyway, I hope this makes you feel better. Going through this experience of improper diagnosis caused me to realize how important that second opinion is. I was fortunate in having some background from my volunteer work in wildlife rehabilitation and some contacts in the veterinary field. I hope that those who don't have such and advantage aren't willing to blindly accept what their vet tells them on serious problems. By the way, should anyone in the western Chicago suburbs want either of the veterinarian's names and locations that properly treated this condition, let me know. Marla Turek Brought to you by Super Global Mega Corp .com