We got bad news from our veterinarian yesterday…?
My basset hound, Maggie, is 4 years and 7 months old. I took her to the veterinarian yesterday thinking she had a urinary tract infection so the doctor did a urinalysis on her and said that I would definitely have to switch her diet since her PH is at a 9 and the proper level is supposed to be a 7. She also told me that she was going to do an x-ray on her to see if she had any kidney stones. To my relief she didn’t but the doctor took me into a private room and then showed me the x-ray depicting a more serious condition. She said she noticed an abnormality that she found in her spine. I don’t remember what the vet called it but she said that her spine is fusing together and that my dog would have to be put on Glucosamine Chondrodant that would help her with her joints but that her back had severe arthritis. She said that it could get to the point of my dog eventually becoming handicapped or possibly even paralyzed. How many people have experienced this issue and is there anything I can do to prevent it from worsening? What should I expect and how long should I expect her to lead a normal life? The vet wouldn’t say. She is my baby and even the thought of this happening to her just tears me up inside. Any advice?
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4 comments
Dances With Woofs ~ RIP,Mama ~ on March 30, 2010 at 9:27 pm
I had a dachshund mix with this. He lost the use of his rear legs at the age of 15. There was nothing else wrong with him, so I got him a doggy wheelchair and he used it for the last year of his life.
As for the glucosamine/chondroitin,the nest brand for dogs is Cosequin or Dasuquin.You should also give the dog salmon oil,as it helps with inflammation and is also great for the kidneys. If the dog is at all overweight, getting the weight off is every important so that the spine is not stressed.
Your dog is still young,so if you follow the vet’s instructions ( and do your own research as well – don’t be afraid to try alternative treatments),your dog may live a relatively normal life. She may need a doggy wheelchair, but she can be happy as can be in one.
Voice for Animals – Aspirin ( buffered) is generally safe for dogs,but not cats. It is not the same as acetaminophen,which can cause liver or kidney damage, but can also be used in dogs when under a vet’s supervision. There is even aspirin manufactured specifically for dogs!
Emily on March 30, 2010 at 9:27 pm
My parents have a basset hound that is 13 years old with severe arthritis. He takes glucosamine and an aspirin daily and it seems to help him tremendously. He’s been that way for about 5 years now. Just give her the meds and try to keep her from being too rough jumping around and stuff and She’ll hopefully be okay for a while. Prednisone may also be an option for flare-ups.
DaBasset *Ever heard of Google?* on March 30, 2010 at 9:27 pm
First of all, get a second opinion from a different vet, preferably one familiar with Basset Hounds and/or and orthopedist.
Voice for Animals on March 30, 2010 at 9:27 pm
DO NOT GIVE ASPIRIN!!!!!
Apsirin and ANY products containing acetominophen can lead to severe liver damage! If you don’t believe me, just ask your veterinarian!
Get a second opinion.