CockersOnline Forum
Cocker Specific Discussion => General Cocker Spaniel Discussion => Topic started by: Darwin on March 04, 2016, 04:08:07 PM
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We desperately need come COL magic this weekend.
As I type Darwin is under going spinal surgery at the RVC.
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Come on Darwin - we are all here for you sending big hugs and positive messages.
The power of COL is awesome. :luv:
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healing thoughts are on their way to Darwin. :luv:
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Thinking of Darwin :luv: Sending lots and lots of positive healing thoughts
Sending these for you too :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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my first cocker had spinal surgery, hope it all goes well for Darwin, please don't be too shocked when you go to visit for the first time, it was quite a shock for us to see Kizzy after the op but they recover pretty well :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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Lots of prayers for you Darwin.
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:bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: from here too xx
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All good wishes for him.
We did have a corgi that came through the same op at 10 years old. And had a few good years afterwards, so fingers crossed.
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:bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: sending positive thoughts
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Thinking of you both, hope all goes well :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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Lots of healing thoughts for Darwin and mega hugs for you. :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: Diana xx
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Sending Healing thoughts and loads of :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
Loads of us have spent time in the RVC waiting room, they are the best and he is in good hands.
Sharon.
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Sending lots of positive thoughts :luv:
:bigarmhug:
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:bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: for Darwin! Crossing fingers, toes and paws and wishing him a speedy recovery!!!
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Saying a prayer for Darwin and hoping for the best possible outcome and speedy recovery :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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I think we're currently very shell shocked. Everything has happened so fast.
This morning Darwin had lost all use of this back legs.
OH had Darwin at the Vets before 9am and bought him down to the RVC by 11am.
The MRI was completed by 2.30 and we're now waiting a call that surgery has been completed.
Tomorrow will be the first test to see what feeling he has in his back legs,
I started working in an admin role at the RVC in January ( nothing to do with the hospital) Until today I hadn't realized how lucky we are to live so close to such wonderful facilities with such amazing staff.
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Oh goodness, what happened? :'(
Sending all positive and healing thoughts from here for Darwin and some hugs for you too. :bigarmhug:
Sounds like he is definitely in the best place :-\
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Many postive healing thoughts for Darwin
big :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: to you.
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Sending :bigarmhug: for you what a shock.
Keeping everything crossed for successful surgery and healing thoughts for Darwin :luv:
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Keeping you both in our thoughts
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Prayers and healing thoughts for Darwin :luv:
Hugs for you all too. xx
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Come on Darwin, lots of hugs your way xx
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hope all is well :bigarmhug:
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Sending all the positive healing thoughts in the world to Darwin.
Hope he is alright. Thinking of you.
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Positive thoughts and love for Darwin xxxx :luv:
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Lots of positive thoughts coming your way xx
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Just wondering how Darwin is today. Keeping everything crossed for better news :luv:
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how is Darwin today, everything crossed, there are plenty of people on here who have been through what you are going through right now who can give you advice and support :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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Sending positive and healing prayers for Darwin and hoping all has gone well.
Gwyneth & Colin xx
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Thank you everyone , it really helps.
The Vet eventually phoned early afternoon.
Darwin had a good night and the initial signs are positive, but it far to early to tell
So we'll just have to see now he progresses over the next 48 hrs
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Glad to hear things are progressing well. Hope he continues to improve. ;)
It is soooo nerve-wracking waiting for news though. :-\
Come on Darwin, hurry up and get better :luv:
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We're all pulling for you and Darwin - the news sounds good so far, so sending out positive vibes that he'll continue to make a good recovery!! :luv:
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Sending positive thoughts for Darwin and yourselves
:bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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:bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: Positive thoughts and prayers x
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Glad he is doing well, keeping our fingers and paws crossed.
:bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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Positive and healing thoughts for Darwin. :luv:
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I'm keeping everything crossed for Darwin. Sending positive thoughts
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Like everyone I hope this turns out well.
RVC saved my dog last year after he stole and swallowed a whole sweet-corn cob.
I'd be interested to know exactly what caused your problem.
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Like everyone I hope this turns out well.
RVC saved my dog last year after he stole and swallowed a whole sweet-corn cob.
I'd be interested to know exactly what caused your problem.
I just googled this Alan - I had no idea that they were so dangerous! Definately something I'll watch for as we have quite a few cornfields around us. Glad it had a good outcome in your case!
Anymore news on Darwin this morning?
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Been away for a day or two and just read this, Darwin please recover quickly and feel the love from all on COL. :bigarmhug:
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Don't think the corn fields are a problem.
This happened at my son's barbecue. Somebody left a plate on the ground.
6cm x 2cm, swallowed whole. Biggest thing he'd ever removed from a dog's stomach said the surgeon.
Also a barbecue sausage in there.
Complete recovery in 3-weeks but fatal without surgery.
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He's in the best hands - hope he continues to improve and is home soon
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Fingers crossed for him.
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We had an update this morning.
He had a comfortable night and has starting eating
He's got feeling in his back legs but needs to regain movement in his back legs.
So so worried. So desperate to see him. If I can't see him tomorrow hopefully they'll txt me a photo.
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Glad to hear that he had a good night,
come on Darwin we are all pulling for you
:bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: for you and your Mum
lots of COL postive healing thoughts being sent.
:luv: :luv:
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Lots of positive thoughts for your Darwin :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
Lesley and Dylan
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I have only just seen this, sending lots of healing and positive thoughts to Darwin :luv: :luv: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
Stephanie, George and Hamish xxx
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Everything crossed for your lovely boy and praying you get some positive news today xxx
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Thinking of you both, hang in there Darwin :luv:
:bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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:bigarmhug:
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Oh Darwin am sending love and healing thoughts.
Love Julie
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Thinking of you both :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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I've seen my Darwin and had a little wag from his tail, :cool4: which means much more than cocker hugs and kisses, which I had as well.
Popped into to the hospital before I started work and the had a call later and it was arranged I could pop in to see Darwin after I finished work at lunch time.
Yesterday we had been very worried / feeling negative as he needed to have some movement in his legs.
I had expected to be seeing Darwin in a cage linked up to tubes etc.
But Darwin and a vet nurse collected me from reception, He had a walking sling to support his back legs. He waged his tail and looked so so happy to see me. The nurse thinks there may have been a slight movement of his left back leg. They're starting physio today
I spent 10 mins on the floor with him. He's being his usual left interested in everything that was happening outside the room we were in. He was collected by 2 nurses and Happily "walked" down the corridor for his next lot of meds.
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:clapping: :clapping: Well done Darwin, what a brave boy
That's a lovely update, so glad he is back on his feet now.
Hoping it won't be too long before he is well enough to come home to you :luv:
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:clapping: Excellent!
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That is good news :D
So happy for you and Darwin :luv:
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:banana:
That's great to hear! What a brave little soldier he is! Keeping everything crossed that he'll be back home and bouncing around very soon.
Take care Darwin!!! And keep us posted!
:bigarmhug:
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That is sounding good, well done Darwin, fingers and paws crossed, he is home with you very soon :luv: :luv: :bigarmhug:
Stephanie, George and Hamish xxx
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Fantastic News :clapping: :banana: :clapping:
I'm sure the physio will get him moving even more.
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Great news!
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Hope Darwin continues to improve :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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Sounds like Darwin is doing well :D
Hope the physio helps him too :-*
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Great to hear you have visited and sending love to you both
Julie
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Brave boy Darwin :luv:
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How lovely that you were able to visit Darwin and see him looking relaxed at the vet hospital. That in itself must have been so reassuring, and it sounds like he's making good progress too :D
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wonderful news
what a great boy Darwin is :luv:
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So glad Darwin is doing well, keep up the good work little man :luv:
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So pleased to hear your latest news. Sounds good. These guys are so amazing, your little boy is in the best possible place. Keeping everything crossed. xxx's from Maggie and Poppy
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That is great news. Keep up the good work Darwin, we're all praying for you here.
Gwyneth & Colin xx
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Thank you everyone for your support, it's really helping.
I managed to see Darwin again mid morning. He seemed even brighter.
I gave him a light brush and took him a couple of soft toys. :luv: Every cocker needs a pink rabbit and a penguin to keep him company
I've just had a call from the Vet.
They're no longer giving him intravenous pain relief,
He's still not weeing for himself, which he needs to be doing before he comes home
He's movement is very very slight , but that's still a positive as he had lost all movement in his back legs on Friday.
They're going to try a hydro session tomorrow.
But the negative which I think is upsetting me, is Darwin was really distressed after I left today. Now when they get him out of his cage to try and get him to wee, he thinks he's going to see me, so doesn't wee.
So I can't go and see him tomorrow :016:
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You poor thing, that is sooo hard :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
Lesley and Dylan
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Bea was in the RVC in June, we made the decision not to see her unless the Vets thought is was a good idea.
With her stress could make her situation worse(medically) and she is very much my Girl and I know she would stress after I left, it was not a easy decision to make but I made it in the hope that doing so would mean she would be home quicker.
Hopefully you will be able to see him again soon, I know how hard it is waiting for the updates as I would only get two calls a day from the team.
Keeping everything crossed.
Sharon.
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That's got me choked, I really do feel for you, can't imagine what it must be like having to leave him. He sounds like a brave little lad though and is quite obviously in the very best place, I'm sure he'll be back home with you in a few days. All the best and lots of Cocker cuddles for Darwin from all of us when you see him! :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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I can understand him being distressed and I know not seeing him is for the best, yet it doesn't make it any easier. But to be at work on the RVC site, less than 100yds from him is going to be so so hard.
But within my offices a couple of the nurses pop in and out of the hospital all day so they'll give me live updates. One of them went to see him as she finished work today and took him some cooked chicken :luv:. Darwin will now be her friend for life.
I think they're going to video the hydro session as they have an underwater camera. It's going to be interesting to see how he reacts to the water as he normally walks around puddles.
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when Kizzy had the op she wasn't happy being in the vets and I had to take her chicken because she wouldn't eat, but she came home after about a week I think and from their came on in leaps :luv: , I had to massage her legs and teach her to walk again she was 10 when she had the op and died at almost 14 . get yourself a longish scarf for under his tummy to help him walk when he gets home. it will be a slow few weeks of improvments but hopefully he will be fine
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I know it must be really hard not seeing him :'( but if it helps him improve quicker, it's got to be a good thing :luv: Continued best wishes from me :bigarmhug:
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I can understand how frustrating it must be being so close to him.
Are you able to see him less frequently say every other day as surely he would not expect to see you every time he comes out of the crate ?
I bet he is getting plenty of cuddles with his chicken :luv:
Sharon
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I know it's hard not to visit- they wouldn't let us visit the corgi for a week- but try to stay strong. You have a bit of good news to hang on to. :blink:
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I had an update mid morning.
He's strong, happy, alert
They're not starting hydro yet and the disc damage was so deep it needs to have more time to heel / recover.
The level of movement has improved on the left side and he has some movement on the right side. It's only slight but it's positive as its movement.
We had a conversation about him coming home !!
He just needs to clean to wee again.
How am I going to cope with my lovely Darwin as we hopefully teach him to walk again
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Some good signs there, hopefully there will be improvements each day and it will not be long before he is home with you :luv:
I'm sure when the happy time comes and he is with you, you will cope with whatever needs to be done to help him.
Here are some :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: to help you.
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:bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
Sending lots of these for you and Darwin. Your latest update sounds positive. Everything crossed for you and your boy.
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Darwin is back home :cool4: :cool4:
Discharge took over 2 hrs . Darwin was so excited. No one seems to have told him that he can't jump!
I still can't belive that at this time last Friday he hasn't even had the surgery . We're so so lucky that he's still with us as he had three disc prolaspe. He's my miracle dog :luv:
How the hard work begins .
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That's absolutely BRILLIANT!!! I think you had us all worried for a while! So pleased its all turned out ok and wish your brave little soldier a really speedy recovery, I'm sure he's going to be a teenie bit spoilt this weekend!!! ;) (and I should think you deserve to spoil yourself a bit too after all that drama!!)
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That is just the best news :banana: :banana:
So pleased he is back home with you where he belongs :luv:
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That is great news - you must be over the moon to have him home so soon :banana:
Like you say, now the hard work begins :P
But I am sure he will improve rapidly now he is back home. :D
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Fantastic news. :banana: :clapping: :banana:
I'm sure you will spend a lot of your time now asking him to calm down :005:
As others have said I'm sure he will improve so much more at home.
Sharon.
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Wonderful news :D
I hope you all had a good night and are feeling refreshed this morning. I know it will be hard work over the coming weeks, but it will all be worth it.
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So pleased with this fantastic news for you all - let's hope he goes from strength to strength.
:clapping: :clapping: :cool4:
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:banana: :banana: :banana: :clapping:
Wonderful wonderful news well done Darwin
Mum is going to spoil you rotten I bet
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Be prepared to be knackered! I put Lyla in a wire crate and dragged her from room to room so she never left out. Three things I can advise 1) do anything and everything to slow him down. 2) if you have been advised to use a towel under his stomach, use a scarf, it's less bulky and longer so you don't have to bend. 3) we were told that we could let Lyla sit on the settee with us as long as she didn't jump and she was more inclined to stay still by our side. Oh and get a comfy harness. No leads and collars. We bought the perfect fit one. :blink:
Its very tiring so do have a rest yourself when you can.
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Thank you every for your support over the past week.
I think your advice and support Sheryl, over the next couple of months is going to be invaluable.
We all had a good nights sleep last night, but I'm already exhausted, probably from the stress more than anything and have been quite emotional.
At the moment it's a learning curve for all of us.
We were given a support sling, it's already been washed several times!! so I might cup up an old towel as a spare. I've picked up a short lead for his harness, which is making it easier.
I'm on the look out for a new / better harness as we've currently got the Ezy dog chest plate harness.
I think once the novelty of being home Darwin is going to find his crate rest difficult
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So pleased to hear that Darwin is home. You both have a long road ahead, but you will get there. Thanks for the update.
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wonderful news and yes the towel replacements for slings sound like a superb idea - hope the time while he recovers goes quickly
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Try a scarf...it's more manoeuvrable than a towel and less bulky for between their legs x
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I' ve cut up an old beach towel into 3 long strips. Seemed much easier to use than the sling and what ever happens to it doesn't matter and it's easy to replace.
At least we've had a dry day so we're started to get use to getting Darwin in and out to the garden without getting wet.
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It does take time...it's a long slow way back but at least you're on the road! Good luck.
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Week one of crate rest over.
We're so exhausted, Darwin has been extremely good, but finds the afternoon the hardest, as that's when he expects a long walk. It's a long day as he seems to need to go out at 5.30am, but if that means we have a clean & dry day, it's well worth the early start.
Once he's in the garden he forgets that we're with him supporting his back legs with a sling. It's like having a string puppet on steroids, he's whizzing around so fast. This morning he was trying to chase blackbirds at 5.30am.
We had his staples removed this morning. Our own Vet was very impressed with his progress. When you hold Darwin so he can stand, the Vet said he was correcting his own posture which is a really good sign. But it most import to make sure he doesn't do to much at this stage.
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Sounds like hard work but it must make it easier when you can can see you're making progress. Its fantastic that he's making such a good recovery - well done to you and ofcourse well done to your little hero, what a brave little lad he's been!
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'Correcting his own posture' is exactly what we were told to look for - and when the corgi did we knew the nerve messages were getting through and the operation had been a success. :blink: It seems such a good omen.
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Keep up the good work both Darwin and mummy :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: x x x
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Only just caught up with Darwin's progress. We are thrilled at how he is doing. It sounds like hard work but well worth the effort. Hope all will be well again very soon and Darwin will be back to his normal self.
Take care,
Colin & Gwyneth
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great news with Darwin's progress well done :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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We've survived two and half weeks of crate rest, or imprisonment as I'm sure Darwin thinks it is.
He's setting stronger and on the right flooring he can just about walk on. He's so so keen to escape his prison and finds the afternoon really tough.
We've been totally exhausted, and my back which I've had previous problems with has gone, but the long weekend has meant that OH has done his turn, which has given my back a rest.
Last week he had his first physio appointment at the RVC. He was high as a kite, probably the excitement of being able to escape for the afternoon . The physio was quite worried about him as he was totally uncontrollable and bouncing down the corridor.
In another week we'll be seeing the consultant but I've managed to arrange a hydro appointment before hand, so hopefully that will use up some of Darwin's energy so that he's more controllable when he see the consultant.
We're looking forward to when we no longer need to walk him using the sling to support his back, it'll make it mush easier. I'm trying to plan for the next stage. Small space rest. Puppy pen or baby pen or what? would be lovely to have something we can move outside to give Darwin some time outside in the garden.
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Phew! So pleased he is doing so well - I don't envy you trying to keep a boisterous cocker quiet. They don't know the meaning of the word.
Fingers crossed he continues to improve and gets on well at the consultants.
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It does sound like hard work, you're obviously doing a great job! Glad to hear he's making such good progress, although I can imagine you've still got your work cut out for a bit, but it'll all be worth it in the end!
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So glad to hear he is doing well
sending lot of cocker :bigarmhug:
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He defanately sounds like he's on the mend :D
Would a play pen help for the next stage, that way he can move a little and not be in a crate ?
I've had a quick look on eBay and they conveniently leave the sizes off, so had a look elsewhere and found,
http://www.petplanet.co.uk/product.asp?dept_id=5966&pf_id=63176&utm_source=google&utm_medium=shopping&utm_campaign=10to20&gclid=CJqfi8H848sCFUqdGwodFfoMNw
Not cheap but there are plenty of company's that do pens.
Sharon.
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Thanks. I had seen that one.
I really need one with a door at ground level, nothing for him to jump/hop over, as we've had to cover the edge/lip of this crate as he's doesn't hop in very well he's tried and has managed to get one of this back paws trapped. Also given the opportunity he wouldn't think twice about jump over, which he's not meant to be doing.
I'll need to find something that's easily portable, so I can move to from house to garden on my own etc. I have had a look at baby play pens on ebay, but they're a little small.
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Great he's doing well :blink:
You've probably seen this? In case you haven't (it's not massive - I have one), but no lip at gate and easy to move about: http://www.argos.co.uk/m/static/Product/partNumber/2276234.htm
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I had the predicesor to the one Emilyoliver has posted, it looks very similar and only has a small metal piece to step over at ground level, you can also join another one too it but a bit expensive.
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Just caught up on this thread - great to hear he's doing well. Hope the hydrotherapy goes well. We have seen amazing results at our centre with spinal cases. We had a working cocker who couldn't use his hind legs following extensive spinal surgery but that cocker spirit pulled him through and after intensive swim sessions was walking again:
https://www.facebook.com/BluewatersPetCentre/videos?ref=page_internal
A good page to have a read through is this one:
https://www.facebook.com/For-the-love-of-Spooky-Boo-580511458781320/?ref=ts&fref=ts
This is Spooky, a lurcher who comes to our centre. She had an accident at the start of the year and her prognosis wasn't good and looked unlikely she'd be able to walk unaided and now she comes trotting into the therapy centre by herself. It's been so rewarding for us to see dogs get better.
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Did he slip a disc my cocker probably slipped one nearly three weeks ago hardly moved foe 20 hours
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Just caught up on this thread - great to hear he's doing well. Hope the hydrotherapy goes well. We have seen amazing results at our centre with spinal cases. We had a working cocker who couldn't use his hind legs following extensive spinal surgery but that cocker spirit pulled him through and after intensive swim sessions was walking again:
https://www.facebook.com/BluewatersPetCentre/videos?ref=page_internal - Higgins video should appear on this link, about half way down the videos page.
A good page to have a read through is this one:
https://www.facebook.com/For-the-love-of-Spooky-Boo-580511458781320/?ref=ts&fref=ts
This is Spooky, a lurcher who comes to our centre. She had an accident at the start of the year and her prognosis wasn't good and looked unlikely she'd be able to walk unaided and now she comes trotting into the therapy centre by herself. It's been so rewarding for us to see dogs get better.
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Just seen this pen it looks light so should be easier to move from house to garden.
http://www.petplanet.co.uk/product_group.asp?dept_id=303&pg_id=3482&utm_source=silverpop&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Outdoors&spMailingID=51037049&spUserID=MTczNzIxMzc5MTMxS0&spJobID=883871859&spReportId=ODgzODcxODU5S0
No step through the door as well, but a bit too small I would think.
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Just caught up on this thread - great to hear he's doing well. Hope the hydrotherapy goes well. We have seen amazing results at our centre with spinal cases. We had a working cocker who couldn't use his hind legs following extensive spinal surgery but that cocker spirit pulled him through and after intensive swim sessions was walking again:
https://www.facebook.com/BluewatersPetCentre/videos?ref=page_internal
A good page to have a read through is this one:
https://www.facebook.com/For-the-love-of-Spooky-Boo-580511458781320/?ref=ts&fref=ts
This is Spooky, a lurcher who comes to our centre. She had an accident at the start of the year and her prognosis wasn't good and looked unlikely she'd be able to walk unaided and now she comes trotting into the therapy centre by herself. It's been so rewarding for us to see dogs get better.
Thank you for the links. So lovely to see how other does have progressed and recovered. I'm looking forward to seeing if Darwin enjoys the Hydro sessions. He's not really a water dog, would walk around puddles and only enjoys baths because he likes the hairdryer afterwards
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This one is 91cm high and you can fit more than one together.
http://www.petplanet.co.uk/product.asp?dept_id=774&pf_id=63422&ptm_source=google&ptm_medium=shopping&ptm_campaign=10to20&gclid=CO-gqPuB7ssCFawy0wodxe8Mag
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Photo's hopefully to follow tomorrow.
OH is going to be making 4 freestanding picket fences that can be linked together etc, so we can have various configurations in the garden.
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Tuesday was a very special day.
Darwin was clinically discharged from the RVC.
It's totally amazing that a month ago he was classed a paraplegic.
We still have a long journey to recovery and for Darwin to learn to walk properly again.
But the most important thing is he's recovered from the disc surgery and we've all just about survived a month of total crate rest.
We've now got to the stage of on a good walking surface we don't need to use a sling to support his back legs, but still needs to the on lead in the garden when he does his business. Loads of home physio and weekly hydro appointments. We will start to build up to very short ( 5 mins ) on lead walks. But Darwin needs to learn to walk very slowly as that will enable him to place his back legs properly as walk well.
Thank you everyone for your support during the past month.
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Wonderful news - what a brave little star he is.
Love to Darwin
Julie and Ollie
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So pleased for you all,such a lovely update. he has been in my prayers. Darwin, you are such a brave soldier :luv: :luv: Here's hoping for continued good updates ;)
Stephanie, George and Hamish xxx
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Have been following Darwin's progress, such good news that he's on the road to recovery :luv:
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Fantastic news :clapping: :banana: :clapping:
So glad he is improving and you are all doing so well
Sharon.
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Thats just brilliant news! He is indeed a brave little boy and you've done a brilliant job nursing him all this time! All the best for all of yoz and a special cocker :bigarmhug: for the little hero!
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:banana: :banana: :banana: :bigarmhug:
made my day well done brave Darwin
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So plesed to hear Darcys dping so wellxx
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Great news! I am so pleased for you and Darwin :luv:
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So pleased and happy for you all. He is indeed a brave little chap and so lucky to have folk like you to look after him :luv:
:bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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Great news :D
Keep improving Darwin, you have amazing owners looking after you and helping you on the road to recovery :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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So pleased that everything is progressing well😃😃
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fabulous news :luv:
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Brilliant news. Such a long way in such a short time. So, so pleased for all of you.
Take care.
Gwyneth & Colin
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Wonderful news.
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Brilliant news - the milestones are such wonderful things especially when we take so much for granted normally
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Well done all of you :bigarmhug:
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Great news :D
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So pleased to hear Darwin is well on the road to recovery x
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It's now 7 months since Darwin came home from hospital.
I've been meaning to post an update but there never seems time, so this is just a quick little update
He's had a wonderful summer enjoying the garden and short walks. Are aim is to safely allow him "to be more dog"!
His recovery has been amazing, he's probably at 75%, which is going to be as good as it's gets. He's a young dog at heart but in an old body!
When most people see him they don't belive that back in March he was completely paralysed
He has little muscle tone on his back legs and the back left legs is especially weak, his hydro ( swimming sessions ) are helping. Sometimes you can notice more by the the ways he stands other times less so.
I had been warned that it would be exhausting but this past seven months have been the most exhausting and challenging time of our lives, are lives have changed dramatically as everything has been focused around Darwin. We're now hopefully trying to reducate ourselves to sleep and not wait for him to cry, 4.30 am normally. One strange side effect has been Darwin's nightmares when he's totally over tired. It's was Steven King Zombie Dog howling at 2.30am at least 3 nights a week.
Normally most mornings we mange a 20mins walk of about 0.7 of mile. In the past we would have been walking at a 15mins per mile pace. In the afternoon we'll do the same distance but at a much more slower pace as were not pushed for time. He's not allowed to go up/down any stairs or steps. I can't see him being allowed off lead as if he rushes too much or doesn't focus his back legs are likely to give way.
Today was a major step towards normality. Darwin went to kennels! Only from 10am until 3.30. It's a step in the right direction. He was fine and as he's always loved kennels he settled into the routine perfectly. Hes was tried and hopefully no zombie dog nightmares tonight
I'll try and post some photos if his hydro sessions
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:clapping: :banana: :clapping:
Darwin is a very lucky boy, I'm sure he would not have got this far without your dedication, it sounds absolutely exhausting for you all.
I hope the Zombie Dog nightmares fade very soon, it's so nice to hear how you are all getting on.
You are one very dedicated owner who clearly adores Darwin,as I'm sure he you.
Sharon.
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How lovely to hear that Darwin is doing so well and, most importantly, enjoying himself. You've done amazingly well with him. I can't begin to imagine what the initial shock and the long recovery since has been like for you, but I think you both need to give yourselves a big pat on the back :D
Slightly different scenario with a friend's working Cocker, Oscar. He had various elbow and cruciate problems when young that left him on restricted exercise. His owners found that for him, being walked on lead most of the time and then being let off lead at the local rabbit warren for a few minutes to sniff and stick his head down rabbit holes, worked really well. Because he was sniffing he wasn't charging about. He's 13 now and still loving that routine and enjoying life. So I think that even with really restricted exercise there's no reason why a previously active dog can't still have a very good quality of life.
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Lovely to read this update on Darwin
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So lovely to hear Darwin is doing so well and being a happy active boy again. :luv:
well done to his wonderful Mum and Dad
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A big well done to you and Darwin, it is warming to hear that things are getting better.
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Delighted to hear this news from you.
It's been very interesting to read this topic and see the outcome.
Sounds as if you will be able to carry on a pretty good life. That's great.
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Great news about Darwin's progress and how his life has improved. Sending :bigarmhug: to his wonderful mom and dad for your support and patience over the past months. Well done you.
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I can't belive that it's only just over a week since my last update.
We've just come back from the emergency out of hours clinic at the Royal Vet College.
For the last 24hrs Darwin just hadn't seemed right. It's as if he's relapsed to how he was back in May
It appears that he's got a knee problem and back pain. So he's been dosed up to the eyeballs and we'll go to our own vets tomorrow and we'll see what he says. I expect we'll be back at the Vet College for an MRI so we can get a full understanding of the issues. What ever happens we really want to try and manage without more surgery.
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I hope this is a small set back for Darwin, you have worked so hard to get him back on his feet.
Keeping my fingers crossed and sending :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: to you all.
Sharon.
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oh dear, fingers crossed here for Darwin
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So sorry to read this - sending lots and lots of :bigarmhug: and keeping everything crossed that its nothing that's going to need more surgery!!
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Fingers paws and toes crossed, will also offer a little prayer :luv:
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Everything crossed it's just a little bump in the road. :bigarmhug: for you and Darwin.
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Sorry to read this, hope Darwin is ok and the meds help make him more comfortable X
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Poor Darwin :'( Sending lots of :bigarmhug: for you all xx
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So sorry to read your update, poor Darwin.
Hoping he can be helped, :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: for you all :luv:
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Sending :bigarmhug: to you both for today.
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Sending over lots of positive and healing thoughts for Darwin :luv: :luv: :bigarmhug:
Stephanie, Geoorge and Hamish xxx
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I took Darwin to our own vets this morning.
They're not overly worries about his knee problem. A luxcating patella, but only grade 1. We haven't previously noticed any problem and it could be linked in to his spinal problems.
He has spinal pain in the area surrounding his three ruptured vertebrae, which is concerning, but not uncommon. So its a week of complete crate rest and then well see how things are.
Darwin is already completely bored. So if any one has any idea of how I can keep him I'm not keen on giving him a kong.
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Can't help with the boredom issue, but hoping and praying a good rest makes all the difference. :bigarmhug:
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We've had a weekly check up at the Vets, but with the senior partner
The good news is he doesn't think there's a knee problem
But it's not just a relaspe, it's another ruptured disc, so that the 4th! It's not pressing on his spine so should heal on its own, no need for an MRI or surgery at present. Just 8 weeks of cage rest, with a check up in four weeks.
That means that by xmas day ( freedom hopefully) Darwin will have spent 15 weeks of the last 9 months on cage rest.
It's been a very difficult week as it's so demoralising reliasing we've done so so much but we can't prevent another disc going, it'll just be a case of when. We've made the decision that we wont do another spinal surgery
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Big hugs :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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So hard for you, and Darwin, but hopefully rest will do the trick x
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O'h no, -poor Darwin!! You must both be crawling the walls with frustration!!! Lots of :bigarmhug: and good wishes for a good recovery!!
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Poor Darwin :016: sending over lots of healing thoughts. Fingers crossed, that the cage rest does the trick, :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :luv:
Stephanie, George and Hamish xxx
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Poor Darwin :luv:
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My heart goes out to you. I really hope that a few more weeks rest is all that Darwin needs to put everything right.
Thinking of you both.
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Thinking of you and Darwin and
lots of cocker :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: from Honey and Megan
and me
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Just to say I too am thinking of you and sending gentle hugs to Darwin
Julie and Ollie dog
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We've been have a really difficult time.
Darwin's mobility isn't very good at all. Also he's been really struggling with his crate rest.
We rushed back to the vets on Wednesday expecting to have to say goodbye to him, but he's still with us thankfully Every vertabrae in Darwin's spine is effected and surgery is no longer an option as it would not give much improvement.
The outlook isn't good as the vet started to talk about Darwin's quality of life. As a result were reducing his period of cage rest. So maybe we can get a balance between Darwin mobility and his happiness .
So when one of us can sit with / supervise we're allowing him to spend time in his day bed instead of the pop up crate we had been using in the lounge during the day. He seems so much happier, he obviously was depressed being on crate rest. Additionally instead of trying to walk in circles around the garden until he does his business were taking him for mini walks. He was virtually bouncing off the walls with excitement once we mentioned "walk".
We're just going to take one day at a time and hopefully we can all enjoy what little time we have left with Darwin
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I'm so sorry, my heart goes out to you. This must be so hard for you and I am hoping and praying that Darwin enjoys his mini walks for a long long time yet.
Thinking of you and Darwin.
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That is a sad update, I really hope that you can find a balance that gives you a lot more time with your special boy. xx
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Thinking of you and Darwin :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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Sorry to read your sad update
Sending positive vibes and :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: for you :luv:
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Am so sorry to hear this (I met a couple in the summer where one of them was disabled and thus rode a bike for his needs while his wife rode her bike ahead of him pulling a trailer/buggy thing with a little cocker in who had similar problem to Darwin - the little cocker thus managed to get out and about with his owners and enjoyed the trips out with them)
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I cannot find the right words to say how sorry I am to read this, but I know that your decision to give Darwin a quality of life and take each days as it comes is the right one.
Embrace each moment, your are giving Darwin, all the love and support and your darling boy will know that as somehow are little friends do know that we are doing the best for them always.
Your friends at COL are here for you.
Julie
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So very sorry to read that Darwin is not recovering as well as you (and all of us) had hoped. You're right that it has to be his quality of life - wishing you lots of lovely times ahead with Darwin :luv:
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Sorry to hear this - thinking of you x
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Poor Darwin, thinking of you both :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
Lesley and Dylan
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Thinking of you and Darwin, treasure every moment
:bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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Another one here thinking of you and Darwin.
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sending you and Darwin the biggest :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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Sorry to hear this sending love and prayers for you bothxx
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Sorry to hear this sending love and prayers for you bothxx
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Sorry to hear this sending love and prayers for you bothxx
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So sorry. Enjoy every moment 💜🐾
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Sorry to hear your update. Sending continued healing and positive thoughts for Darwin :luv: :luv: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
Stephanie, George and Hamish xxx
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So very very sad to read about Darwin :'( :'(
I hope you can spend some quality time together :bigarmhug:
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So sorry to hear the outcome isn't what you hoped, how heart-breaking. Thinking of you Darwin, sending you lots of hugs. :bigarmhug:
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So sorry to read this, you've both been through such a lot and its so sad that Darwin's not recovering as well as we'd all hoped. Sending :bigarmhug: to you both and hope that you can still enjoy good times together.
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Sending love and hugs to you both.
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Sending love and hugs to you and to Darwin ..... :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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It's now 2 weeks since my last update.
Darwin is so much happier now that's he's not on total cage rest. He doesn't have much energy but just wants to sleep in his day bed.
He's developed an arch / curve to his back and seems to walk as if he's a slinky, he's tail just doesn't stop whilst he's on his 5 minute works :luv:
We're finding it hard to adjust that he's now an oldie at age 7. Due to the nerve damaged caused by his relaspe and our lives are now totally focused around managing his bowel movements. Also once I get home from work at lunch time I can't really leave him, he needs to be supervised and if I'm not in sight he'll get out of his bed and can easily fall over
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Oh bless him, all I can say to you is I feel that you are giving him a better quality of life at this very sad stage in his little life, and we know our little cockers, he understands the love and commitment you give him everyday, that is what he gives back to you :luv:
Sending positive thoughts and a gentle hug to Darwin.
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It's seems as though we go full circle in life - as a baby we need constant care and attention plus sleep a lot - as we get old and infirm so the level of care increases and sleep takes over once again. My Grandma was like this for around 18 months before she died.
I'm sorry Darwin isn't improving. It sounds as though he is getting the very best of care and loving his walks :D long may it continue for you and him - more happy memories to make yet xx
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I'm so pleased to be posting an update today, as because everything that's happened in the past 11 months we never believed that Darwin would be celebrating his 8th birthday today.
Our last vet visit was just before Xmas. The vet was very surprised with Darwin's progress as a month previously we had nearly been at a stage of saying good bye to him. Even since Xmas he seems slightly stronger and much happier, he's pottering around the house much more and seems more interested in every day activities .
Yet every day is a challenge as due to nerve damage he's no longer clean in the house.
I'll post a couple of photos later today
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Happy birthday Darwin,enjoy your day with your lovely caring owners :bigarmhug: :birthday:
Lesley and Dylan
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O'h what a lovely update!! Happy Birthday Darwin, what a brave lad you are, soooo happy to hear you're perking up again. Enjoy your birthday!! :bigarmhug: from Jayne & Humphrey xx
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Bless him! Happy birthday sweetheart. X
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Happy Birthday Darwin xxx
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Oh my little sweetheart do have a wonderful and very special birthday.
:birthday: and lots of :bigarmhug:
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Oh Darwin, you wonderful boy. Wishing you the best birthday ever.
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Happy Birthday Darwin. :luv: :luv: :birthday:
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:birthday: Darwin sweetheart. Hope you have a lovely day with your very caring owners. You have all been through so much in the last few months. Sending :bigarmhug:
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:birthday: Darwin you little sweetheart :luv:
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:birthday: Darwin :luv: you put up with so much and you are still a baby really :bigarmhug:
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Happy Birthday Darwin, hope you've had a lovely day sweetie xx
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Oh bless you Darwin, wishing you a very Happy Birthday :luv: :luv:
Stephanie, George and Hamish xxx
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Happy Birthday Darwin :luv: :luv: :luv:
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Happy birthday Darwin, you are obviously so loved and cared for, our amber is also 8
This year with no health problems as yet but I dread the day she does get any ,
Love to you all :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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Happy Birthday Darwin,We hope youll be running around soon.
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I know I'm a little late, but happy belated Birthday Darwin, I'm sure you are getting lots of cuddles. Sending you lots of well wishes too xx
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Today is a very special day. As it's Spinal Op plus 500 Days
Everyday is a challenge but equally rewarding as Darwin seems so happy with his limitations.
In the past 3 months we've managed 2 separate 2 night stays in kennels, which Darwin totally loved. And it gave us a little respite, which I really needed!
Darwin is still enjoying his brief 5 min walks and spends as much time as possible sunbathing in the garden
We know his condition is going to be life limiting,it's been so so hard accepting it. I wish someone at work ( the RVC) could make him better, but sadly it's not possible. Whilst he's still happy and has his current level of mobility will take everyone as it comes
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Hi I haven't been online for some time so have only just read about Darwin and just wanted to share my experiences. My Charlie has IVDD. He slipped a disc in January 2014 when he was 7. He recovered well after a blip in surgery but then had another operation in May 2015 which didn't go to plan and when I brought him home his back legs were paralysed and he was doubly incontinent. Well my boy is a survivor too. He is 11 now, still incontinent but gradually regained movement in his back legs although his left leg doesn't bend. He gets about in the house and garden albeit clumsily. I don't know if his left leg spinal walks or how much control he has of it but he manages. To go out on a walk he uses wheels which have been a godsend. We are just back from Norfolk. Another beach holiday cos he loves the sea. He went in the sea in his wheels and pottered on the beach. As long as he still has his personality and quality of life we will keep going although I find it hard cos we do have to deal with his toileting every 5 hours during the day and don't have anyone on hand to give us a break. He never went in kennels so I wouldn't want to stress him out now. I do however count every day as a blessing as I really thought we had lost him May 2015. If there is any way I can help please let me know. xx
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That is a good update for Darwin. Glad he is enjoying his sunbathing and continues to be happy. Xx
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So happy to read your lovely update, pleased he is doing so well :luv:
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That's such a lovely update . I'm sure its not easy for you but you're obviously doing a wonderful job and seeing Darwin still able to enjoy his life must make it all worth while. All the best for you and cuddles for Darwin! :luv:
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Hi I haven't been online for some time so have only just read about Darwin and just wanted to share my experiences. My Charlie has IVDD. He slipped a disc in January 2014 when he was 7. He recovered well after a blip in surgery but then had another operation in May 2015 which didn't go to plan and when I brought him home his back legs were paralysed and he was doubly incontinent. Well my boy is a survivor too. He is 11 now, still incontinent but gradually regained movement in his back legs although his left leg doesn't bend. He gets about in the house and garden albeit clumsily. I don't know if his left leg spinal walks or how much control he has of it but he manages. To go out on a walk he uses wheels which have been a godsend. We are just back from Norfolk. Another beach holiday cos he loves the sea. He went in the sea in his wheels and pottered on the beach. As long as he still has his personality and quality of life we will keep going although I find it hard cos we do have to deal with his toileting every 5 hours during the day and don't have anyone on hand to give us a break. He never went in kennels so I wouldn't want to stress him out now. I do however count every day as a blessing as I really thought we had lost him May 2015. If there is any way I can help please let me know. xx
Thank you for your post. It means so much that's there someone else who understand the issuing with caring for a dog with IVDD.
Every now and again either OH or I finds it difficult to cope. It's OH turn this week. He was working from home yesterday and by 7.30am he was cleaning up for the 2nd time so nit a good start to a Monday.
Please can you post some photos of Charlie with his wheels. I know everyone would love to see how well Charlie is coping. What make are they etc. We're not at that stage yet but it worth knowing what wheels work best for Cockers.
I would love to get Darwin back on a beach, but since his op is car journeys have been quite short. One mile up the road to the vets/kennels/ groomers or the 5 miles to the RVC. He use to love Burgh Island etc in South Devon as we use to spend all our holidays in Devon. But Hertfordshire is a bit land locked so no decent beaches near by.
We keep trying to set yourselves and Darwin little goals. The first was for him to be ok to go into kennels so I could have a day out at Chelsea Flower show. Darwin enjoyed his stay and OH and I had a wonderful day.
The 2nd goal was for Darwin to be Ok until our son finished his A Levels exams. We had a little scare the day before the final exam. As Darwin yelped with pain, dragged himself outside and collapsed. I really thought that was it, was getting prepared to make phone calls and to get Darwin up to the Vets. Don't know what Darwin had done but within 10mins and with the aid of a few very smelly treats Darwin was mobile again. It has effected him, but his leg is a bit stiffer and he's a bit more wobbly.
Trying to think of the next couple if goals. One will be to enjoy his last summer with my son at home, but that's guaranteed and the next will be helping Darwin adjust to our son leaving home, as they have a wonderfully close bond. Hopefully Darwin will be Ok for another brief stay in kennels as we would all love at least one night away the end of the summer.
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My last Cocker, Rosie, also had IVDD - she had two surgeries.
It's heartbreaking to have a crazy, happy Cocker and in a split second find she has hind limb paralysis and needs emergency surgery.
The after care is difficult for the dog and owner and absorbs every minute of every day - I was on my own caring for Rosie and I just felt totally exhausted most of the time due to lack of sleep as I would wake constantly at the slightest sound.
I got a special harness for Rosie, instead of a towel under the tummy - her back legs went in each side of this harness and then a strap enabled me to hold her rear end at the correct level for her to walk (using just her front legs and then all four legs when able to do so) - I took her to the beach using this harness and she walked her usual route sniffing all the way.
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Hi I am the same as you, small goals as you never know what is round the corner. I emailed a local kennel after reading about Darwin going into kennels just to see if it was at all a possibility for a short break. they declined but suggested I advertise on gumtree for a vet nurse or ask the nurses at my vets if they would be willing to provide short term care for him.
Anyway I was just asking to see if it was a possibility. Have tried to post a photo of Charlie in his wheels. He wouldn't be able to go out for a walk without them. We got them from www.wheels4dogs.co.uk. Another website that has been invaluable is dodgerslist.com. The wheels, the bellybands and the wet mats have been our most helpful purchases
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Lovely to see the photo Charlie :luv: He looks so happy
We're very lucky with our kennels. It's expensive but they're wonderful and more important Darwin is happy going there and they fully understand his issues. One of the kennel staff does grooming and she's worked wonders on Darwin as he coat was in such a mess.
Hope you find someone to look after Charlie so you can have a little break.
Take Care
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It's now nearly a year since I've posted an update on Darwin and in August it'll be 2 and 1/2 years since his spinal op. Doesn't time fly!
We're just back from my first holiday since Darwin has been ill, earlier this year we realised that since Darwin had been ill I hadn't had a single night away from home, so we treated ourselves to 5 nights at a luxury resort in Sardinia ( absolutely bliss) and Darwin enjoyed an eight day break in kennels
During the autum/winter he seemed to struggle but part of that was he was really missing my son, whose just finishing his first year at Uni. If you ask Darwin where is my son, he'll go and sit at the bottom of the stairs and look upstairs. :luv:
Since the start of the year we've been slowly building up on Darwin's stays at kennels, which have enabled us to have a few day trips ( and also gave me a rest after a serious hand injury). Darwin has always loved our local kennels. Also as the weather has improved he's been much happier. All he really wants to do is spend his time sunbathing and taking the contents of his toy box outside
We still stick to a very rigid routine of 3 ten mins pavement walks, at set times, which seems to work and helps us mange his bowels, as he's got little control due to nerve damage. He's not particularly good when he meets other dogs, but that is only to be expected as for over 2 years he's not had the opportunity to socialise with any dogs.
We recently had our first vet visit in 10months, our vet was very impressed with Darwin, he hadn't expected him to be doing do so well, Yes his posture isn't good( he has a curve to his back ) and at times he will bunny hop. But most importantly his foot placement is good and we're successful managing his pain.
I'll post a couple of photos of Darwin later
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Lovely update, so pleased things are going well for Darwin and yourselves :luv:
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So glad to hear Darwin‘s doing well and still enjoying life! You‘ve obviously done a great job caring for him! Looking forward to seeing photos. :bigarmhug: to Darwin!
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That is a good update, and all credit to you and your family for your dedication to Darwin :luv:
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Bless him, hope things continue to go well for a long time yet.
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Here's a copy of recent photo's of Darwin
(http://i1120.photobucket.com/albums/l495/alisonwannell/IMG_0620_zpsrjkj5ups.jpg) (http://s1120.photobucket.com/user/alisonwannell/media/IMG_0620_zpsrjkj5ups.jpg.html)
(http://i1120.photobucket.com/albums/l495/alisonwannell/IMG_0670_zps0ya9zgfd.jpg) (http://s1120.photobucket.com/user/alisonwannell/media/IMG_0670_zps0ya9zgfd.jpg.html)
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:luv: what a handsome lad you are Darwin!
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Just perfect :luv:
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Fantastic to hear such wonderful news. Darwin is gorgeous. Well done you.
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It’s time to celebrate as 3 years ago today Darwin was in intensive care at the RVC having just had his spinal surgery.
It’s hard to believe that he’s now 10yrs old, but still acting like a 6month old pup.
He is starting to struggle / show his age / disability. When rushing about he’s starting to fall over. I’m not sure if it’s lack of coordination due to nerve damage or weakness in one of his back legs.
But he’s constantly happy and is looking forward to a summer of sunbathing.
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It’s time to celebrate as 3 years ago today Darwin was in intensive care at the RVC having just had his spinal surgery.
It’s hard to believe that he’s now 10yrs old, but still acting like a 6month old pup.
He is starting to struggle / show his age / disability. When rushing about he’s starting to fall over. I’m not sure if it’s lack of coordination due to nerve damage or weakness in one of his back legs.
But he’s constantly happy and is looking forward to a summer of sunbathing.
That‘s so lovely to hear and proof of what a positive attitude and a little bit of COL magic can do!! All the best for Darwin, what a little hero he is! :luv: and lots of :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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Ah bless him, after all he has gone through and you too, Darwin is a little star who is one happy little fellow....time goes by so quickly.
He is such a handsome boy :luv:
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Well done to Darwin and to you, for keeping going and I hope you have lots more happy days ahead. :luv:
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:luv: :luv: all the best to happy Darwin
Lesley and Dylan
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What a lovely update - well done Darwin, and well done you for looking after him so well :luv: :luv:
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So pleased to read things are going well for him :bigarmhug:
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Brilliant news
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So pleased to hear how well Darwin is doing. Here's to many more happy times.