CockersOnline Forum
Cocker Specific Discussion => Health => Topic started by: LiliPickles on November 13, 2016, 08:04:57 PM
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Hi everyone...
I don't know why I'm writing this but I guess it's to look for reassurance or understanding or hope or something, because right now I feel at a loss.
Yesterday my five year old cocker was not herself. First meal of the day she was reluctant to eat at first, but then picked up and seemed fine. Saturday went on and she seemed a bit subdued but she has moments like that and we wondered if she was coming into season again. But she was struggling to jump up onto the sofa and as the day went on she stopped doing it all together.
By very late Saturday night/early this morning she was standing up but one or the other of her legs would pull to one side and she'd dump down/fall into a sitting position but she'd get back up again.
At that point I really started to panic, even though she was still doing her best to follow me around everywhere as usual. I searched for what it could be online and the advice seemed to be get her rested in her crate and get her to the vet.
So I put her in her cage for a couple of hours while waiting for the vets to open this morning. Cut to a few worrying hours later and I try to get her out of the crate to see if she needed the toilet but her back legs had totally gone. It was horrifying. She could barely even drag herself out of the cage and I had to pull her out myself. Needless to say, that instant I was calling all the vets in the area to get someone out to her as quickly as possible.
I currently have a slipped disc myself and I can't drive my car due to discomfort and the painkillers I'm on, but no vet could get out to see her until late afternoon. That wasn't good enough and so I scrambled and managed to get her in at another local vet who actually has an orthopedic specialist on staff.
I called a taxi (and unfortunately she pooped on the journey there -probably out of fear- and I think that was the first time she'd toileted in maybe half a day or more. Hard to tell as we let the dogs come and go in and out of the house/garden as they please.)
Anyway, we got there around 11am. The vet told me that it looked like a disk problem. They said she seemed to have feeling in her back legs still but it wasn't likely she'd recover without surgery. Around 11:30am I said goodbye to her and put her fate in the vets hands.
At home a little later I got a call to say the specialist was coming in especially at 2pm and would run some tests and then if there was a need for surgery they'd get her straight in and do the necessary right there and then to try and give her the best chance.
I just got a call from the surgeon with an update. He gave me so much info I don't even think I took ten percent of it on board. He said she'd been in surgery for three hours, and that she's alert but groggy currently. He said there was something up with her spinal cord and that he might need to do an MRI to see what's going on. The technicalities of it all went over my head completely as I'm absolutely distraught, but he said he thinks she's got a sixty percent chance (seventy at best) of recovery but it's going to take months and that she'll be in their care for up to ten days. They had to express her bladder and everything and he seemed to imply that's something that's going to be a long term thing, as will a lot of physio and further treatment to get her better.
I'm absolutely distraught. Switching between fits of sobbing and stoic numbness. I cannot believe this has happened to her, and so quickly too. If I'd know how bad she'd get from her early symptoms I would have had her in the vets yesterday afternoon.
She's never shown any problems at all, other than being a bit moody when she's in season and I just don't know how this could have happened to her. We never heard so much as a yelp out of her.
My heart is breaking because she's literally been the perfect dog. We had her from a six week old pup and I barely had to put any effort into training her because she just seemed to do everything instinctively. She's my right hand girl and such a happy little thing, and she's either cuddling on the sofa or lying close, and even sleeps in my room at night. There's already a gaping hole without her here and I just don't know what to think or do right now.
Has anyone else been through this and can offer some advice, or hope? Does anyone know how likely a FULL recovery is?
I'm reading up and it's saying she might never be back to her old self and that we could be looking at her having to have wheels and she may need to have her bladder expressed for the rest of her life and while I will do anything for that little sweetheart, I don't know what quality of life she's potentially going to have if recovery isn't full or how good I (and what little family I have) will be at supporting her due to my own health being so poor right now.
It's so bloody unfair. She's the sweetest dog and she's never had a day ill in her five years. It's come as such a shock and I'm so scared we might lose her in one way or another. I feel so hopeless at the moment. I'm trying hard to be positive by my stomach is in knots at the thought of everything that could go wrong.
Anyway, thanks guys. I'm sorry for the long venting, I'm just completely and utterly broken and I don't know what to do.
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So sorry to read this, can offer no advise, only prayers and hope that all comes good in the end - seems such an inadequate thing to say- they are such a huge part of our lives, it's so hard when things aren't right and you feel so helpless xx
Sent from my SM-A300FU using Tapatalk
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Thank you so much. It's a help to know someone out there understands the hurt. I've got everything crossed but I fear like it's not going to be enough. :(
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I have no knowledge of this type of thing so can't help, but I can understand how traumatic this is for you, and I so hope that your poor little girl can get back to normal x
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Sorry to hear this and I can understand what you are going through. We had the same with our previous cocker Charlie 10 years ago. I know there are a few in this group who have more recent experience when their cockers went down with a disk problem so their advice will be more up to date than mine. Will keep all crossed that things work out for you both. Try and remain up beat when you visit as she will not understand what had happened but these cockers put up a great fight and my lad fought back and did regain his mobility and was with us for another 9 years. Dont forget to look after you as well she will need you.
Cathy
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what a time you are having. I have no experience of this but some one will be along shortly.
You did right and got her the help she needs so stop beating yourself up about that. Secondly, stop hitting the " google" button. You will cause yourself so much worry and heartbreak most of which will be unnecessary hopefully . you can do no more until you get the proper facts about what is ailing your beloved girl. It must be a good sign that she still has feeling in her back legs so remain hopeful.
Meanwhile am sending :bigarmhug:for you and your girl.
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Oh I am so sorry for you. I know just what you mean about your cocker being your right hand girl. You are clearly devastated. All I can say is that you will be in our thoughts so keep us updated.
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I can totally understand what you are going through, but first and foremost you cannot take any blame whatsoever. Thankfully you took her to the vet even though you aren't well yourself.
Mine is my right hand girl as well so you aren't alone in how you feel. Your wee one will pull through, and you can both heal together. Sending you love and hugsXXXXX
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KellyT had something similar with one of her cockers around 5 years ago. If I remember rightly, she was off her feet altogether and needed surgery to correct a disc problem and is now 14 years old ;)
Vets have to be cautious with what they tell you, it would be fundamentally wrong to say your girl will be 100% right if there's a chance she may not fully recover :-\. It is very early days yet and until you know fully what you are dealing with then the outcome is also not known. As hard as this is, try not to worry too much until you know what the cause is and her prognosis after. These cockers are amazing dogs, if they can recover they do and lead very full lives :D
Wishing your girl a full and speedy recovery
Jayne
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Edited to add - Kelly was a very active member on here and there will be threads about Jennie (I think it was Jennie, as she also has another cocker whose name I can't recall) we also worked for the same company, in the same building and live c2 miles apart ;)
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I'm just sending you big hugs and hoping they can help her. Xxxx
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I know how torn up you re feeling, the waiting is terrible.
Hugs Xxxx
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Exactly the same happened to Darwin on 3rd March this year. It's as if your post could have been mine on the day he collapsed. So you're not alone, and I can't thank the COL members enough for their support as it helped me so much. His thread is in the general section "Please pray for Darwin"
Darwin's journey to recovery has been long and hard, back breaking and hasn't been easy. But so so rewarding. It's impossible to list all the little mile stones of his recovery that have become treasured moments. :luv:
From the first time I saw him post surgery when we measured the movement in his back legs as a "reaction". To getting him home only a week after surgery. The month we nursed him at home (that was so so hard) But equally rewarding as he was clinically discharged only 6 weeks after surgery. To the first tail wag (that moment we stay with me forever :luv:) The first time he could stand without having crossed back paws. The first time he had a walk down the road ( ok it was only 100m). The first walk in woods / park. The first session back in kennels ( only 6hrs!)
We had got to the stage of 2 x 20 mins walk, plus a little evening walk around the block. So extremely good for a dog that was completely "broken" in March, with a very slim chance of recovery. The vets at our practice have been surprised by this recovery and most people I meet in the park don't belive me when I say we've had to teach him to walk again. Yet 3 weeks ago he had a relapse as an other disc has gone, but just 8 weeks of cage rest, no surgery this time. Which we're actually finding much harder than his initial recovery.
Please let me know how I can help and support you.
Thinking of you.
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Sending lots of positive thoughts for you and your girl. Pearly is right and although I can imagine how you're feeling, you're still in shock, it really is early days. The vets do need time to make a complete diagnosis, they need to get it right before they start treatment and I agree that they do often try ro prepare you for worst case rather than get your hopes up. Try and stay positive and be kind to yourself, there are lots of us here pulling for you and your little one!
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Sending positive thoughts and cyber hugs to you and your girl
Have no advice to offer on her condition, but know the hurt you are feeling at the moment. :luv:
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so sorry to hear this, not able to offer any advice but just wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts, and hope everything goes smoothly
take care
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Thank you all so much for your kind words of support. It means so much to know people understand and care. Takes the edge off things a little tiny bit. I'm sorry that words fail me to say much more than thank you. I feel so numb and afraid right now.
@Darwin Your story has given me some hope that there's light at the end of this tunnel. I hope my girl manages to follow in your boys footsteps. As long as I'm able, I'm willing to do whatever it takes to help her mend and I'm trying to prepare myself for the battle that lies ahead. Thank you for sharing your story and giving me some hope that there's a chance she could beat this.
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Just wanted to send you and your girl some :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
I don't have any experience myself other than reading on here the stories of people whose cockers have gone through this and come out the other side. You will find endless support on here as the one thing we all have in common is the love we have for our cockers
Take care, you and your girl will be in lots of people's thoughts tonight :luv:
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No advice or experience to add, but just wanted to say that I hope with all my heart that your girl makes a full recovery. It's heartbreaking when we feel we can't do anything to help out our little shadows, but you've done all you can for the moment. Slow and steady to carry on with and fingers crossed she is able to get back to her old self.
Stay strong and positive for her, keep us updated with her progress x
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What a complete shock for you both :'( Keeping our fingers and paws crossed for a positive outcome. Take care :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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I hope your girl's had a good night and that you have too, after all the shock and worry of the last couple of days :bigarmhug:
I've been looking for some old threads about other dogs that have been through spinal surgery, specifically for the one by KellyT, as mentioned by someone else earlier on this thread, and found it http://www.cockersonline.co.uk/discuss/index.php?topic=90490.msg1344588#msg1344588
The thread stops quite early on in the recovery process, but there were subsequent updates, including a lovely set of birthday pictures some 18 months later showing a Cocker paddling and doing all the normal Cocker type things, so I hope you'll be encouraged xx
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Sending you both positive thoughts. It's standing by and being so helpless is the real killer :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
Lesley and Dylan
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So sorry to read about your girl, no experience of this but just wanted to send some positive thoughts. Thinking of you both :luv: xxxx
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Huge thank you to everyone for your good wishes and thoughts, it really has been a huge help to read such kind things and all the support and advice has been a big help already.
First Update - I just called the vet to check in and apparently she's bright as a button this morning. She's not too fussed about eating but they say that's normal after such a long surgery. She's baring a little weight on her left leg but nothing her right yet. I feel like that's a great improvement already considering she was literally just dragging her lower half behind her this time yesterday.
She does have "deep pain" which they say is a good thing, and she's almost able to pee on her own. She needs a little help to get started off and then she goes by herself, which again they say is a good sign. They're letting us go and visit her this afternoon, and bring her some of her things and some treats. I'm terrified that visiting her might upset her because she is so attached to me (and my mom) and that it might somehow hamper her recovery but I miss her so much I need to see her and the vets seemed pleased to get us over to her.
I'll update with any more news later on once I know a bit more and have seen her for myself.
Thanks again all! Your kindness really has been a huge help to get me through this first night. :)
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Good to hear, that she is feeling a bit brighter this morning. Sending you both lots of healing and positive thoughts for a speed recovery :luv: :luv: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
Stephanie, George and Hamish xxx
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Sending positive thoughts and hugs.
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Just seen this and what a shock for you, I am sending all my best wishes and hope that the improvement is swift and she is soon with you again.
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What a terrible shock for you all!
So good to hear that she has come through the surgery well :luv:
Sending lots of positive thoughts for a good recovery.
:bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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That's wonderful news. Hope you see more improvement this afternoon. X
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That sounds positive. I'm sure you'll feel better yourself when you've actually seen her. Chin up - you'll get there!!
Lots of cuddles for your little girl - what's her name by the way?
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Such good news that's she's had a good night
I wouldn't worry about her not really eating at this stage, I'm sure once she see you , you'll be able to get her to eat some treats
Being able to wee with only a little help is also amazing at one day post surgery, Darwin discharge from hospital was nearly delayed as he wouldn't wee on his own.
Having the deep pain feeling is what they're looking for at the stage at it means that she still has feeling in her back legs.
Thinking if you. Looking forward to hearing about your visit today
Please don't hesitate to PM me if I can be of any more help
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WOO HOO what good news.
We need a name and photo so we can " personalise" our get well wishes to your little brave girl. Do not get too upset when you visit, we do not want her picking up your distress vibes. She will be home before you know :003:
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Wonderful news, will keep sending the healing vibes and :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: s
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So glad things sound brighter x
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Hey all. Just got back from visiting her.
She came out with a sling holding up her back end, and not putting any weight on her legs at all, they were just dragging behind her. A really nice nurse laid her out for us to sit with but she told us a few things that seemed to contradict what I was told earlier by a different nurse, which has worried me. Apparently she needs a little bit of help to pee, and has had an accident earlier today so they had to bathe her, but that she doesn't need much stimulation to go is a good sign (but there's a risk of her getting cystitis) for recovery and potential care needs. Apparently her legs are showing muscle reactions so that's a good sign too but she can't bare weight yet. I think she was in a lot of pain because she was not herself at all at first.
I got so much information from the surgeon I'm a bit bamboozled by it all and I don't think I took anything on board. The operation was to remove pressure, not a disk or anything, but the details of it all went over my head in a whirlwind of information and probabilities/possibilities. He told us that she's at a level four (out of five - being the worst) and that she could go either way with recovery and it's a waiting game to know how she'll turn out in the long run. He said it's not a degenerative condition (although every creatures disks degenerate as they age) and there was nothing we could have done to prevent what happened...I can't help feeling like there might have been.... :(
He said she's at about a sixty percent chance of getting better at the moment but the initial signs are positive. He said there are a lot of potential complications that could occur and that she's got a long road ahead of her. They generally expect to see significant improvements with four to six weeks, but if it goes beyond twelve weeks without any significant improvement we may have to start making hard choices, but I'm trying not to think about that now as it's a long way off. He said he had a gut feeling that she would be one of the slower healers, so I really hope she proves him wrong but I'm worried to death about how she'll heal and how I'm going to cope with giving her the care she'll need to get there when she comes home.
For the first part of the visit she was really dopey, and not herself at all. She ate a piece of biscuit but didn't want much else at first. She then fell asleep while the surgeon was talking and when she woke up she was much brighter. (The nurse said that her pain meds had probably kicked in, so it's a relief to know that something is helping her with the pain.) She then ate all the biscuits I took and had some apple pieces too, but she filled up pretty fast and wasn't interested at all in her regular food, which doesn't surprise me. Whenever she's a bit off colour her interest in normal food is the first to go, but she's always up for biscuits haha!
Her eyes seemed much brighter after her nap and they were lighting up whenever we said words she's familiar with at home (like "Ozzie" - her big brother!) and her ears were going up and down as they always do. And she was curious and alert to what was going on around her - the nurses said they've already noticed she's a nosey little thing haha! She really is. We miss having our little "supervisor" around haha!
It broke my heart all over again to leave her, and I'm absolutely sick with worry for what might be to come for us all but it was so good to see her. I hate her being away from home but I know it's for the best and I'm hoping nature will be on her side and get her mended quickly and fully. As the surgeon said, it's in the lap of the Gods know...so I hope they're kind to her.
Thanks again to everyone for the continued support, prayers and good wishes. It really does mean so much to know people relate and care and everyone who's gone through this and come out the other side is a inspiration to me to keep my head up and fight for her recovery.
I've attached a picture I took of her. All her lovely curls are gone but I'm taking it as a marker for her recovery - keeping everything crossed that her legs will be back working long before her curls grow back.
(http://i65.tinypic.com/20upu2h.jpg)
@MIN - I can't believe I forgot to mention her name. She's called Lilith, but we call her Lili...or Pickles...because she literally cannot help herself with picking things up. She's always got to bring a "present" and loves to steal things while your back is turned and parade around with them. I really hope we get to see her do that again very soon.
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beautiful " bearded" lady :005:
We here do our best to help,comfort, laugh and listen when it is required. There are not many subjects that can not be tackled. You yourself now will have input for when this happens to someone else.
All knowledge no matter how vague is always wanted by someone
ps. Welcome to the family,
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What a very pretty little girl you have there. :luv:
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She is a beautiful girl and we are all hoping that she will be back with you soon. Look at those eyes, so trusting and loving.
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I had to do a double take, Lilli is almost the spitting image of Coral, so now I'm completely biased but what a pretty girl you have :luv:
It is very early days yet, the fact that she's awake and bright eyed is pretty good - just think how we humans would react to surgery of the nature she's just gone through ;)
Wishing Lilli a speedy and full recovery,
Jayne
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Get well soon Lilith, we're all thinking about you, you'll be home soon!! :luv:
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I've been thinking about you all day, your little one is totally gorgeous.
Darwin was the same, he had 2 nurses walking him out to see me, I was waiting the main reception area of the animal hospital and suddenly he was there! I had expected to have been seeing him in a hospital cage.
We also spent ages blaming ourselves, if we had done this or that maybe it wouldn't have happened etc. I was looking on the web at doggy wheel chairs ( don't look, it just makes you feel worse than you do already)
Darwin's is IVDD so degenerative. I think what they did is remove a section of the bone of the spine to release the pressure on the spinal column. They even had a model of the spine to show us what they would be doing.
Starting writing a list of question, so maybe tomorrow you can either see or phone the vets and then maybe get some more answers.
Try and just focus on getting Lili home where she belongs. If we managed to nurses and support Darwin in his recovery I'm sure you can do the same. It's amazing how strong they can be, they really have a will to recover.
Ax
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Sending bucket loads of positive thoughts your way and thinking of your sweet girl, hope she has a settled night.
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Healing thoughts and prayers for Lilith, what a beautiful girl :luv:
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Lilith is beautiful :luv: :luv: Wishing her continued healing prayers and positive thoughts :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
Stephanie, George and Hamish xxx
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Thank you all so much for the lovely wishes, kind words and positivity. It's a big help to know so many people have her in their thoughts.
Just called up the vets for a morning update...They said she's been comfortable overnight but there's no improvement...I'm gutted! :( Not the news I've been hoping for...but I guess it's still early in the day. Going in to see her late this afternoon so I'm holding out some hope that something good will happen as the day goes on. It's less than forty-eight hours since she came out of surgery, so I'm (perhaps foolishly) telling myself that she just needs more time. :'( She perked up so much yesterday from when she was bought in to when we had to leave her and the nurse said that the pain meds may have kicked in so I hope once they do their job she'll feel a bit more like fighting.
@Darwin - It means a lot to know you've been thinking of us, thank you! I was exactly the same - I'd imagined seeing her through bars or something, to see her being bought out like that was disheartening. I looked on a site for disabled pets and saw the wheelchairs...it was very upsetting...I hope I don't ever have to go back to look at them again.
That's exactly what they did to Lili. The vet/surgeon drew it for us on a whiteboard, so we got a little visual too. It just sounded awfully brutal and I hope with everything I am that it did the trick for her. He didn't mention IVDD (I was reading up on it last night) and I asked if there was a chance it could happen again, and he said he wasn't sure....Every time I try to think of questions my mind goes blank, it's all mainly things about getting her home and how to adapt to best help her but they don't seem too keen on discussing that yet as I guess it could be a long way off.
Thank you for having faith and keeping us in mind. I hope we can do it, so much depends on nature doing its (her?) job and the waiting to know anything or hear something positive and hopefully is so awful.
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Here is a tip from the time my dog had a stomach operation.
He got mobile pretty quickly but NO JUMPING. Lifting him seemed painful.
BUT he had to get into the car for vet visits.
I had two big "bean-bags" laying about that make impromptu dog-beds.
Piling these up by the car door gave a safe route in and out for him.
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I know you are constantly hoping that every call gives you better news, but you are so right that it is only two days, and your darling girl has had major surgery and there must be a lot of bruising and swelling around the operation site, maybe when this starts to subside a better picture will emerge.
Sending hugs to you and your darling Lilith.
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Oh Lili you beautiful brave girl. :luv: :luv: I am sending masses of positive healing thoughts to you and huge hugs for your mum for the long road ahead. :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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Sending you lots of hugs :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
As already been said, 24 hours or so after the op, the swelling will start to increase so I wouldnt think you would see a huge difference until that starts to subside.
Start planning for her home coming I am sure it wont be long. We are great at sending out positive thoughts xx
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What a shock for you, wishing you both a speedy recovery.
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I'm trying to remember what Darwin was like when I saw him post op. He had his op on a Friday and I didn't see him until the Monday and then again on the Tuesday. I think by the Tuesday they had removed Darwin's IV pain relief. As seeing me was distressing Darwin after I left, I didn't see him until he as discharged on the Friday.
You've got to remember that they've had such major surgery, so apart from appearing a little brighter maybe you won't see much improvement at the moment. It is a long long road to recovery so at it's a case of managing your expectations, which I know is so difficult.
I'm trying to remember the timescales / milestones in Darwin's recovery, just so that you know what to expect. Every dog is different so the recovery process will vary. But don't expect miracles it does take a long time for them to recover. I think they measure there recovery as complete or has reached a maximum at six months post op. And it does take 6 months!
For 4 weeks( we had initially been told 6 weeks) , it was total create rest apart from 3 wee breaks a day, carried to the garden and then "walked" using a sling whilst in the garden. After 2 weeks he had his staples removed. Four weeks post op he had an appointment with the consultant at the Vet College. He was clinical discharged.
Next four weeks it was a combination of crate rest and very small space rest, maybe 2m square space max with a little more walking with a sling, less being carried. We had to cover most of our wooden floors with cheap runners / rugs as Darwin couldn't cope with the wooden flooring. We would have started regular physio / hydro sessions at approx. 6 / 8 weeks post op.
It would have been 8 or 10 weeks before he had his first walk. Which was with a sling supporting his back legs we went a total of 100 meters walk up the road! Over the next week or so we reduced the amount of support we where giving with the sling until we stopped using it. And slowly increased the distance we walked. At this stage we switched from hydro threadmill sessions to hydro swimming sessions which worked much better for Darwin
It was probably nearly four months post op before we allowed him out in the garden for a wee , without us taking him outside with lead and harness.
We have then slowly built up this walks to 2 slow 20 mins lead walks and a 10 min slow evening walk. We haven't got to the stage of allowing him any off lead time during walks. There are times when he would meet another dog and on lead try and play, but his back legs would collapse as he wasn't focusing on walking.
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Update #2 - Day Two after surgery...
Visited with Lili again today....considering how unhappy I was with the call this morning, things were better than I expected.
They'd taken the bandage off her wound and it looked a lot neater than I imagined it would. We counted twenty stitches and it looks terrible but it doesn't seem sore or anything so I hope it's healing well. She was getting a bit frustrated by trying to reach an itch near the wound site, so I hope that means feeling is coming in alive and well around there.
She's still not toileting on her own and but there's some twitching in her rear limbs and apparently that's a good sign. She seemed much brighter than yesterday and seemed a little keener to try and move a little bit more too. She was having a little try at scrambling off the table to get at some chicken the nurses bought in for us to give her along the counter top. She wolfed that down, and then ate about half a dozen milky biscuits and a piece of carrot. She wasn't fussed on the new treats I bought in for her, but I think she might want some comfort food and "tastes of home" maybe. She was very alert to everything going on around her and outside the room, and nosy as ever haha! Ears going up and down and her head tilting (I don't really recall seeing her do that yesterday) with words she's more familiar with at home - so I know my girl is still there inside her broken body.
Main thing for now is that she's bright, eating well and drinking well too. They're going to try and reduce the hard pain killers tomorrow and see how she copes. If she's not doing well they'll bump them back up but if she does okay they'll look to slowly wean her off them over the rest of the week. Apparently they like them to be off the opiates and peeing by themselves before they will even consider letting her home. Hoping that we'll get some positive news further into the week, but as always - I'm preparing myself to have to wait a while longer for that.
I'm still horribly worried to the point of being in this state of horrible numbness and "disassociation", I suppose you'd call it. Feeling sick all the time and I'm exhausted from the worry of it all, having a lot of weird health symptoms myself which I'm hoping aren't anything serious and I'm putting it all down to stress and anxiety right now. I managed to drive there today, rather than taxi-ing it, so I'm very pleased with that and hoping everything will hold up well enough to allow me to keep doing that for as long as I'm needing to.
I'm feeling more and more confident in her being there, as they're taking good care of her and she is most definately in the best place, but my God, the house isn't a home without her in it. It's weird being able to go to the toilet by myself without her busting the door down to find me, or getting her coming up and chirping at me when it's dinner time haha!
Anyways, here's a picture of her from today. I think she looks brighter even compared to yesterday. Big thanks again to everyone offering good wishes, support and advice. You guys are the best and all the nice messages are really helping me through this.
(http://i67.tinypic.com/30lnllf.jpg)
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@Darwin - Ah, I guess my visits to Lili are filling in the blanks for what may have happened with your boy on the first two days then. I have a worry that she might start getting distressed when we leave as she starts to get a little better. She was looking around a lot more today than she was, so I can see it possibly happening.
Yep. I'm trying hard not to put too many expectations on her. It's very early days. We don't know what time the operation happened exactly (sometime between 2pm when the surgeon got to the clinic and 7pm when he called with news) so it wasn't even 48 hours when we saw her today, and it was a massive operation. Three hours under aesthetic is huge for a person, I imagine it's so much harder on a dog. If I'd been through what she had, I don't think I'd be up and about either so I'm trying to think of it that way.
Considering how quickly it feels this year has gone, six months seems like nothing but at the same time, how slowly these last two days have gone I imagine it's going to seem like double that.
I wish there was some kind of "checklist" that you could run along and compare with, but like you said - they're all different. Even the surgeon said yesterday that some dogs do very little at the start then progress practically overnight, then some show initially positive signs and seem like they've got it in the bag and plateau before they're anywhere near where they need to be. I need to remember she's doing it her way, and just hope that taking it slow will mean a full recovery, even if it's not such a quick one. All we can know for sure right now is that if love could fix her, she'd be home by now.
I can't wait to hear the words "clinically discharged" but by the sounds of it that doesn't mean the fight is anywhere close to being over. Luckily we've got rugs or carpets in most rooms, so I'm hoping she'll do okay with getting around the house when she needs to. We've actually had some unused furniture moved out today in preparation for her coming home. I really hope that pet insurance covers the phsyio/hydro therapy, because by the sounds of it that's the most important thing. The surgery is only a tiny portion of the overall recovery.
Oh bless him! It sounds like his recovery was a real marathon for you all and I don't expect Lili's to be any different. It's so good to know that he got through it all, and that it can be done. It gives me continued hope that she'll beat this with time.
Thank you for your continued support and for giving me a rough idea of what to expect when. I'm hoping that she'll defy expectations and bounce back quicker and stronger than anticipated but I'm ready to help her fight and I'm coming up with all kinds of ways to make life at home as easy as possible for her, and me.
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Lily does look a lot brighter today, amazing considering all she has been through, she is clearly a fighter :luv:
Don't forget to take care of yourself through this, it must be emotionally and physically exhausting for you.
Keeping everything crossed here for another positive update tomorrow x
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Thinking of you and hope you have some better news2s tomorrow
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Glad to see she's looking a bit brighter and hope you'll see little improvements every day, - she looks like a little fighter! :luv:
So pleased that you're able to chat to someone going through the same thing, Darwin's story has touched us all and is a prime example of what love and determination can achieve, I hope with all my heart that Lilli's progress continues in the same way.
As Ben's Mum says, its important now that you take of yourself.
Sending out positve vibes and healing thoughts still, to both of you. All the best.!
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Things sound much brighter, happy to hear that.
Look after yourself as well x
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All thing crossed that Lili is improving today, sound good that she is trying to investigate the wound site.
Sending all positive and healing thoughts
Julie
P.S she reminds me of some one - same colouring :luv:
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Hey all....Thanks so much for the lovely messages of support and encouragement. It's such a boost to know people care and have us both in your hearts.
Just called the vets for her morning check-up....no change in her back legs unfortunately and she's still not peeing by herself but they're going to reduce the pain meds today to see how she goes, so they warned us she might not be too bright when we visit this afternoon. They've also said they will try to teach me to express her bladder today, so they can look to bringing her home soon. It's really thrown me for a loop as we thought we had at least a week to get ready. Now in a panic to try and get things ordered and set up for her. I desperately want her to come home because I miss her so much, but at the same time I'm very scared about it because I know the nurses are giving her the best care and I'm not sure how I'll measure up. It's going to be a trade off between what I want and what she needs I think...I'll let you all know how things go later today.
Thanks again for all the lovely messages :)
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As with humans I think they recover better being at home as they can relax more. Best wishes as always.
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:luv: You love her to bits!!! you won't do anything wrong - you'll be absolutely FINE!!! Take a pen and pencil with you when you pick her up and write down the vital instructions, it'll help you remember what the nurses have said. I agree with Mark, she'll be far more relaxed at home, as will you, and that goes a long way in the recovery process.
Best of luck and :bigarmhug: and cuddles for Lilli!!
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Definitely looking a lot brighter in that photo. And trust yourself, you know your girl best, and she will be happier at home.
Great idea to write things down, there is always information overload. Take care.
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Hi all!
Visited with Lili again this afternoon - day three post op! She seemed brighter even compared to yesterday. The treats she wasn't interested have now become the best thing ever - head in the bag and everything haha! So that's pleased me a lot. Especially as they'd reduced her pain relief today.
I was expecting she'd be feeling a bit grim because of that, but she was so bright. Trying to scramble off the pad she was on again, very responsive and more than happy to let me attempt the massage and physio she'll need. She's always loved "bum rubs" but I'm not sure she could feel it properly today but she loves being touched and fussed, so luckily the physio isn't likely to be much of a struggle with her.
Saw a couple of little responses in her back legs for myself too, so that helped. She's apparently able to bear a little weight on one leg, pads flat to the floor but she's nowhere near close to being able to stand unaided as the right one isn't doing very well. Keep telling myself - baby steps!
I asked a lovely nurse lots of questions, so now we know exactly what to get for her (foam pad bed, a duvet to line the crate sides, towels to roll up for something to push against - things like that...) and she reassured me about my worries with lifting her and using the sling too, so that was good. Apparently the specialist vet will decide when she's ready for hydro therapy, but it definitely won't be until the stitches are out.
On the downside, I had a go at expressing her bladder but I couldn't get the hang of it at all. I did get a teeny tiny bit out but I'm very disappointed that it's a lot harder to do that I imagined. The nurses were struggling to do it too though, so I managed not to feel too inferior haha! I'm hoping that things will improve in that department soon and maybe once she gets home she'll be more inclined to try herself in her favourite pee spots. I'm going to be researching techniques on Youtube too.
They're keen to get her home once she comes off the injected pain relief, but they're happy to keep her a bit longer until I'm ready and confident with expressing. Sadly she's going to have to be in there for a bit longer as the things we've ordered for her at home won't be here any earlier than next week which is very disappointing, but we were working with the initial seven to ten days time frame.
I really want to minimize any distress for her, and I know she can get a bit fretful if too much is going on around her at once. She's not a fan of boxes being unpacked for some reason - so we're going to have to wait until furniture is moved and the playpen etc is all unpacked and in place and we've got a bed downstairs, but I'm doing my best to expedite it all 'cause I just want her back here.
Here's a pic of how she's doing today, she's giving you all her best smile haha!
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g261/elzpea/liliday3_zpscroh0gzv.jpg) (http://s58.photobucket.com/user/elzpea/media/liliday3_zpscroh0gzv.jpg.html)
@Markr64 - Thank you! :) Yep, I'm hoping some home comforts and seeing her big brother going about his business might encourage her along.
@BizzyLizzy - I do, she's very precious to me. Thank you so much for having faith in me.
Luckily the nurse said today that they have some handouts with the physio instructions and things but definitely before she gets sent home I'll be there with my notebook and pen and list with questions as long as my arm haha! Fingers crossed being at home will go smoothly and get her back to rights quicker. Thank you! :)
@EJP - I'm glad you can see the improvement, she's such a little trooper! I think that's the biggest part of the battle for me personally - having faith that I can do it and it'll be okay. Yep, I'm definately close to saturation point with all the info coming at me, so notepad it will be haha! Thank you! :)
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So wonderful to read this, I am thinking of Lili lots and each time I come to COL it is news on Lili.
Do keep strong for your girl.
Best wishes
Julie :bigarmhug: for you both
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Lovely news today that Lili is improving, just remember baby steps
I wouldn't worry about Lili being unable to wee at the moment. I'm sure it was vertically a week from Darwins op that he started to wee on his own.
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@Jaysmumagain - It's really lovely to know you're thinking of her. Thank you so much! :D
@Darwin - Yep, "baby steps" is becoming my mantra haha! Oh that's good to know. I really hope she'll take after him in that way too. :)
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so glad she is getting stronger and you are seeing the light. The end of the tunnel is getting closer.
Please pass on to her a extra squish from me :luv:
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I think you and Lil are both doing great, all sounding like it should for now. x
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Just wondering how Lili is today !
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Day Four - Post Op:
Called for the morning update and was a bit worried by the fact they said she was only eating "when tempted"...but visiting with her this afternoon she was on the floor just across from my newly titled "treats bag" and before we knew what was going on she was dragging herself over and stuffing her head inside to gobble up all the biscuits she could get from the box I'd bought for her haha! So she's definitely doing okay in herself, she's always been a greedy little tyke at the best of times haha! It's good to see that she's getting around with her front legs, but it does make me worry about how best to confine her.
She did some hamster cheeks to show you all just how stuffed she was haha!
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g261/elzpea/unnamed_zpsjsurqbxl.jpg) (http://s58.photobucket.com/user/elzpea/media/unnamed_zpsjsurqbxl.jpg.html)
Going to have to be careful with her eating too much as she won't be able to exercise for some time.
I'm sure the nurses think I'm a bit mad because I bring her in bits of carrot, apple and banana, which she loves. Had to explain to them it's all because of our GDS (Oswald/Ozzie)....
It's his sixth birthday today and he's feeling a bit sorry for himself because he's missing his bestie and cuddly cat just doesn't cut the mustard compared to Lili haha!
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g261/elzpea/oz6thbday_zpsjryuhsts.jpg) (http://s58.photobucket.com/user/elzpea/media/oz6thbday_zpsjryuhsts.jpg.html)
He had a life threatening bout of pancreatitis when he was about a year old and needs a low fat diet for life, so we had to come up with alternative treats for him. Needless to say, you can't so much as look at a piece of fruit or veg in this house without having two sets of pleading eyes staring into your soul haha! Lili can hear the cellophane on a punnet of fruit open from about three miles away haha!
Anyways, sorry for the digression...
While we were with her she had an itch near her back legs and was trying to get at it with her teeth and the nurses said that was a good sign. My mom was with me and she was tickling her feet as I spoke with one of the nurses and she said there was some response there too, so that's good.
I had another try at expressing her bladder too - and hallelujah I actually managed to make her pee! (Never thought I'd be relieved to smell wee haha!) A fair bit came out but her bladder still felt full, so the nurses had a try to see if anything else would come out but nothing would - so I consider that a success and I'm enjoying a little bit of relief for it. She was up on the vets table while I did it too (because of my dodgy back) and apparently it's harder to do it on a counter than on the floor, as you need the purchase you get from being standing over them, so I'm pleased the adaptation for my limitations worked and hope the run of good progress continues.
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@MIN - Thank you! I will definitely give her one extra when I see her tomorrow. :)
@ejp - Thank you! :) I hope she's going along on the right track, gonna do my best to keep her on it too.
@Jaysmumagain - Thank you for asking. It's really lovely to know you care. :)
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So pleased to hear she is on the mend, long may it continue.
Lesley and Dylan
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So pleased she's coming along well, she's obviously got plenty of spirit and you sound more relaxed too!!
Cuddles for Lilli and ofcourse for Ollie, bless him he does look fed up!! :005:
Have a good weekend, -( it'll certainly be better than the last one!!)
best wishes!
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I'm so sorry to read what's going on with your girl. I really hope the operation is successful - it's amazing what can be done. Sadly I have experience of this happening to my JRT many years ago. It also happened very quickly, within the space of a few hours. In those days we didn't have insurance, couldn't afford expensive vet bills and the vet didn't hold out much hope for his recovery, so after a few days when it became obvious he had no feeling in his back end at all, we had to say goodbye. He was only six years old [emoji22]. The difference with your girl seems to be that she does have some feeling below the injury, so hold onto that hope, and also that it's thirty five years on from when my wee man had it.[emoji177]
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
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Oh am so pleased to read your update on Lili, just shows you that she is ready to eat what Mum gives her :luv:
Bet you are so thrilled with the wee thing too :D
Day four and she is coming along - so hold on to date thought to strengthen you.
As always sends healing and positive thoughts to your girl.
:bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: to both of you
Julie and Ollie dog
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Just catching up with this after a few days, and really pleased to read that she's making some progress and is well in herself. You've a long road ahead, but each baby step (hopefully baby steps literally soon) is another marker on her road to recovery :bigarmhug:
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That was an exciting update! :luv: Lots of positives in there. xx
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Day five....
Good things to report with Lili's improvement, it's still slow going and not even close to being anywhere near back to normal but the nurses report she's got good reflexes in her legs and I actually saw her put her right back leg in the correct position for standing and I think she put a little weight on it too, so I'm thrilled with that. Sadly the left leg is still dangling, but hopefully it'll improve soon.
She's having laser treatments too, which is a big relief because I was I searching for local vets that offer that service and I couldn't find one. Turns out they do it all in house, so I'm really happy with that. Counting my lucky stars that I took her to this vets.
I'm hoping the laser therapy is something I can take her in for regularly if it's going to help her recovery. They haven't mentioned it before, so I'm wondering if they've recently started it and if that's what's responsible for the leg positioning? I will try to remember to ask tomorrow.
Apparently she's being good as gold though. Everyone at the surgery loves her and can't say enough nice things about what a good girl she's been throughout this whole ordeal. She's so happy and excited by everything, which is great to see. She trying to crawl to get closer to us all the time we're with her, which is lovely but at the same time it worries me because I know she has to rest. She's crazy for chicken and biscuits (as per usual) too and bright as ever, which is always makes me feel relieved all over again, although I do miss her tail wagging.
On the downside...I tried to express her bladder again and couldn't get so much as a drop to come out. That's disheartened me but the nurses say they struggle all the time to do it with every dog (apparently cats are easier...typical haha!) and when they took over to see if they could do anything and nothing would come out for them either, so I don't feel too awful since even the professionals were struggling too.
The orthopaedic specialist is happy for us to take her home as soon as I'm confident with her bladder. She's also off opiate/IV pain meds all together now and is just on the Metacam and she seems even brighter each day so that's awesome. I feel more like she's "out of the woods" now and is taking the first steps towards recovery. Obviously, still very early days. No guarantees of a full recovery, I expect some setbacks and it's going to take a lot of time but the nurses say she's doing well so far, and I can't ask for more than that right now.
Hoping to get her home on Sunday, but we're not sure if it'll happen because of her bladder and the fact we're struggling to wrestle an old sofa out of the front door and need to wait on a couple of removal guys to come and help (hopefully in the morning) so we've got enough space for her pen and somewhere to drop a mattress to sleep downstairs so she doesn't fret overnight.
Here she is today....
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g261/elzpea/unnamed_zpsj4sjtumz.jpg) (http://s58.photobucket.com/user/elzpea/media/unnamed_zpsj4sjtumz.jpg.html)
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@Finvarra - Thank you so much! :)
@bizzlizzy - Yep, I'm feeling a fair bit happier about everything now which is really welcomed. (The pessimist in me is expecting a setback at any moment though.) It'll be nice to have her home as I feel like I'll sleep better if she's here and then I won't be as exhausted as I feel haha! Thank you, you too! :)
@Jonnydog - Oh no, that's such a shame. Totally understandable though, a very similar thing happened to a relatives dog about twenty years ago. We're really blessed to be in an era where we can be given more hope in these situations. Thank you - I'm holding on to the hope that she's going to get there in the end.
@Jaysmumagain - Oh yes, she's got no problem scoffing things haha! I'm a bit worried that she won't eat her regular food when she comes home (she's had it too good at the vets haha!) so I foresee a bit of trouble getting her back to regular diet. I was thrilled, now I feel a bit deflated again but I think it may be a case of "two-steps-forward-but-one-back" for a while. Thank you so much, sending big hugs back. :)
@elaine.e - Thank you. Yep, there's a big fight ahead for us, but as long as she keeps making the little improvements it'll keep giving me hope to push on. :)
@ejp - Hoping I'll be able to post more like it as the days go on. :)
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Looking sooooooo much brighter in todays photos, she is really up for some cuddles and some nice tasty food :D You are both doing well, I know you are worried about coping, but you really do seem to be taking it all in your stride, so deep breath and calm thoughts!! ;)
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So glad she is coming along well with her recovery.
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The pictures do show Lili looking brighter - you mist be so thrilled.
As for feeling down - it is only natural that when you see her you are so thrilled by her improvement but later you start to feel a bit deflated, you are bound to be like that. Our minds have a habit of putting lots of negative things in our head....so my girl you need to stay positive, not just for yourself but Lili too :luv:
As always :bigarmhug: for you both.
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Day six...
Had a morning visit with Lili today, due to the different opening hours over the weekend and the surgery was practically standing room only - super busy!
The nurses said she's doing really well and she seemed as bright as ever. She's was back to making her usual funny talking sounds today, which I think is a good sign as she's been quiet up until now. She's always chirping at home, so that was nice to hear.
I noticed she seems to be lying more in a sphinx type of position rather than with her legs straight out under her/at her side. She was sitting up and lying down more frequently too, and stayed sat up for a little while longer than before I think. I also saw her weight baring on her rear left leg when they put her back on the floor to go back to her kennel. Plus at least one of her back legs seems to be resting in a more natural position now, rather than out completely straight (which is how I'm sure they'd been earlier in the week) so I think that's progress.
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g261/elzpea/leg_zps9kuz65rz.jpg) (http://s58.photobucket.com/user/elzpea/media/leg_zps9kuz65rz.jpg.html)
The nurses say she's trying and improving little by little, and I really hope that continues when she comes home. Been told I can take her for laser therapy a couple of times a week too, so that's good.
They're spoiling her rotten with chicken and ham and she even wolfed down some of the dry food they're feeding her which was good to see. Especially as I found out today that there's a little dachshund in there currently who's had the same surgery and isn't eating so can't come off the IV meds. Such a shame for him, and it reminded me how lucky I am with Lili so far.
Spent most of the day setting up the house for her to come home and once it was done I was overcome with a horrible sense of sadness and apprehension. I think because I'm missing her so much and the timing of her visit was different, there seems to be so long between visits and I'm worried about her while the clinic is quiet and manned by only a couple of people.
Also because I just want her home but I'm scared of her not progressing as well here as she is with the vets. Plus lot of my plans to adapt things haven't gone as planned either so I'm back to the drawing board and feeling deflated. It feels like life will never go back to normal and I figure maybe I'm not coping with that concept as well as I thought I was...putting it down to exhaustion and hoping tomorrow will be a brighter day.
Here she is....Too alert and too nosy to take a second to pose properly haha!
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g261/elzpea/lilday6_zpsicpmndln.jpg) (http://s58.photobucket.com/user/elzpea/media/lilday6_zpsicpmndln.jpg.html)
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@Jaysmumagain @Andrea Ellie @ejp - Thank you all so much for the lovely messages of support and encouragement, it's helped so much. Today especially as I'm not as positive as I've felt these past few days. Still can't quite believe what happened, and I guess I'm thinking "if I'd know what I know now this time last week...." *sigh* The positivity you guys send to me really is a huge help. :)
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I believe when you get her home she will improve quicker and once you have her home you will feel easier. It is a big strain worrying about getting her home ready while all the time worrying about her at the vets. Fingers crossed she is home soon
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I do think that its always worse thinking about things before hand than when you're actually dealing with them, I always get into state about having to drive any long distances on my own and worry for days beforehand about whether I'll get lost or break down but then as soon as I get in thencar and set off, I'm absoutely fine and can never understand why I got into flap! Its obviously a completely different situation but the principle's the same. You've looked after Lilli since you had her, you know all her little quirks and can read her better than anyone and however lovely and caring the nurses are, its you who knows her best and she's going to be a lot happier being cared for by you. Once she's home, you'll be absolutely fine but do try and relax a bit before she is, and save your energy for later ;).
So glad she's making good progress! Stay positive!!
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Have been away for a few days but had to see how things are, she does seem to be looking much brighter and it is great news. I am sure getting her home will be the right thing for everyone concerned.
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Really feel for you and hope she keeps making good progress. Looking forward to more positive updates.
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So glad Lili is improving. I am sure you will be fine when she comes home and she will be much happier.
Looking forward to the next update and hoping for even more improvement.
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I have been following Lilli progress, several years ago some of the older members on here may remember my girl Kizzy went through the same op, the stay in the vets is normally about 10 days, and she was much better peeing in her own garden once we had her home. we had to teach her to walk again I found using a scarf as a sling under her tummy helped a lot. we were told to massage her legs upwards towards her bottom to help with circulation. It took several weeks before we saw much improvement so don't lose heart if you don't see a difference straight away , slowly kizzy improved and went on to live until she was 14 and you couldn't really tell there was anything wrong with her apart from a tiny tremor in her left leg if she was tired. I hope Lilli does as well and recovers soon :luv: :luv:
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So glad to once again read how well Lili is doing, reading Minimoo post must be encouraging.
It is easy for me to say not to worry----but, on day two things were bad, on Saturday you had a wriggly girl eager to see you and get what treat she could.
If you take the little things they add up, when you get Lili home things will be different but there is one thing, you will have her home and that will get you through. Your vet and the nurses will be a phone call away and all your friend here will be around too, so positive thoughts and remember when she is home she will be happier too.
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It is easier for us to see how Lili is doing as we are more 'removed' from the situation, if that makes sense. Things will fall into place, they really will. I don't doubt that there will be difficult days, but hang on in there. Xx
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Day seven....
Visited Lili this morning, and within literally seconds of pulling up outside the vets surgery I was struck with a migraine. (The type where you're rendered half blind with a brain freeze headache that causes nausea, numbness, dizziness, all kinds of horrible symptoms - talk about kick me when I'm down haha!) Luckily the visual disturbance passed as we were with Lili so I could see well enough to drive home safely and I managed to enjoy the visit with her despite the pain trying to get in and spoil it.
Everything went well, a new nurse said she's doing really well and said this morning Lili pooped on the grass outside and apparently that's a really good sign.
Didn't get a chance to express her because she'd already been done earlier in the morning and her bladder wasn't full. Plus with the feeling going in my hands/arms from the migraine it was probably divine intervention stepping in to stop me making another failed attempt and stressing us all out. I've been researching online though, and I'm hoping tomorrow I'll get to try a different technique which seems a bit easier and may yield better results.
She was super happy again, making her usual noises, scoffing down everything I bought for her and sitting up more again. Plus she was scooting around to get closer to us and stuff - she's pretty fast for a dog with uncooperative hind legs haha!
Apparently she's not in any pain (that the Metacam doesn't control) and the nurse says she's seen her wag her tail a couple of times, usual in the mornings. So I'm really pleased, and just hoping that I'll be able to maintain and advance her progress at home. She's being such a good girl, and apparently she's in a kennel opposite the little Dashie who's really struggling with her recovery. Hoping that Lili will give her some doggie-to-doggie encouragement haha!
All being well, we're going to bring her home tomorrow. Couldn't do it today because the migraine (and I've spent most of the day trying to sleep it off so there's still a few things left to do in the house) and the nurse said it'd be better to take her on a week day because I can have a chat with the vet again before going and there will be better opening hours for them to step in again should I have trouble with her bladder or anything.
Feeling nervous about bringing her home to be honest, but I'm hoping that getting back to the familiar will be the boost she needs to speed up her recovery. I guess only time will tell...
Here she is today....It's becoming a challenge to get a good shot of her because she's too excitable and looking around at every passing noise. I'm taking that as a good sign.
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g261/elzpea/dayseven_zpsgcodqxlm.jpg) (http://s58.photobucket.com/user/elzpea/media/dayseven_zpsgcodqxlm.jpg.html)
@bizzylizzy - You're right! Thinking is always worse than the actual "doing". I really hope that once she comes home she'll want to get back into her old habits and that will encourage her to push a bit harder to get back on her feet. I think she's probably so bewildered at the vets that it's possible slowing things down a bit....I guess we'll see. Thank you so much for the words of positivity.
@Markr64 - Thank you. I'm glad you can see the improvement in her. I really hope so too.
@MillicentWight @CountryGirl - Thank you both so much, I'm looking forward to being able to share positive progress with you once she's home.
@ Minimoo - Thank you for sharing your story, the more dogs I hear about overcoming this, the more I believe that Lili will too. I really hope she does as well as Kizzy did. :) Thank you!
@Jaysmumagain - Yep, it is. There are so many positive stories of dogs coming through this, each and everyone helps me believe that Lili will do the same. That's so true. I need to keep focused on the little goals and how far she's come. While there's a long long way to go yet, and no guarantees of anything, so far I feel like we've been really lucky. You're right, regardless of how nervous and worried I am, she's going to be happy to be home (although she'll probably be annoyed that she's confined to a playpen haha!) and that will hopefully go a long way to getting her back to rights. Thank you so much for all the support and encouragement. I hope over the next weeks there'll be good things to share here. :)
@ejp - That's a very good point. I really hope things will click into place, I'm determined to do my best to get through even the most difficult days. Thank you for the encouragement. :)
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Number one sign of Stress.
Really feel for you as a sufferer myself. Nightmare when they pick the wrong time to come.
So glad Lili is soon on her way home. Things then will be better for you both ;)
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@MIN - So true. I think this week finally caught up to me. They are the absolute worst. I've had them since I was about twelve and every day I wake up wondering if today-is-the-day because there's just no knowing and their timing is terrible. Luckily the pain was only a level two (on a scale of one to ten) so that was a relief. The "hangover" is actually worst than the migraine itself, but I'll take that over some of the awful ones I've had in the past.
Thank you. I've got everything crossed that she'll be back tomorrow and that we'll be walking well on the road to recovery with her.
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@MIN - So true. I think this week finally caught up to me. They are the absolute worst. I've had them since I was about twelve and every day I wake up wondering if today-is-the-day because there's just no knowing and their timing is terrible. Luckily the pain was only a level two (on a scale of one to ten) so that was a relief. The "hangover" is actually worst than the migraine itself, but I'll take that over some of the awful ones I've had in the past.
Thank you. I've got everything crossed that she'll be back tomorrow and that we'll be walking well on the road to recovery with her.
they say you either grow into them or grow out. I regularly suffered from about 15 until about late fortys. Now they are very rare but still humdingers. :003:
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Another one here who can't offer any advice but just want you to know I'm thinking of you and keeping everything crossed for a speedy recovery for your faithful friend. So sorry to hear she's going through this. Stay strong xx
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Day eight - and Lili is home!
We picked her up this afternoon and she's safely tucked into her play pen - making a lot of frustrated chirping noises haha! The nurse said she's doing better than they expected. She's trying to walk with one leg, but the other is sadly still struggling.
When we came through the door at the clinic today we saw her tail wagging a little bit and she was so excited to see us she peed on the floor, and the nurse said that's a good sign. They're expecting she might pee by herself when she's at home but if she doesn't and I can't express her by tomorrow afternoon I have to pop back and they will do it for me. I'm at the point where I don't care if she pees all over the floor, me, our other dog, my bed - just as long as she pees by herself haha! I'm going to try taking her out to one of her favourite spots before bed to see if that might help.
She's going in for her stitches out on Thursday morning and the surgeon will check her over and assess her progress then. I'm really nervous about having her home, I'm expecting something to go wrong any second but already it just feels so much nicer to have her here. Feels like a home again now. She's wolfed down a bowl of her regular food with her Metacam, and a carrot too for desert haha! She's even attempting to do her "bringing presents" thing she does by picking up a toy to show you whenever you walk by her pen. It's so sad that she can't do the little happy dance she usually does, but I'm hoping the instinct to show off to everyone will help push her towards a full recovery.
I feel more relaxed with her here, but at the same time a lot of my worries have shifted over. I'm concerned about her bladder still, and maintaining her progress at home but I'm hoping that nature will be on our side and get us both through this and back to four-on-the-floor soon.
Here she is....in prison haha!
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g261/elzpea/liliday8home_zpst6dmcjyx.jpg) (http://s58.photobucket.com/user/elzpea/media/liliday8home_zpst6dmcjyx.jpg.html)
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@MIN - Ouch! It sucks that we have to be cursed with those damn things. In 2014 I went through almost a whole year of having one every other day or so and it nearly ruined my life. Luckily they weren't "category ten" ones but I was still left with the exhaustion and residual head pain for a day or two after, only to then get another one straight away. It was horrible. Think I've had three this year so far, so I'm counting my blessing on that score too.
@Millie-moo2 - Thank you so much! Really means a lot to see such lovely words. :)
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That looks like a really cosy and plush 'prison' and your little prisoner is looking pretty pleased to be there! :luv: It must be so good to have her home, and you have good support from your vets, so try not to stress too much. Easy for me to say, I know I would be a total fruit cake :005: Hope you have a reasonably good night. X
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welcome home Lili :luv:
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Well....I went to get her out of the pen to go to her favourite pee spot (OMG! She's fast for a dog who can only use her front legs haha!) and noticed she looked wet around her back end. Looked into the pen and saw a small yellow patch on the vet bedding...picked it up to clean it and found she'd soaked through to the duvet underneath and then into the (thankfully waterproof) pad bed below that too...Lesson learned about lining with puppy pads and having spare bedding to hand....
But now I'm not sure if I should be worried that she's losing bladder control or something....
They've had to express her since day one, but with the accidental/excitement wee when we collected her, and now this, has me worried.
I guess either,
A. something is suddenly wrong with her bladder control now :-\
B. she's got the sensation to pee coming back but not the opportunity to, so she's just letting go when she can't hold it any more - because stupid me thought I'd have to express her...
Ugh! I don't know what to think now, and it feels like a horribly long wait until morning to ask one of the nurses.
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@ejp - Haha! :) I tried my best to make her jail time as cushy as possible. It is great to have her home, but also worrying too. So many things I'm unsure about. Trying to take it all in my stride, but it's all a learning curve I guess.
Thanks @MIN :)
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I think B x think positively you might just have to take her for a wee more often especially now she will be eating and drinking better x
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Welcome Home Lili!!! Glad to hear you're better enough to come home!!!
Sending lots of :bigarmhug: and a big lick from Humphrey!
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Lovely to see her home
You'll soon find a routine that works for you both, but she'll soon learn to make a fuss so that you take her out to the garden more often than she needs to go.
Darwin didn't wee on his beding but always weed on the towel slings we used to support him. So we ended up having a bag of used ones outside and I would hopefully do one load iof dog washing a day (usually at 6am!). Also we leant to have a box of clean up supplies etc by his crate, coat and crocs ready by the back door etc
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You will learn something new every day, it will take time to get into a routine. Don't get overly stressed about a 'wee' accident at this point, she may just need to go more often now. Her inner workings are a bit out of sync just now. Hallelujah for washing machines!! 😀
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Welcome home Lili - I bet you are so very happy to be at home and back in your own bed.
This time last week things were so bleak and now Lili is home :luv:
I think too it is a learning curve, while not ideal that Lili peed her pad - she did go, I would just take it one day at a time and just stay positive - yep every old towel or cut up old sheet that will come in handy over the next few days.
You will get into a routine and she will improve....little positive things to note each day
Just keep saying my girl is home :luv: and be strong for the both of you.
Lots of hugs to you both
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Day nine post op/first full day at home -
Really struggling to stay positive today....I'm so tired. Feel like I could sleep all day, and I think it's mainly because of the migraine I had on Sunday. Can't stop thinking that "this is our life now" and that things will never get better than they are.
It's making me so sad to see her frustrated. She's so desperate to do what she normally does - like follow us around, and steal things. As soon as I let her out of the pen she makes a bolt for the nearest pair of shoes or slippers to take one and do her little "parade" with it, only she can't do what she normally does and it's breaking my heart to see it.
She had another big pee accident around 2am (Tuesday morning) but nothing for the rest of the day. I couldn't express her myself and she wouldn't settle enough to concentrate on peeing when she was outside (she's so excited by everything!) so I had to take her back to the vet to be expressed this evening.
Feeling like a massive failure and like I'm not doing enough to help her recovery. I'm not sure she's drinking enough or if I'm letting her do too much or not enough. If we could just get the toileting situation in hand I think I'd feel better but I'm so scared that she may never make a full recovery, or anything close to one. I know it's early days but it all seems so impossible. I'm scared that I'm not doing enough for her, and what I am doing might be the wrong thing. Really feeling the weight of it all today.
On the plus side, I did see a couple of wags of her tail this afternoon and while sitting with her on the floor I've found if I place her paws properly she can stand by herself, she's not too strong and she look like she's about to topple any second but she's happy enough to do it and seems to be able to weight bear fairly well. Playing with her feet I also found she tends to push my hand away with one of her legs (her left I think). I really want to get her started on hydro and laser therapy to see if that'll help promote recovery but I'm so disheartened today. Seeing her struggle in her natural environment hurts so much and I feel hopeless.
Big thanks to everyone for the words of support and encouragement. Every bit of strength I can get helps right now. Sorry for the depressing update, I'm just so worried about her future and feel so impatient to get her body to match her spirit.
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Hang in there - you've achieved so much in just a few days.
It's no wonder you're tired, everything must be so physically and mentally draining.
One step and one day at a time, and in a week you will marvel at how far you have both come again.
Sending lots & lots of positive vibes for you and Lili.
Thinking of you both xx
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What brilliant progress Lilli is making :D
I would suggest reading your post from the very beginning when you are feeling uncertain about how well she is doing, or indeed you! It will give you a benchmark and I think will remind you just how worried you were that Lilli wouldn't even be coming home.
As a fellow migraine sufferer, what you described about yesterday is exactly how I would be. Stress doesn't help and for 48 hours after I am physically exhausted and if I'm honest I generally feel like everything is too much/overwhelming - even simple things like making a decision to keep a magazine!! (That would be yesterday ;))
Bladder control - I've noticed that my two guys had far less bladder control after being spayed. Although the procedure is very much in the same area, I think there was an element of bruising and internal swelling, which made it hard for them to last. It will take some time for Lilli to gain control again - she may have little accidents, especially overnight when she's asleep/relaxing and especially as it's only a few days since a pretty intrusive operation and anaesthetic. You may want to have a look at Jacobs Den who make blankets and beds for dogs that can't last through the night - not cheap but they are very good quality and do what they say they do.
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Good idea by Pop Star - you've both come an awful long way so far. Try to be kind to yourself, - if you recognize that all this is coming from overtiredness, then you can see that there's a light at the end of the tunnel. Is there anyone who could come and sit with Lili for a bit while you cart yourself off to bed or even go for a walk outside, just to try and put a bit of distance between it all for an hour or so? Houswork and other non essentials ( ;) ) can wait for a bit, spoil Lili and spoil yourself, what do you enjoy doing? Even just sitting down with a book or glossy magazine or some music might just distract you for a little while. There's nothing more depressing and demotivating than tiredness, its a bit of a vicious circle really as worrying also seeps at your energy. I really do think that, although often said, that literally taking each day at a time is the best you can do for now - try not to keep pondering about next week, just get on with today and concentrate on every little bit of progress. It isn't easy, but you're doing really are doing great - just hang on in there, we're all behind you!!! :luv:
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Lili has indeed come a long way in 9 days, it must be so difficult seeing her nor scamper for the slipper etc, but the wagging tail has to be a good sign, and you mention her standing.
Has the vet suggested to support her to stand etc, it might be much too soon but might be worth asking them.
Years back we inherited Nana old corgi, she was attacked by another dog and couldn't weight bare on front leg, after Nana passed she lived with Mum in law and she phoned us when dog was injured and hubby and I brought her home to us and Jay our cocker, understand this is so totally different, but they told me I must turn her every four hours and massage all her paws especially the injured leg and several days later encourage her to stand by hold towel under her belly. I used to lift her in garden and support her and she start after a few weeks to pee when standing and supported. I used to dress the wound daily and it never seemed to look better, but the vet saw her weekly and wowed at how well the wound was healing - but I couldn't see it myself and was convinced it was infected etc.
I do understand that Lili needs to keep still - but have they suggested massage.
You must look at how she has come on in last week to quantify her improvements, perhaps your Mum can see this more than you. It is so difficult when we are around them 24/7 to see this.
Look after your self.
As always sending hugs to you both.
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Gemma has been know to do covert pees. She will be asleep on your knee and you get that warm soggy feeling. There is no medical reason causing it. Just something that happens
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I have just been looking at these homemade supports which could be a temporary solution?
http://www.handicappedpets.com/lanies-homemade-dog-wheelchair
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Day 11 post op/Day 4 home.
Hey all,
Sorry for not updating for a couple of days, I've been feeling really disheartened about Lili's recovery. I don't think I realized how hard it would be when there's no veterinary nurses saying "she's done X today" or "she did Y earlier" and pointing out every little change in her abilities, so I'm finding myself just waiting for something to change and it feels like a change never comes...So the words "this how life is now, forever..." kept swimming in my head and knocking my confidence in her recovery and my abilities to help heal her....
But tonight, I actually saw her lift her left hind leg and scratch herself behind the ear!
She hasn't done that since she's been home, at least not that I'm aware of. I saw her try to do it yesterday but either she lacked the strength or the coordination to do it, but tonight she did it. I got so excited by it I burst into tears and she stopped and starred at me like "what the hell is wrong with you, woman?" haha! I really hope that's a good sign of progress...
Her right leg is struggling and not coming on as well as her left, which worries me. She's got some good reflexes there (I think, but I'm no expert) but when I stretch it out and push back to test stability it gives very easily, where as the right seems to hold well.
Took her to the vets today to get her stitches out. The nurses said she seems to be doing well. They saw her walking across the car park and agree that she's trying to get her legs going and her tail swishes away every second she's in the sling, but sadly not when she's lying down.
I've booked her in for her first hydro session tomorrow morning. Fingers crossed it all goes well. I'm going to try to get her in for laser therapy and acupuncture too, anything that might help her get back on all four paws. I can see how desperate she is to get back into her old ways and it hurts my heart that she can't do it. As soon as I open the pen door she rushes out as fast as her two (and a bit) legs can carry her and we have to hold her back to stop her racing all over the house.
She's so good with her physical therapy, but I'm not sure if I'm doing it with her enough. I spend about an hour and a half to two hours a day with her doing massage and passive movements with her. I feel like I could be doing more, but at the same time I'm worried that too much might not be a good thing either.
Erm...what else....Oh yeah, I actually managed to express her bladder yesterday, but unfortunately we've still had a few accidents. She won't go in any of her favourite spots, and I'm starting to think it's partly because she just wants to do everything BUT pee, and also because she's such an independent dog, and she's not really used to someone hovering over her while she goes. Plus the grim wet weather probably isn't helping either.
We have the back door open most of the time so she and our GSD tend to take themselves out to the toilet whenever they need, and she relies on him to ask if the door is shut (they would go outside together and pee in tandem, it's quite funny!) so I think her usual habits are hampering her in the toilet department. I want to try taking her out with our GSD but I'm scared to death something might happen to hurt her so I'm going to wait until she's (hopefully) a bit stronger and keep everything crossed that the toilet situation resolves itself once she's more mobile and can have her privacy again haha!
On a personal level, I'm still exhausted and drained of everything. Dreading the electricity/water bill coming in with all the extra laundry haha! Tonight is really the first night that I've left as if I could relax enough to watch a TV show or something just to zone-out for a little while. Hoping I don't live to regret it...
Here's a snap of her behind bars haha!
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g261/elzpea/liliday11_zpsyvcrb3o0.jpg) (http://s58.photobucket.com/user/elzpea/media/liliday11_zpsyvcrb3o0.jpg.html)
Huge thanks to everyone who has left messages of encouragement, support and advice. :luv: I can't tell you how much it helps to know that people care and understand. Thank you for having faith in me and Lili, I really hope once hydro gets started I'll be able to share more positive progress with you all.
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Looking good Lili :luv: I think she actually looks better in herself. And a scratch behind the ear is amazing progress, you try scratching behind your ear with your foot :lol2: Now you know I think that you are both making good progress, and you need to stop giving yourself a hard time! What is the occasional pee puddle between friends... if she had a gyppy tummy and left a mess you wouldn't worry so much, so just look it as all part of the healing process. If the vets were worried, they would tell you. Be kind to yourself :bigarmhug:
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Looking good Lili :luv: I think she actually looks better in herself. And a scratch behind the ear is amazing progress, you try scratching behind your ear with your foot :lol2: Now you know I think that you are both making good progress, and you need to stop giving yourself a hard time! What is the occasional pee puddle between friends... if she had a gyppy tummy and left a mess you wouldn't worry so much, so just look it as all part of the healing process. If the vets were worried, they would tell you. Be kind to yourself :bigarmhug:
Exactly! ;)
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it is encouraging news.
As for acupuncture . do not know the effects on dogs but if it has the same effect on them as it did on me then give it a whirl if the opportunity arises. Convinced that if I had not had it I would today be in a wheelchair (chronic pain due to muscle spasms)
But it is early days still and she is doing really well. Keep posting, we really are routing for you both
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Years back there was a TV series from the RSPCA vet hospital. The chief vet was an advocate of acupuncture on dogs.
I remember seeing a big Lab, with a back problem, that was struggling to move. With regular acupuncture we was running about.
Convinced me.
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Thinking of you both, this post does seem a little more positive, it seems like the vet has good follow up therapies, need to keep positive that all this will help. Look at where Lili is now - it truly is looking better.
Keep strong and know we are all thinking of you.
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Oh poor you I cannot imagine how awful this is..... please stay strong she needs you ....you are all she has xxx
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I have been away for a few days and I am so happy to see the improvements you have posted. It will take time and only do what you can both take, I have a spinal injury myself and I am told to work out what I can do and then do slightly less so not to put things under strain. Little and often is the way.
All the best for the both of you and she does look a happier girl at home.
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Day twelve post op/day five home - Lili had her first hydro session this morning - all reports are that she's doing really well and I'm so pleased. Walking into the clinic she was trying her hardest to get her legs going, which was great to see, she's certainly not short of energy haha!
The vet who operated on her was watching from one of the treatment rooms as she came in and he was nodding approvingly at how she was trying to walk and twirling around all crazy with excitement haha! I'm hoping the sixty percent chance he gave her has increased now.
She had laser therapy to start with (to warm her up) and then about a ten minute session (in two parts) in the tank on the underwater treadmill. Poor little soul seemed a bit bewildered by it all but she did so well. The therapist was really pleased with how she did, and as she was getting dried off she continued to keep trying to get up standing on her own and almost doing it a couple of times. So I'm really happy with how things are going so far. She's made so much progress in just twelve days, I'm feeling really hopeful that she's well on the way to getting this thing licked. She's back in for another session on Tuesday and hopefully looking at going twice a week.
The only downside was that the tissue of her scar is sticking to itself, and causing a bit of a lump, so I have to start massaging it directly to make sure it separates properly but other than that it's a thumbs up all round.
I asked about doing acupuncture with her but the therapist said she didn't think it was necessary right now because Lili is doing so well. But if she hits a plateau at some point they'll try it, but so far there's no need for it. Which I think is really good news, and also gives us an avenue to go down if her progress slows at any point. The therapist said it doesn't seem to be IVDD, which is good news too.
I also manage to express her bladder myself earlier and so she's comfortable in her pen having just had her pain med and some light physio. Overall, I'm feeling a lot more "lifted" today. I just hope her progress continues to build in the way it has these last couple of days. I'm so proud of what a little trooper she is and how she's trying so hard to beat this thing.
Here's her little post-hydro "I'm doing so good!" face haha!
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g261/elzpea/day12l_zpsi5slvs69.jpg) (http://s58.photobucket.com/user/elzpea/media/day12l_zpsi5slvs69.jpg.html)
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@ejp - Hahaha! That's a good point, I don't think I could do it with all the will in the world! Thank you so much. I am trying to look at it that way, and the therapist today seemed to think that once she's more mobile the toileting will come right too. I don't mind wet bedding changes and extra laundry as long as she keeps moving in the right direction. I'll be paid back tenfold for them when she's recovered. :)
@MIN - It's good to know you have positive experiences with acupuncture, a know a few people who swear it helped change their lives. It's nice to know we've got somewhere to go if Lili's progress slows down, hoping we won't need to try it but whatever it takes! :)
@AlanT - Really? That's awesome. I hope that if we need to try it for Lili that she has such good results. :)
@Jaysmumagain - Thank you so much. It means the world to know you're thinking of us. I'm trying my best to keep focused on the little goals and progressions. I expect there will be more down-days in the future but it makes good-days so much sweeter. :)
@Lillyann - I am trying :) As long as I can do all this stuff to help her, I will keep doing it.
@Markr64 - It's so good to know you can see the improvements in her. And that sounds like a good motto to me, overdoing it can so easily hamper progress, especially with spinal related things. Thank you so much. :)
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Just look at that wee face :luv: she looks so pleased with herself, and so she should be. That is a really good update, so pleased for you both. Xx
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Oh .... my ....aren't animals so amazing I have seen it on The Supervet with Noel just look at her joyful face if that face cannot give you strength nothing will :) xx
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She has such a happy face, so in her mind things might have changed in her little life - but she is home and when she looks at you to take her photo you see one happy and loving doggie face.
You are such a brave little girl.
As always hugs to you both.
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How are you and Lili doing? x
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What a sweet little face :luv: so pleased things are going as well as they are.
Some more :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: to help you
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Seeing that happy face has lifted me this morning. What a lovely girl. :luv:
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Day 16 post-op/Day 9 home.
Hi all!
Just got home from Lili's second hydro session and I'm pleased to report that she is doing really well.
She's up on all fours now, wonky as anything and intermittently "giving up" and letting both back legs drag for a second or two before she pulls them back up and goes on her wobbly way again, but considering only a few days ago she was struggling to get one leg under her, I'm thrilled.
She's managing to stand upright on all fours for quite a while now too, and her back is gradually straightening out as she moves around. She was a bit hunched to begin with, I think due to her instability on her legs more than anything. She walks pretty well in her sling (both legs are going now instead of one) but she's so desperate to get everywhere and smell everything that her front legs are going quicker than her back legs can manage, so it's a real struggle to keep her calm and paced. I worry that she's going to hurt herself with how crazy she can get at times, but I'm hoping her enthusiasm is won't hamper her progress in any way.
The therapist is very impressed with her progress and it's such a relief to see her improving bit by bit. I think the hydro therapy is really helping as we saw a big improvement in the strength of her legs the morning after her first session - which I was not expecting at all. She's still bewildered by it all, but after a few minutes in the water she gets into it and is happily bribed into keeping moving with some chicken haha!
I'm also spending around an hour and a half/two hours a day (in three parts) doing massage and passive movements with her on the floor. Her left leg is getting a lot stronger and she actually pushes against me with it now when I stretch it out. I'm getting kicks from the right one, but not the left yet...I'm hoping that will come soon as she's making such great progress.
The pessimist in me is just waiting for some kind of set back, because everything has gone so well so far, but I'm hoping with a bit more rest, and some more therapy she'll be back to her old self again and able to scamp around and get into everything as she loves to do.
Big thanks to everyone for all the lovely comments and for keeping her (and me!) in your thoughts. :) I'm certain all the positivity and love I've found here as been felt by us both and it's certainly lifted me through the lowest times.
Here she is, looking all wet and straggly and rather unimpressed by it hahaha!
(http://i66.tinypic.com/wwngvm.jpg)
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Thats a wonderful update, I'm so pleased for you and Lili!!. I'm sure the fact that you're being able to actively help with the massage etc has also given you a lot more confidence too and you're seeing results! WELL DONE!!
Hope the progress continues!!, keep us updated and lots of cuddles for Lili!!!
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Such a lovely update - I'm sure your special girl will carry on going from strength to strength xx
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Onwards and upwards Lillipickles, all the way back a normal life :bigarmhug:
Lesley and Dylan
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lovely to hear about her progress, she really is doing well
take one day at a time, I am sure you will get there
take care of yourself and your beautiful Lili
Maria
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That's fantastic news :luv:
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Oh Lili you have just made my day.....so delighted to read all about your progress.
You are a wonderful little girl and you deserve an extra special hugs from me today :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
One for your Mum too as she is so concerned about you :luv:
What a lovely little face you have Lili.
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Oh Lili you have just made my day.....so delighted to read all about your progress.
You are a wonderful little girl and you deserve an extra special hugs from me today :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
One for your Mum too as she is so concerned about you :luv:
What a lovely little face you have Lili.
This from me too - you are both doing so well :bigarmhug:
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She is a star - and you deserve a medal too. Such a stressful time, but it's all going in the right direction now. She has such a sweet, trusting face, no wonder you want to do the very best for her. Big hugs to both of you.
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Oh Lili :luv: you are such a clever and brave girl. Well done. :luv:
I think you are doing so well with her, you need to give yourself credit for that, you make a dynamite team :bigarmhug:
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Such good news girls., keep thinking positively .... thinking of you big hug from me :) xx
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Day 19 post op/Day 12 home/Third Hydro Session.
Hey everyone! Just wanted to bring you a quick update on Lili.
She's doing really well! She had her third hydro session this morning and did ten full minutes on the underwater treadmill. She's doing good on dry land too and her progress is impressing the therapists. (We had a new lady today, who was lovely!) She's standing on her own for quite a while at a time, and she's still quite wobbly but she's correcting herself whenever she falters and she's getting about really well considering it's just under three weeks since her surgery.
Trying to limit her is getting harder each day as she's so eager to get around and stick her nose into everything. She's trying to jump up more which freaks me out. She's so excitable, desperate to escape confinement and just generally back to her crazy Cocker self - which is great to see...even though her abilities are limited and that I'm in a constant state of anxiety about her hurting herself in some way because she's so ridiculously enthusiastic about everything haha!
Still a question mark over her peeing, simply because she still won't settle long enough to actually concentrate on peeing anywhere she's supposed to, but walking into the vets today she was so over excited she decided it was the perfect time do a wee. She actually seemed to be crouching in the right position to go, so even though it was super embarrassing - I'm taking it as a good sign that she's getting back the instinct of how to go properly. Hoping that once she's less limited in her mobility or hampered by the sling-thing, she'll be back to going properly at appropriate times and places haha!
But yeah, the main thing is she's going in the right direction. She's getting stronger (and faster!) and as cheeky as ever. Last night, while out of the pen to do her physio she tried to climb into the toybox (she likes to made a bed for herself in there) and so there was a mad panic to stop her haha! Then she decided it'd be fun to steal the kitchen roll I had next to me on the floor and parade around the living room with it for a minute or two - so she's definitely still my Lili, only her back legs are wonky but they're steadily catching up with her front ones.
Here she is, drying off after her "swim". I've been trying to get a picture of her up and about but it's a struggle with her being so mobile now.
(http://i66.tinypic.com/1zbffwl.png)
Thank you all again, so much, for the lovely comments and good wishes. Coming here never fails to put a smile on my face. Big hugs to you all for the wonderful support and encouragement. Hope each and everyone one of you has a fantastic weekend. :)
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Seeing Liili's littel face and hearing that she's doing so well puts a big smile on our faces too!! And to think you were worried you wouldn't be able to cope! My golly, you're doing a fantastic job, just shows what the love for a cocker can bring out in us!! ;).
Have a good weekend too - give yourself a big pat on the back and an even bigger cuddle for Lilii!
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Oh sweetheart so wonderful to read you are doing so well and see your happy little face.
Think you are becoming a water baby :luv:
Bet you never thought having a pee outside the vets would be so fantastic, but it is.
Hugs to you both as always
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I never get tired of seeing new pictures of that little face. So sweet and full of love. You are BOTH doing an amazing job.
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sounds like she is doing really well im sure the peeing will be fine ;) , the left leg is almost always the slowest to get back to full working order so don't worry about that too much. she is doing great :luv:
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Wow, she is doing well bless her, love hearing her updates. You both deserve something nice in your xmas stockings
Even I could not hold my breath for 10 mins while underwater on a treadmill :rofl1: :rofl1:
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Brilliant to hear the progress and see that lovely happy face. I am pleased for you and as others have said you have done wonders in nursing her back. Well done you.
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What a lovely update to finish the week, such good news! You and Lilia have both done so well. Have a lovely weekend. X
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Day 26 post-op/Day 19 home/5th Hydro Session.
Hey all!
Sorry for not updating sooner, life is so busy at the moment but I wanted to let you know how well Lili is doing.
Things are going really well. She's had two hydro and laser sessions since I last posted and she's getting a little stronger each day. The therapists said that they believe she's going to make a full recovery and that she's completely smashed their expectations. Which was amazing to hear.
She's doing seventeen minutes on the underwater treadmill now and she's able to stand solidly by herself and despite being a little bit wobbly when walking, being a little hunched still and getting her back legs "crossed" sometimes, she's moving about really well. A little bit too well because she seems to think she can have her "mad five minutes" racing around the living room and jumping/scratching her bed up again. So trying to curb her exuberance is getting harder all the time but it's a good thing because I think her enthusiasm and energy for life has really helped pull her through this.
I'm really happy with how well she's doing, and although I'm still worried she'll relapse or that her progress might slow, but everything going well so far is such a relief. It's been a month since surgery this coming Sunday (11th) and I'm amazed. Especially considering that the surgeon only gave her a sixty percent chance of recovery and had been talking about twelve weeks of waiting for signs of improvement. There's still a long road ahead of course, she's not one hundred percent yet, but I really do feel blessed that she's doing so well so far. Couldn't ask for more!
Thank you all so much for all the lovely messages of love and support, each and every one means so much and has been a huge boost during all this. Knowing that people have kept Lili in their hearts and have believed in me being able to help get her through this has been such a help and I don't doubt that all the love shown here has helped get us to this point. :)
Here she is this morning, drying off after hydro but keen to get out of her pen and start nosing into everything all over again haha!
(http://i66.tinypic.com/2vtdrbn.png)
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Thrilled for you both, have been following your story with interest.X
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Oh bless her, this update is so heartwarming, its brought tears to my eyes. So pleased for you, you've worked hard with her and done amazingly well and now itts paying off! All the best for Lilli and you, what a great Christmas you have to look forward to! PLease carry on with the updates, its lovely to hear positive news!!! :luv:
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:luv:
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Such a lovely update plenty of :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:for you and Lilli :luv: :luv:
Stephanie, George and Hamish xxx
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:luv: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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wonderful news and a lovely picture.
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A lovely positive and happy update :luv: Lilli looks really well, and you sound very positive. Well done. Xx
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What a lovely update, thank you for sharing :luv:
So pleased things are heading in the right direction for Lilli, you are doing an amazing job with her
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Such a lovely update :luv: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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Day 33 post-op/Day 26 home/7th Hydro Session.
Hey everyone!
Just wanted to bring you all a little update on Lili. She's doing great!
Had another hydro session today and she actually walked out of the vets without the use of her sling - which was so awesome to see. Especially after only thirty-three days post surgery!
She's still a little wobbly, "fishtails" and crashes into things a lot, so we're having to watch her carefully and pad some corners and stuff as we've started to let her potter around the house a bit now. (I use the term "potter" loosely since she seems physically incapable of actually walking anywhere calmly haha!) She's much happier now she's not totally confined to her pen and she's back to doing what she loves in snooping on everyone and "supervising" the household goings on.
On Tuesday, I was told that we can reduce the hydro down to once a week from here on out and that she doesn't need laser treatments anymore, which was great and I'm taking it as a sign of significant improvement. She also briefly saw the vet who operated on her in passing in the car park and he seemed really pleased with her and said she's a little star. He wants to see her again next month, so I'm hoping (with a little bit more good luck) she'll have a complete recovery in the bag by then. The therapist said I can start taking her out for five minute walks too, and when I asked if it's better to use a lead or a harness, I discovered that the cause of all the problems seems to have been a spinal cord lesion.
Reading up on it now, it says that the most common cause outside of an accident is IVDD, which has me worried but I'm going to wait to speak with the vet about that first before trusting Doctor Google too much. But obviously I'll be cautious with Lili from here on out, as I never want her to go through this again and since I don't know what caused it all to happen, I think I'll carry the worry about it happening again for the rest of her life, IVDD or not.
But the main thing is, she's doing great. I got my Christmas wish of having her (almost) back to normal, and I'm so relieved and grateful that she's come through this so well. Obviously there's still a way to go - we're not completely out of the woods yet but at least we can see where the car is parked now haha!
Once again, big thanks to everyone for all the love and support. It's been a tremendous help to know there are so many people out there wishing her well and keeping us both in your hearts. :)
Here's a pic of her with her big brother, enjoying a little taste of freedom once more.
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g261/elzpea/Lili%20and%20Ozzie_zpsojk6onsf.jpg) (http://s58.photobucket.com/user/elzpea/media/Lili%20and%20Ozzie_zpsojk6onsf.jpg.html)
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Aw, its been such a long road but she looks beautiful and happy. I hope she continues to improve and enjoys a normal, mad spaniel life !!
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Oh sweetheart what a wonderful little girl you are :luv: Certainly the brightness Christmas star, such a fantastic update, enjoy your outings gently..we know how you little cockers can just get a bit excited :005:
I guess there are going to be a few pressies around the tree for Lili...so mine are on the way with extra cocker hugs :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug:
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An absolutely wonderful update! What better way to get into the spirit of Christmas than experiencing a little miracle!!I'm so happy for you! Hope you have a relaxed and well deserved happy Christmas and that little Lilli continues to recover well. Sending love also to that handsome big brother of hers (I've got a soft spot for GSD's ) he looks like he's taking the role of Lilli Protector very seriously!
:bigarmhug: and :luv: to all of you!!!
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Lilli really is a Christmas miracle :luv: :luv: such a lovely update, Wishing you and Lilli continued good health :luv: :bigarmhug: :bigarmhug: Lilli's big brother is gorgeous :luv: :luv: he looks very caring towards her ;)
Stephanie, George and Hamish xxx
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What a fantastic update ~ you must be delighted. :clapping: :clapping: :clapping: I am sure Lilli will have a wonderful Christmas being spoilt and make sure you relax too; it's been a very traumatic time for you. :luv: :luv: Diana xx
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Really lovely to read this great update, so full of love and optimism. Wishing you all the very best for Christmas and the New Year and hope things continue to improve. :luv: :bigarmhug:
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Whoo Hoo fantastic news. little fighters, both of you ;)
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Lovely to read this update.
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:clapping: :clapping: :clapping: well done Lilli :luv: you are such a brave girl. :luv:
So pleased to read this update, I hope you all have a fantastic Christmas 🎄 xx
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So happy to read this she is a little fighter bless you both what a lovelye Cristmas gift to you bothxsX
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lovely update she has a sweet little face and her brother is lovely :luv: :luv:
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Wonder update and what a little star she is. Happy Christmas to her and of course to you.
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Hey everyone,
Sorry for not updating for such a long time, life has been chaos. Lili's spinal recovery has gone exceptionally well, and I had intended to post an update after her twelve week appointment with the ortho surgeon this week, but we had to cancel it as she came down with pyometra and less that forty-eight hours after surgery has developed an infection.
I've put the whole scenario in a different thread (hope that's okay) www.cockersonline.co.uk/discuss/index.php?action=post;topic=117821.150;last_msg=1696475 (http://www.cockersonline.co.uk/discuss/index.php?action=post;topic=117821.150;last_msg=1696475) Please say a prayer for her, I'm heartbroken to think after beating the odds with her spinal surgery that she will fall down now with this infection.
Thank you all for the lovely words of support and encouragement for her spinal surgery, I know all the positive energy from this board helped her get through that. I really hope that the love your guys have shown her can get her through this too.
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Oh no!! Poor little mite!! Sending all the good wishes and healing thoughts I can conjure up and hope with all my heart that she pulls through!! She's proved herself to be a fighter though, I'm sure she'll make it! Please keep us updated!! :luv:
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Hey everyone,
Thought I should pop a quick note here too linking to the other thread http://www.cockersonline.co.uk/discuss/index.php?topic=118342.msg1702120#msg1702120 Saw the ortho surgeon who operated on her back in November and he's pleased with her progress. He wants us to start building up to off lead exercise in another four weeks once her spine will be (we hope!) back to nearer full strength and once she's totally over the pyometra complications. She's allowed to continue hydro for a bit too (which she won't mind at all, because she loves it haha!) and we've got to go back for another spinal check up in a few months time. Here's hoping we get to that appointment without any further dramas.
Big hugs and many thanks to all of you who have supported us through all this. I'll keep you updated with any changes, but I'm hoping to put this run of bad luck for Lili behind us now.
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Hey everyone,
Thought I should pop a quick note here too linking to the other thread http://www.cockersonline.co.uk/discuss/index.php?topic=118342.msg1702120#msg1702120 Saw the ortho surgeon who operated on her back in November and he's pleased with her progress. He wants us to start building up to off lead exercise in another four weeks once her spine will be (we hope!) back to nearer full strength and once she's totally over the pyometra complications. She's allowed to continue hydro for a bit too (which she won't mind at all, because she loves it haha!) and we've got to go back for another spinal check up in a few months time. Here's hoping we get to that appointment without any further dramas.
Big hugs and many thanks to all of you who have supported us through all this. I'll keep you updated with any changes, but I'm hoping to put this run of bad luck for Lili behind us now.
Brilliant update!, SO happy for both Lily and you, hope she continues to make good progress and that you can both put all the distress of the last few months behind you!! What a little fighter she is, you must be so proud of her! Hugs, licks and best wishes Jayne nd Humphrey :luv: :luv:
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Thank you so much for the update, I was wondering how things were. Great news, and I really hope Lilli continues to get well.
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That's lovely to read. X
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So so pleased for you that Lilli is recovering so well, also I little green with envy as her recovery has been so much better than Darwin's!
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So pleased for you. Hugs to you and Lilli :luv: :luv:
Stephanie George and Hamish xxx