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My dog had a spinal stroke

MissCroft

Sweetie Pie
Feb 23, 2004
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Toronto
:(Getting some medical info from the vet and some info on line but has anyone here experienced this with their dog? I am worried about her - she's only 8 years old and this happened very suddenly. She is now paralyzed pretty much from the waist down. :(
 

SchlongConery

License to Shill
Jan 28, 2013
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Here is what I found quickly, but you probably already read it:

http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/06/03/fibrocartilaginous-embolism.aspx

Just a few paragraphs but much more in the linked article

A fibrocartilaginous embolism, or FCE for short, is a blockage in a blood vessel in the spinal cord. It’s often referred to as a spinal cord stroke.
A fibrocartilaginous embolism occurs when a fragment of the nucleus pulposus inside an intervertebral disc escapes into the blood vessel of the spinal cord and causes an obstruction. This affected area of the spinal cord then dies.
Unfortunately, neurologic loss that occurs within the first 24 hours is usually permanent. The good news is the condition isn’t progressive. Any pain usually resolves within 12 to 24 hours. And with immediate treatment, primarily involving very intensive physical therapy, most dogs experience significant recovery.
An FCE typically results from an injury to the spinal cord often caused when a dog jumps or lands awkwardly. Sometimes vigorous exercise can do it. Dog fights, really rough play, or any sort of accidental trauma can also lead to an FCE.
Fibrocartilaginous emboli are rarely seen in cats and occur most often in large and giant breed male dogs, and also miniature Schnauzers and Shelties between three and six years of age. It’s possible an underlying condition common in these breeds called hyperlipidemia, which is a high blood cholesterol level, could be a contributing factor in smaller dogs who acquire the condition.
....


The recommended treatment for FCE, even with animals with a poor prognosis due to swelling or decreased pain sensation, is to begin immediate and aggressive physical therapy.
Studies show that physiotherapy instituted immediately after diagnosis can have a major influence on recovery. This should include hydrotherapy (walking on an underwater treadmill), as well as acupuncture, laser therapy, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, range of motion exercises, massage, and supplements."

 

babyfinsta

Well-known member
Jul 2, 2005
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On top of yo mama!
Sorry to hear that u r going through this Chloe. As a fellow dog owner, i know this must be heartwrenching for you. All you can do at the moment is to give her as much attention as possible.
 

GPIDEAL

Prolific User
Jun 27, 2010
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Not good but can she use her fore legs to get around a bit? She will have to get accustomed to the disability. Sorry to hear about this, and good luck.
 

Titalian

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Nov 27, 2012
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:(Getting some medical info from the vet and some info on line but has anyone here experienced this with their dog? I am worried about her - she's only 8 years old and this happened very suddenly. She is now paralyzed pretty much from the waist down. :(
OMG. that just happened to my dog Zak about three weeks ago, but he's a lot older 14. He's up walking around again. Give it some time the doc told me they normally come out of it. Is yours a Terrier ?
 

GPIDEAL

Prolific User
Jun 27, 2010
23,333
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OMG. that just happened to my dog Zak about three weeks ago, but he's a lot older 14. He's up walking around again. Give it some time the doc told me they normally come out of it. Is yours a Terrier ?
That's good news. Whew.
 

MissCroft

Sweetie Pie
Feb 23, 2004
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Toronto
Thanks guys. :) She is otherwise still healthy and happy and smiling, eating, etc.

If her legs don't get better, the vet has talked about a sort of 'doggy wheelchair'. There is actually a dog in my neighbourhood who wears a wheel device on his hind legs and I assumed he had been hit by a car or something but maybe it was also due to a spinal stroke. I'll have to ask the owner. He looks cute walking around on his wheels. :)


Not good but can she use her fore legs to get around a bit? She will have to get accustomed to the disability. Sorry to hear about this, and good luck.

Yes, her front legs are fine. :)


Is yours a Terrier ?

She's a black lab.
 

MissCroft

Sweetie Pie
Feb 23, 2004
7,131
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Toronto
After speaking to the vet, her tail is now wagging and there is a bit of movement in one of her legs. :) Going to visit her shortly. Thanks guys!
 

Insidious Von

My head is my home
Sep 12, 2007
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So sorry to hear of this MissCroft.

The problem is worse if it's a big dog. My dog Chata (part Lab part Vizsla) was stricken with this, she lost the use of her hindquarters and lost control of her bowels. I had no choice, it broke my heart.
 

spraggamuffin

Well-known member
Oct 6, 2006
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Glad to hear your dog might be on the mend. Prayer can do wonders.

There are many instances where dogs have recovered from this so hang in there.

I'm always researching stuff for back problems for people I know and looking for natural solutions.

Here are some links you may be interested in.

http://www.organic-pet-digest.com/dog-stroke-and-seizures.html

http://www.cancertutor.com/spine/

I would have enquired about aspirin/blood thinners for your dog.

There are off course natural blood thinners like vitamin E and Omega 3's.

Proteolytic enzymes like serrapeptase may be of help as well.

Vitamins B and C for nerve health is also a consideration.

Best of Luck.
 

Insidious Von

My head is my home
Sep 12, 2007
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For those who may not know a Vizsla is a Hungarian Pointer. The dog's American cousin the Redbone Hound had a role in The Outlaw Josie Wales.

 

Insidious Von

My head is my home
Sep 12, 2007
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A well trained and cared for dog will guard it's master's turf no matter what comes along.

 
Ashley Madison
Toronto Escorts