canine acupuncture

Why the Standards of Care for Animals with Spinal Cord Injuries in Are Changing

Why the Standards of Care for Animals with Spinal Cord Injuries in Are Changing
Gidget in a cart from Eddieswheels.com

Earlier on my blog today I shared that Gidget isn’t able to use her hind legs, though after a visit to the vet, we aren’t exactly sure why. She’s not new to IVDD having been “down” before and rehabilitated by the rescue I adopted her from. And since I’ve gotten her she’s never fully walked “normally” but with a wobbly walk. But she is pretty much completely down in the hind quarters once again.

After I shared the post to Facebook about this, I received a note from Kim who runs Hotdog Hill Sanctuary in Virginia where she cares for disabled dachshunds, many with IVDD.

She shared a recent article she came across about the culture shift in veterinarian medicine regarding treatment of animal spinal cord injuries and disc disease.  I felt it worthy passing along the article. Just click on the link here:

Why the Standards of Care for Spinal Cord Injuries Are Changing

While I’m not an expert or a veterinarian, I have had my share of experience with three dachshunds with IVDD, as many of you know.

This newest information makes sense to me. And as Kim also stated via our discussion on Facebook having much more experience than me, “You know with so many- each different- we have to change up our routine to meet them- some get too stressed by crate/pen rest and it did more harm than good thrashing around, etc- – we know our dogs best and we have to use our experience too.”

With my recent episode with Gidget not walking again I must say also that I realized again how education is key. I was able to deal with this much more calmly as I know my options. I also feel I know Gidget best and what will, and won’t, serve her. I think this is crucial.

I’ve also come to accept that sometimes no matter what one does, the outcome may be the same. Being paralyzed isn’t a terrible thing and I do believe the stigma is becoming less and less. At least I hope so.

From my experience, paralyzed dogs don’t realize they can’t use their hind legs. It’s really no big deal to them. They continue to live life just like they did before. I’ve found often it is much harder for their care taker to handle it. And yes, I can personally speak to the fact that I didn’t want to accept this when my first dachshund went down. Oh! Did I learn a lot and I’m so grateful!

Another factor in sharing this article is that as always, I want to give hope to others who may face this with their pet. There are options! It just takes a little research, talking with your vet, determining your pet’s specific needs, patience, and most of all love.

I know so often people who are facing a pet with paralysis have carried a huge amount of guilt that they couldn’t afford surgery. But clearly, there are many ways in which you can help your pet. There is hope!

Thank you for sharing and subscribing to my blog updates.

Chinese Medicine, Dr. Andrea and Gidget: Update

Chinese Medicine, Dr. Andrea & Gidget: Update

Gidget getting her second acupuncture session

Today Gidget had a follow-up appointment with Dr. Andrea of Anshen Veterinary Acupuncture. She practices both Western and Chinese medicine. She is working with us to see if we can’t help Gidget with seizures she has had.

You have to look very closely at the photo above to see the needles along Gidget’s spine. Because of her coloring, they almost blend right in!

Gidget didn’t sit as still during this session as she did the first time three weeks ago. Though it could have been because this time we had a morning appointment verses last time we were there mid-afternoon.

But after reviewing everything with Dr. Andrea since our last visit, I’ve decided to try her on some Chinese herbs to see if that will help with the seizures and imbalances she has.

gidget and dr andrea

Gidget with Dr. Andrea

Gidget’s body being out of balance likely a long time since her diagnoses of IVDD before I adopted her, I feel, is definitely something that needs to be considered.

There are so many reasons why seizures can occur.  Oftentimes there is never a distinctive cause found, though I still have a theory with Gidget. But it’s really still a wait and see.

In the meantime, I’ve heard and read many good things about Chinese herbs helping with seizures so I want to give this a shot. I also incorporated a reading with my animal communicator, Dawn. From that reading I’ve incorporated massages I’m giving Gidget twice a day.

This has been an interesting journey to travel. From the beginning, in January, with her first seizure I just didn’t feel right putting her on medication should her seizures continue.

While she has had a total of six so far and two in April, I’m hopeful we are on the right track and she will be seizure free with the different modalities I’m trying.

I’m a believer in treating myself as a whole person when looking at when something is off in my own body and what could be contributing to an imbalance. And I feel the same way with animals.

Dr. Andrea has discussed Gidget’s diet with me, her personality, her habits, her environment, and so much more. All in an effort to try and determine the best way in which to try and help Gidget.

I’m not opposed to medication, but I also want to be sure that is the best and right route specifically for Gidget. While many drugs have come far in not being as toxic when treating for seizures, I have to follow what my gut is telling me right now.

It’s been difficult at times as I don’t want to cause any harm to my sweet girl. But in my heart I truly believe I’m doing the right thing for her for now.

If and when we need to add a drug, well then, I will surely do that.

But treating her as a whole dog is something I’ve leaned into over the years growing stronger in what I believe and being able to express that.

This is, at times, just as much about me as it is about her. I’m learning once again to stand in my truth and have faith I’m doing the right thing.

Meanwhile, in Gidget’s world, she is curled up under her blanket snoring away as I write this post. This is a good thing.

Thank you for subscribing to Joyfulpaws.com