Grieving pet mom

[stlulo59]

Hi...Im brand new here. Im looking for support or encouragement about my sweet Lily's condition. She is a 5 yr old mini doxie....the joy of my lonely life since she was six weeks old. Yesterday her back legs stopped working during our morning walk...I had to carry her home. Thru the rest of the day she didnt even attempt to get up and refused food or water. When I picked her up, her backlegs just dangled...I got her to the vet this AM and after exam, he cooly said she needs to be put down and surgery would be a waste of money. Since I said I was not emotionally able to have her euthanized today, he gave her 3 days worth of steroids, antibiotics and pain RX. ....she recieved a dexamethasone inj. and ampicillin inj too.He said if she has not improved in 3 days she needs to be put down. I am horrified and hurting, cant stop crying...she is my best friend. Has anyone out there experienced a similar situation that had a positive ending?? How can I possibly do this? She is all I have in this world. Please?

[Renee750il]

We've had a couple of members who have gone through the same thing. They both, though, sought second opinions and better outcomes. It's definitely worth getting a second opinion, especially if you can find a vet who specializes in orthopedic problems.

I think acupuncture helped one of them, too.

[milos_mommy]

Definitely get a second opinion. We had a woman on here with a doxie with the same issues, and she ended up speaking to a few different specialists before someone would try surgery. Her dog was very close to fully functioning afterwards.

Not every dachshund with a back problem can be cured, so be prepared for that. But know that there is hope, alternative medicines, second opinions, and specialists you can go to before you declare it the end.

[Rach]

My heart goes out to you. I couldn't imagine. I would also seek a second opinion.

[MafiaPrincess]

I've seen dogs who previously lost rear end function regain it through chiro. While not the right option for every problem, we often see the same dogs when we go in and I've asked how they are doing. I've seen dogs carried in, that some months later could walk again depending upon what the problem was.

[Laurelin]

Oh, I am so sorry. I too would be going to another vet for a second opinion and some more options. I think an orthopedic vet or chiro is a good idea.

Did he tell you what exactly was wrong?

[ChristineB]

Stlulo59, I would be as devastated as you. Seek another opinion. At very least, when you have tried a different doctor, you will know you have/are doing the right thing by your Best Friend. You both will be in my thoughts and prayers for the best outcome possible. Good Health Vibes are sent your way!

[Doberluv]

I'm so very sorry you're going through this devastating finding. I can't add anything to the excellent posts above other than to reiterate what was said about a 2nd opinion from an orthopedic specialist. Don't lose hope just yet. I send you all the best wishes for a more hopeful prognosis. Keep us posted. There is a lot of support and caring to be found on this forum. (((hugs)))

[Greenmagick]

I would definitely get a second opinion and also look into Chiropractic and Accupuncture. It may be that the first vet is right but at least you will have time to explore your options and know you did all you could.

(((Hugs)))