My lovely Chocolate Labrador Max is 10 years old and lives with my mum.
He has always lead a happy, fit and healthy life. Walked 2-3 times a day, full of energy and honestly the friendliest and happiest dog you could ever wish to be a part of your family. We got him as a puppy and he has grown up around the stables, hes shared a house with kittens, cats, chicks and chickens, he doesnt bat an eyelid at rabbits, ducks or birds either. He hapilly lets my 22mo DS get in his basket with him and wouldnt make a peep if you shoved your hand in his dinner. Honestly hes just perfect.
Over the last few years his front left shoulder has caused him a bit of pain after longer walks but was fine with a daily anti-inflammatory.
Over the last few weeks his legs have got worse, hes still happy, friendly, eating and drinking but hes not enjoying his walks as much and he sometimes flinches or drops his back legs.
My mum took him to the vet this evening and he diagnosed him with Chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy (CDRM).
My mum asked about the treatment/prognosis and the vet said either keep him on the anti-inflammatory (not doing enough for him anymore) put him on steroids (he will put on weight which will make it more difficult for him to get about) or try some new medication, shes forgotten the name, which may or may not work and costs £200 a month.
She asked if they would see a difference within the month, he said if its going to work for him then yes.
So her plan at the minute is to try these new tablets at £200 a month for 4-6 weeks and see how he is. Then either continue with them if they work, if not keep him out of pain until his quality of life deteriorates then have him PTS.
Can anyone tell us more about CDRM? Is her plan the right one?