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The doghouse

If you're worried about your pet's health, please speak to a vet or qualified professional.

Original poster

PruDog is at the vets - hind leg problems - handholding please?

15 replies

ViviPru · 26/02/2014 16:31

1y/o basset hound has been skipping her back legs, occasionally inexplicably wincing in pain and crossing her legs when standing still.

Naturally I've not been able to resist the urge to google and even though I should know better, now I'm sick with worry.

My Mum's taken her as I'm supposed to be working and I'm awaiting her call.

worry worry worry

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incogKNEEto · 26/02/2014 16:33

I will offer a hand to hold, hopefully it's nothing serious (step away from Google!) and you'll hear back soon.

Original poster
ViviPru · 26/02/2014 16:35

Thank you so much - how ironic you username is - we suspect Luxating Patella!

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incogKNEEto · 26/02/2014 16:45

It is rather apt! Would that mean an op for Prudog? Hopefully it's just a sprain (or the dog equivalent). It's worrying though when they're at the vets, do you know what time her appointment is?

I love Basset hounds, they have such soulful faces Smile

Original poster
ViviPru · 26/02/2014 16:51

it was at 4pm....

Now I am the Worlds Leading Authority on Dog Leg Conditions, (thanks, 10 minutes on google) I can tell you that there are varying degrees of treatment, from pain management though several surgical procedures ranging from simple filing of the bone to full-on pins and joint support...

I've also been reading about congenital disorders with similar symptoms, and have convinced myself she is destined to lose the use of her hind legs. Very odd for me as I am usually a natural optimist. I think I'm just a bit scarred after previous dog-related unexpected tragedy....

(p.s. thank you for humouring me!)

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Original poster
ViviPru · 26/02/2014 17:22

Well the vet doesn't think it's Luxating Patella, and has booked her in for x-rays. My Mum said the vet said they would need to look at her spine.... Appt is Monday. Will report back Sad

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Booboostoo · 26/02/2014 18:02

If she reacts with pain in her back it could be a slipped disc. It sounds scary but can be easily resolved with an operation. I would advise you to go to a specialist ortho vet though (the dog would also need an MRI for the diagnosis).

Good luck!

Original poster
ViviPru · 26/02/2014 18:22

Thank you Booboo. The more I think about it the more a back issue makes sense, her being a Basset. Bring of working bloodstock she is not a standard heavy-set show type and is exceptionally fit. She's super active and comes hiking with us (often through rough terrain over distance) so there's every chance she could have strained it...

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incogKNEEto · 26/02/2014 21:06

It does sound like it could be referred pain from her back, how long do you have to wait for the X-ray? Bassets do have a long back:short legs ratio don't they? Will keep my fingers crossed for you that it's something easy to resolve.

daisy5569 · 27/02/2014 06:25

I had a jack russell who was diagnosed with mild problems with discs in her back which resulted in her occasionally having problems with her legs although in her case it was her front legs.
She was a short legged stocky little thing and I'm sure she damaged her back throwing herself at the door when the post arrived.
In her case she didnt need surgery and she only had a few occasions where her legs played her up and on those times she had to rest (not easy with a little nutty terrier) and take metacam for a little while.
She lived to 15 1/2 and passed away at home last September so it didnt prevent her having a long and happy life, hope your girl gets well soon, and I agree stay away from Google.....I find when googling I can fit most symptoms to a range of conditions and end up scaring myself Grin

Original poster
ViviPru · 27/02/2014 07:34

Thank you both Thanks X-Ray is on Monday. That's good to hear, daisy.

She seems totally fine other than these intermittent symptoms so for now I'm just going to enjoy her company and try not to worry too much!

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HoneyDragon · 27/02/2014 07:39
Original poster
ViviPru · 27/02/2014 09:37

Aww thanks HD. She's a particular fan of the bonio box!

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Original poster
ViviPru · 05/03/2014 16:30

Update - The X-rays showed two unrelated problems - slight early indication of hip dysplasia, and also there is an irregularity in her spine, two of her vertebrates are very close together.

The symptoms we presented with could be being caused by either one of these or a combination, the vet has referred the x-rays to a specialist canine orthopedic surgeon for more detailed diagnosis, we're hoping to hear by the end of the week Sad

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Booboostoo · 05/03/2014 17:18

I am sorry to hear it's two things but they are both manageable. If it's spinal impingement the operation has a very high success rate and is easier on dogs than on humans. My GSD had two such operations with a 6 weeks walk on lead recovery which is not that bad in the scheme of things.

The specialist is the right place for your dog to be. They see this kind of thing all the time and should be able to advice on a medical route if possible.

Original poster
ViviPru · 06/03/2014 00:22

Thank you , Booboo. That's very reassuring Smile

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