Missy's latest test results are back. Both the ACTH stimulation test and complete urinalysis came back as normal, so we are fairly sure she does not have Cushing's Disease.
While that is good news, it does mean that we still don't know for sure what is causing her weakness in the rear. I am sure some of you are thinking "my God, she is eleven years old! See if you are walking around steadily when you are 77 years old!" Of course some (or maybe all) of this is probably age related degeneration. But if there are therapies or dietary changes or supplements or, as a last choice, drugs, that will help her be more comfortable, I still want to know about them.
Next step... consultation with a veterinary acupuncturist. We are fortunate to have a well-regarded one as a member of our primary vet practice's staff. We may also consider veterinary chiropractic or conventional physical therapy. More on that after a few phone calls are made.
Yay for Missy!! *hugs*
YAY!! I'm so glad she's ok!!!!!
Yay for Missy! Glad the tests results all came back within normal limits. She is so lucky to have such caring & loving owners!!! :)
There's so many different things that could be causing her weakness. Has anyone checked for LS yet? My baby coco (10 year german shepard) has LS that has really been improving, amazingly enough. But that was at one point causing weakness in her back end and she was showing some neurological problems with her feet. Theres nothing really to do for it except PT, but its an answer :) Also check for other neurological diseases and hip or knee problems :) *hugs* Hope all is ok! And let me know how the acupuncture goes. Ive been doing some research on it, but I would love to hear about it from you!
Yay for Missy! And I had no idea they had veterinary acupuncturists, how wonderful!
;)Hi Kathi,
Just found your site via MT and I haven't even gotten around to see what else is here, but I wanted to let you know that we are really interested in vet acupuncture for one of our pups. She is only 4 years old and has already undergone surgery for a torn ACL and she has hip dysplasia in both hips. If you do decide to go that route I would love to get your feedback on it!
Goodluck I hope they are able to help Missy.