We're waiting for test results from Missy's visit to the veterinary neurologist yesterday. In addition to a general physical examination and a lengthy review of Missy's medical history, the neurologist also repeated the tests for proprioception, or body position.
These tests were done with Missy standing. One test involves bending the rear paw back so that the weight would be supported on the back of the paw; a normal response would be for the dog to immediately reposition the paw, properly oriented with pads down. Another one is to move one of the back legs to cross over the other; again, a normal response would be for the dog to immediately uncross the legs to stand normally. Missy's response was quite delayed on both of these tests.
Blood was drawn for a complete blood count, an immune system profile, a Lyme Disease titre, and a thyroid panel. One of the practice's board certified orthopedic surgeons (actually, the same one who did Heidi's anterior cruciate ligament repairs!) did a physical exam and had x-rays taken for possible hip, joint, or spinal problems.
The exam, time taken reviewing her history, and the time taken with tests and procedures was well over an hour. I was quite pleased with the thoroughness exhibited and the time given to answering my questions.
This did come at a rather high monetary cost, though, especially as compared to what the costs probably would have been at the veterinary teaching hospital that we used for Jake's neurological consults following the accident and preceding the amputation (when we were still hoping he would regain the use of his right front leg). I'm still in a bit of shock from that. This practice is excellent but quite expensive.
I'm expecting to hear test results this evening or Friday morning, as well as a suggested plan for how to proceed with Missy's care. I'll update you all when I know more!
Shelley: I agree completely with you :) although this is all very interesting from a medical and scientific angle... it would be even better if it wasn't my own pets I was seeing it in!
Ann: No storms yet, at least not near my home or work! Re pet insurance: when I first looked into it several years ago, there were not as many plans and they were like HMOs, not for your own vet. That is not the case any more; I hear many more good reports than bad from people with pet insurance. We don't have it and after the first few months of this year, I wish we had. Some things were pre-existing or age-related conditions and would not have been covered anyway. It's worth looking into, though, and I will for any future pets.
Hi Kathi!
I'm wondering...do you carry animal insurance? David & I saw an add in a newsletter that our vet sends to us about an animal insurance (health insurance for your pets) that would cover all vet costs to you pet after you've met your deductible. We were thinking about checking into it, because 3 cats can get to be expensive. Just wondering if you have any thoughts on this!
Did that terrible line of thunderstorms hit your area at all today? We had 3/4" hail, strong (60mph) winds, deadly lightening, and horrible rain. Welcome to Spring in the Midwest...LOL. :)
I find this all so fascinating :D While I haven't studied animal medicine of any type, I'm a physiology major so have enough background to understand exactly what you are talking about. And it's interesting to see how my theoretical knowledge works in action. Of course I would like it even more if all your pets were well and you had nothing like this to post.