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My dog's paralysis is worsening. Meds aren't helping. What's next?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | 9 months and 29 days old | 58 lbs

My Labrador boy had developed lower limbs paralysis 2 days back now worsening to upper limbs and now unable to lift the head up. He is in this position ( 2nd picture) . My vet given Depometrol injections. Not improving yet. What you think about this? What about the X-ray and is it compatible with the symptoms. What I should do now? Thank you

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Summer Walker, DVM, MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 18th, 2017

I am not sure of your location, but also make sure to check Dexter thoroughly for the presence of ticks. Tick paralysis can present in a similar fashion and is typically non-painful. Removal of the tick and supportive care results in a full recovery majority of the time. Another potential is coondog paralysis if Dexter has had any contact with a raccoon recently. As everyone else has stated, there is always the potential for an infectious or inflammatory CNS disease, trauma, or a congenital abnormality. He may need more advanced diagnostic imaging (CT scan, MRI) and CSF tap to obtain a definitive diagnosis. Most of these diagnostics are performed by board-certified veterinary neurologists.

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    Answered By Emily, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Dexter could have an infection causing his signs as well as an injury to his neck or even a congenital abnormality like Wobbler's disease given his are. As the steroids aren't helping I would recommend discussing treating him with the antibiotic doxycycline, further imaging like a CT scan and even a referral to a veterinary neurologist. I can't see anything obvious on that X-ray to be causing these signs.

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