Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | 12 years and 9 months old | 60 lbs
Dog diagnosed w/Cushings & hypothyroidism (and on meds for both). Went to vet 'cuz she quit walking. She's been home 1 week, still not walking. We haul her outside in a wagon then use a plastic tote to support her middle so she will hopefully use the bathroom. Mylogram was done, no spinal problems. Has feeling in all parts of body. While supported, puts weight on front legs (but not much on back legs). Some days she seems to be in pain. Not much appetite. Help, please!!!
1 Answer
Published on July 29th, 2017
Sorry to hear about Dakota's current predicament. Assuming that her two endocrine conditions are well managed, the problem with mobility is likely a separate problem entirely. A myelogram is certainly a decent option for discovering certain abnormalities in the spine, but the best way to rule these out involve a CT Scan or MRI. These are tests that are available only through a specialty hospital in most cases. If she has feeling in all of her limbs, I have doubts that the disease process is of spinal origin however, particularly if this has already been going on for a week. Other causes of lack of mobility are certain infectious diseases (tick borne diseases in particular), traumatic injuries to the spine (fractures to the actual vertebra), severe arthritis, and several different cancerous processes involving the bones and spinal cord. There are also degenerative neurologic conditions that can affected any of the limbs or the brain, ultimately resulting in mobility issues. I tend to lean towards an infectious process or arthritis since there is pain occurring from time to time. I would say that investigating this issue in more detail with your vet would be worth while, with some blood work and a check for tick borne diseases. Hope this helps!
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