Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Dog IVDD: Paralyzed legs, scared of anesthesia. Other options?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 10 years and 5 months old | 25 lbs

Hello. My dog went in for a procedure for IVDD but went into cardiac arrest during the end of the Mri so surgery didn't happen. She has a bulging disk and a blood clot in the mid left side of her spine. I am more than worried to have her go back under anesthesia for the procedure should her cardiologist say her heart is ok. Are there any other options she has to get rid of pain and potentially fix her back legs due to the IVDD. Her back legs are paralyzed but still have feeling. Any suggestions?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on April 8th, 2018

Oh my! How scary! I don't blame you for being worried about her going back under anesthesia. I would definitely have a cardiologist look at her. Of course surgery is the best option for her back, but it may not be worth it if she can't tolerate anesthesia. I would talk to the surgeon or neurologist about other options like high doses of steroids to see if this would help. Also, acupuncture and chiropractics have helps in some cases along with steroids. Unfortunately, this is a difficult decision because neither option is guaranteed to cure her paralysis. It is all about this risks versus benefit. I think you first have to see what the cardiologist says and see if a certified anesthesiologist would be present for surgery and whether they all feel the risk of Mia going back under anesthesia is worth the possible benefits of surgery. I hope this helps!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored