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Dog's hind legs weak, no pain. Is a wheelchair okay before a specialist?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Staffordshire Terrier | Male | neutered | 9 years old | 50.1 lbs

I took my 9yearold dog to the vet yesterday because he woke up not being able to use his hind legs the seen no abnormalities in his xrays he can still wag his tail just can’t not stand on his hind legs he will move them some while he is laying down I can not afford 4500/5500 for the specialist at this time he does not seem to be in pain he is his happy playful self would getting him a wheelchair until I can afford the specialist help and be ok and I of course keep a close eye on him

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on March 13th, 2020

Without a full physical exam it is impossible for us to guess if this would be appropriate for Throttle - you should discuss this with the vet that examined him. It would be important to know if he has feeling and reflexes in the feet and along his spine as this helps to estimate the severity of any possible spinal injury. If the spine may be unstable then moving in and out of a wheelchair may make things worse. Antiinflammatory medications, acupuncture and chiropractic care may all help where specialist spinal surgery is not an option

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    Answered By Anna M., DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi there, I'm sorry to hear Throttle isn't able to use his back legs! I'm not quite clear on what your question is... but I think it's certainly reasonable to give Throttle some time to see if his symptoms improve with time - some causes of hind end weakness/paralysis can improve, such as FCE (fibrocartilagenous embolism) while others are less likely to. I'd defer to your regular vet's input, since they've seen Throttle, but if they feel he's comfortable and happy, I see no reason why you can't just give supportive care and see how he does! All the best to you and Throttle. If you want to discuss his case in more detail you're certainly welcome to request a consultation!

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