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by Mindhunt on 13 March 2010 - 23:03
Anybody have any experience with or knowledge about degenerative myelopathy in Shepherds? My big male (almost 10 yrs old) has started with a bit of wobble to his back end, intermittent mild ataxia (excellent OFAs) and his spine is sticking out a bit more then it used to, he is starting to drag his back toes just a tad when tired. He is in good physical shape, he gets walkies, chases balls, and swims. My vet has suggested that he may be experiencing the beginnings of DM and this is the first I have ever heard of it so needless to say, I am beginning my research. She has suggested accupuncture and supplements. Just curious what all of you have heard about it. I am floored to say the least and a bit concerned.
by Nans gsd on 14 March 2010 - 00:03
Have you given him the cheek swab test?? It is listed here on the forum where to order; you can call and order the test for something like $58.00; it is just a cheek swab and send it in. They will let you know if it is truly DM or maybe just old age; I am so sorry he has to go thru this crap; our seniors don't deserve this.
Also keep in mind that as they age, especially these big guys, when T10 starts wearing out; which is what propels the dog forward, they can start having trouble in the rear until such time they can no longer get up at all. NOt very encouraging, but this may help to explain what is happening during this aging process. Nan
PS: what kind of supplements did your vet recommend??
Also keep in mind that as they age, especially these big guys, when T10 starts wearing out; which is what propels the dog forward, they can start having trouble in the rear until such time they can no longer get up at all. NOt very encouraging, but this may help to explain what is happening during this aging process. Nan
PS: what kind of supplements did your vet recommend??
by Mindhunt on 14 March 2010 - 23:03
I will check out the cheek swab, my vet says he has all the symptoms and his father had it when he died at 14 years old but it wasn't the reason for his death. As for the supplements:
Vitamin E with Selinium
Vitamin C
Omega-3
Lecithin
Coenzyme-Q
GLA
Grape Seed Extract
Feverfew
Calcium
All of these are to be used carefully and incrementally. Swimming is the absolute best exercise and Acupunture, about 5 sessions (if it doesn't work in 5 sessions, it will not work at all).
Just a difficult time since I have helped friends put down 2 horses, 5 GSDs in the last 18 months. One friend had a horse (colic/torsion) and a GSD (seizures) within 6 months of each other. Two had DM, one was dysplastic, one poisoned. Rough year and a half.
Thank you for your suggestions
Vitamin E with Selinium
Vitamin C
Omega-3
Lecithin
Coenzyme-Q
GLA
Grape Seed Extract
Feverfew
Calcium
All of these are to be used carefully and incrementally. Swimming is the absolute best exercise and Acupunture, about 5 sessions (if it doesn't work in 5 sessions, it will not work at all).
Just a difficult time since I have helped friends put down 2 horses, 5 GSDs in the last 18 months. One friend had a horse (colic/torsion) and a GSD (seizures) within 6 months of each other. Two had DM, one was dysplastic, one poisoned. Rough year and a half.
Thank you for your suggestions
by beetree on 15 March 2010 - 00:03
Not fun at all. Though my dog had something more accelerated at a very young age. Anytime someone says dragging the back toes and wobbly behind, I get all tight inside. It eventually progresses until it is about providing comfort, they let you know when they want it to end. Best wishes with your dog. If you've gone through this with your friends' dogs, then the first thing you have to watch for is infection and injury of the dragging foot.
by Paul15 on 15 March 2010 - 01:03
My male started wobbling at 7.5 years after his annual check up at 7. Did bloodwork at 7 since he was becoming a senior. All was normal. Dragging one foot then the other started just 5 months later until he could no longer walk. It was time for his misery to end. Just shy of his 8th birthday, he had to be PTS.
Paul
Paul
by Lief on 15 March 2010 - 09:03
if the dog has a preliminary disgnonsis they will test it for free call OFA and ask them about how to get the test 1 800 442 0418
by VomMarischal on 15 March 2010 - 11:03
Paul, that's so sad. Poor dog, poor you.
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