Angus and his terrible back

So glad we saw the specialist and he really explained everything that was going on with Angus--much better than any vet ever did in the past. He showed us the numerous new radiographs and old xrays, and explained things bit by bit. Spent at least a half hour with us, just telling us what was going on, as well as spending at least 20 minutes examining Angus and giving him lots of love, kisses, and pets. Really loving, affectionate, caring man.

I did have to close my eyes when he checked for numbness, etc by pinching Angus with the clamps. That was bad. But Joe watched and told me that out of about 20 pinches, Angus responded to about ten. And when A. knuckles under, he doesn't correct it himself, or even when the foot it touched. So all of that, plus the radiographs pretty much confirmed what I thought. The vet said we could do some other tests, but that most likely, it would be for no good purpose. I trust his judgment.

Seems that he has a genetic problem--scoliosis--that has worsened. He also has degenerative arthritis in his spine, bulging discs, numerous bone spurs, and some areas of fusion. There is very little we can do but keep him comfortable and try to reduce the inflammation.

He is on prednisone (just like his mom, haha) and this morning even lifted his leg a little to pee. I was so happy!! Then he tried to chase a cat, which is not happening LOL. I picked him up and we went on a short "carry" then sat and watched some workers in the complex. Then we went inside and he and I drank about a gallon of water. Now he is sleeping comfortably and I am watching him, thinking about how lucky I am to have him in my life.

Every day with him will be a gift. And I'm going to enjoy every minute.

Thank you all for being so supportive. Don't know what I would have done without you.

ugh, Kim. this is tough news, and I will send good thoughts that the prednisone helps keep Angus comfortable. give him gentle hugs from me!!

The funniest thing?? He doesn't even realize there is something wrong. He is the mentally healthiest creature I know. We should ALL take a page from him book. Nothing gets him down. He is still my happy, loving, enthusiastic little boy.
I've never known a more positive living being.
I will give him extra love from you, Allie. And maybe a little chicken breast with dinner tonight

No, not good news but it is important you know exactly what you're dealing with. That vet sounds wonderful. The main thing, as you well know, is to keep him pain-free for as long as possible. This can go on for a long time, he'll just become an intensive care baby and you're up for that. Love and hugs to you both.

The vet sounds great, and you've got a good attitude about what you're dealing with. Give Angus a hug from me...and The Jones Boys said to give him an extra bite of chicken from EACH of them!

monkeypigs4eva wrote:The funniest thing?? He doesn't even realize there is something wrong. He is the mentally healthiest creature I know. We should ALL take a page from him book. Nothing gets him down. He is still my happy, loving, enthusiastic little boy.

That right there tells me that although it wasn't good news, you could easily have a good long time left with him, and that is good news! When you stop seeing that Angus, the happy, loving, enthusiastic one, then you'll perhaps need to reassess, but for now, I think you're doing OK. Hugs to you!

Sounds like you both have a good attitude about it. And I don't know about you, but I can deal with pretty much anything as long as I know what the "anything" IS. It's the worrying and wondering and "maybes" that make me nuts.

So you know. You know what can be done and what can't and you go from there. He's lucky to have you as you are lucky to have him.

northernwitch wrote:Sounds like you both have a good attitude about it. And I don't know about you, but I can deal with pretty much anything as long as I know what the "anything" IS. It's the worrying and wondering and "maybes" that make me nuts.

So you know. You know what can be done and what can't and you go from there. He's lucky to have you as you are lucky to have him.

That's exactly it...the what-ifs are what kill me.
And I am definitely lucky to have him. Makes me smile a hundred times per day.

Kim, I know it is difficult, but you have the right attitude about this blow that has been dealt Angus. Dogs don't see themselves as disabled, they just work around it. His love for you is no less, and I know that your love for him is even stronger.

Hugs to you during this difficult time. Enjoy every moment you have togther, they truly are a blessing.
Hugs and prayers to you both,

I'm glad you found such a great vet. Give that sweet little man a smooch from me and Stella.

monkeypigs4eva wrote:The funniest thing?? He doesn't even realize there is something wrong. He is the mentally healthiest creature I know. We should ALL take a page from him book. Nothing gets him down. He is still my happy, loving, enthusiastic little boy.
I've never known a more positive living being.

Yes, when they're like that then it's all worth it, isn't it?

northernwitch wrote:Sounds like you both have a good attitude about it. And I don't know about you, but I can deal with pretty much anything as long as I know what the "anything" IS. It's the worrying and wondering and "maybes" that make me nuts.

So you know. You know what can be done and what can't and you go from there. He's lucky to have you as you are lucky to have him.

I have to second this...I am another one who HAS to know....

Everyday with him must be such a privelege!

I'm so glad you found a specialist you can trust and be really comfortable with. I can only echo what the others have said. You and Angus are lucky to have each other, and you really do have the best possible mindset about the whole situation. Angus has the best home possible.

I am so sorry about Angus's prognosis. I am relieved for you that you know what you are dealing with and also that you feel comfortable with your vet. In my opinion,I think that makes all the difference in the world. This way you can face it head on. By any chance do you have a stroller for your boy? It might come in handy for the both of you. I know from personal experience with me,when I'm hurting like heck,having something to lean on when walking helps. Like when shopping(which I dread)I always grab a cart even if I just need to pick up a few things.

Hugs to the both of you,
Trish

Miss Pit wrote:I am so sorry about Angus's prognosis. I am relieved for you that you know what you are dealing with and also that you feel comfortable with your vet. In my opinion,I think that makes all the difference in the world. This way you can face it head on. By any chance do you have a stroller for your boy? It might come in handy for the both of you. I know from personal experience with me,when I'm hurting like heck,having something to lean on when walking helps. Like when shopping(which I dread)I always grab a cart even if I just need to pick up a few things.

Hugs to the both of you,
Trish

Haven't tried a stroller yet. Not sure he'd stand for it LOL. I'd have to strap him down to keep him in it. But in the future, it might work out. Also thinking of carrying him in some type of baby sling for days when my hands are too painful to carry him.
I cannot wait to get a yard again, so he can enjoy the outdoors without being restricted by the leash.

Kim, I just found the name of the acupressure book my holistic vet recommends. It is called "The Well-Connected Dog: A Guide to Canine Acupressure" by Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis. They might have it at your local library, or it is available on Amazon.

About how much does Angus weigh? I have a front carrier pouch type sling that you strap on,so you can put a small dog or cat(s)(which is what I did and Quig when he was puppy) into. If it is big enough for Angus,I can send it to you.

Trish

Rebecca and the Pugs wrote:Kim, I just found the name of the acupressure book my holistic vet recommends. It is called "The Well-Connected Dog: A Guide to Canine Acupressure" by Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis. They might have it at your local library, or it is available on Amazon.

I'll look that one up at the library and if they don't have it, buy it on Amazon. Thanks!

Miss Pit wrote:About how much does Angus weigh? I have a front carrier pouch type sling that you strap on,so you can put a small dog or cat(s)(which is what I did and Quig when he was puppy) into. If it is big enough for Angus,I can send it to you.

Trish

Thanks Trish, but that's why I haven't bought one yet...most of them don't go up to 23 lbs LOL. I think I might have to make one or find someone who can make one.