9 year old german shep with slipped disk

[MARI]

My german shep has just be diagnosed with a slipped disk. After looking at the Xrays my vet said that it is worse than he expected. She was first given an injection of prednisone, however, after 3 days there was no improvement. Since then he had started a more agressive approach using increased dosages of pred. tablets, which make her pant and breath very labored and of course extremely thirsty. Now she is wetting herself. I am not sure what is the less of the 2 evils at this point, steriod therapy or just letting her rest in hopes the pain will subside. I am sure very shortly I will have to make the decision of having surgery performed on her, which I am hesitant to have done because I am frightened for her and the pain she will endure. If anyone can give me input of their knowledge or experience on her condition, the meds she is taking (that I have begun to cut back on) and this type of surgery I would appreciate hearing from them. Thank You. Mari

[Marty]

She is probably in more pain now than with surgery. Biscotti had disc surgery about 6 years ago, and is doing fine now. I would think that if she is not improving after 3 days of steroids, that it is time to think about the surgery....it has better results the sooner it is done. She spent 5 days at the hospital and came home without pain meds. Either way, weeks of crate rest are needed...and lots of love and pampering..

[Traci]

Don't take it upon yourself to decrease the prednisone dose on your own, it must be gradually tapered, upon strict advice of your vet. If you taper it too soon, or cease it, there could be serious consequences (severe adverse reactions).

If your vet isn't experienced with surgery, request a referral to one who is. The referral can review your dog's medical records, the x-rays and can then determine if surgery, what technique, etc would best benefit your dog. I wouldn't wait on this, this is a very painful condition, and the sooner it is treated effectively, the better.

[davet]

i agree with Traci (agan)..Thisurgery requires some one who is very skilled int and if it is to be done, the sooner the beter..On a techincal side...the discs do not "slip", they usually become herniate with a rupture of thesc...But in any event, if you are to have surgery it should be done before any permanant nerve damage is done---good luck

[Marty]

I agree with having an experienced surgeon as well. Biscotti's event of course happened on a Sunday, but on Monday she was on her way to the University of GA Vet School. They were wonderful to her and us.

I hope you will keep in touch with us, regardless of what you choose to do.