Jackdoodle's MRI

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

JD had his MRI today. It went well, he was very confused and nervous, but they let me stay with him until they were ready to give him the general anesthetic, and he was first in line. He got fluids and antacids intravenously and he has been doing fine. We were there about 6 and a half hours. This evening, he ate a little dinner and kept it down, and even took a short walk. I think he'll be back to normal tomorrow after a good night's sleep.

He has a ruptured disc in the lumbosacral area of his spine. The diagnosis is "right lateralized L7-S1 nerve root compression (Type II IVD)".

I saw the images of the disc pressing on the nerve on one side, which would have been very interesting if it hadn't actually been pictures of my dog's spine.  

The surgeon said that surgery would fix it, but suggested that we try conservative treatment first, specifically acupuncture, chiropractic, and possibly laser therapy, whatever the latter might be. He also said that if this were you or me, surgery wouldn't even be mentioned at this point, which made me feel better. I got a referral to a holistic practice which JD's IMS had also recommended to me in the past. The place looks like a New Age spa: http://www.kindspiritshealing.com/

This is uncharted territory for me, but if it can help JD without more drugs that might exacerbate his IBD and spare him from having to undergo spine surgery, I'm sure going to give it a try.

The surgeon also did a needle aspiration of a lump on JD's side. He has several lipomas which have been aspirated by his regular vet in the past, but this one seems firmer than the others. The surgeon will call me with the results next week, I'm hoping it's the same thing as all the others, just a harmless fatty tumor.

JD and I want to thank you all for your good thoughts and prayers over the past few days; I was a nervous wreck worrying about today, and I am just so thankful that this part is over and I have him home here resting comfortably. Think I'll go join him.

Stay tuned for the adventures of Karen and JD in the world of holistic, alternative healing, coming soon!

 

 

[Nancie & Gracie Doodle]

Karen...I have been thinking about you and JD all day and I'm so glad that he came through the procedure just fine.  He still might be a bit groggy tomorrow too.  I know that it usually has taken Gracie two days to be her perky ol' self when she has had to be anesthesized.  Keeping my fingers crossed that what medications he was given during the procedure don't leave any lasting affects.  Thank you also for taking the time to send me that nice note on Gracie Doodle.  You are an amazing person to be in the middle of your own heartbreak and take the time to help another out.  I appreciate it more than you know! Hugs and kisses!  Whisper in JDs ear that we love him!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Nancie, and you do the same for Gracie Doodle!

[Linda, Charlie Brown and Beau]

Karen ~ I like the way your surgeon thinks.  Looking forward to hearing your experiences in the alternative medicine world.  I have heard many great stories from friends who have had major relief from alternative therapy and were actually able to get well without surgery.  Hang in there! 

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Linda.

[Christine & Camus]

I'm so glad that JD had the MRI, that you have a diagnosis, and that a conservative approach may work! Now for the tie-dye, I like the idea of a headband, and maybe some love beads, but since he is president of the NDC how about a tie-dye scarf?

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Christine, I was thinking granny glasses with pink lenses. ;-)

[Christine & Camus]

Hmmm... You think Adina would do a photo feature of the The Hippy Doodles?  Everyone get your doods and cameras ready - JD could be the leader, at the podium giving a speech on love and peace at a "Sit-in" of Doodles. :)

[Doris, Knox & Flash]

I'm so glad that you have some non-surgical options! What a relief! I will continue to pray for both of you! Lots of love from Texas!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Doris.

[Ricki and Tara (doodle)]

So glad to hear that Jack tolerated the MRI process so well. Sounds like quite a day!

Hope the recommended treatments are effective for Jack so he can avoid surgery or other invasive procedure.:(
 You already know where I stand on Holistic Medicine so I'm keeping my mouth shut about that! I figure you have enough to deal with already! LOL!

Let the healing begin!!!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Ricki, I was waiting for you to chime in! LOL

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Karen,

I am so glad this part is over and you have a diagnosis. I am glad that the diagnosis, while serious, isn't something even more so!  I can't wait to hear the adventures of Karen and Jack at the holistic vet.  I really would like to find one in my area.  If your experiences are positive, I just might be willing to travel to find one for Gordie.

Jack,

Ned, Clancy and Gordie say, "Peace and Love, Dude Dood! Just mellow out."