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!

 

 

[Diana Erhart]

So glad to hear that JD did well with his MRI.  I will be interested to follow your adventures into the land of holistic medicine for JD.  Hopefully JD will get some relief.  And best wishes for a good result on the aspiration.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Diana.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Andrea.

The pain pill/stomach ulcer thing is exactly what we need to avoid like the plague, because of the IBD.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

LOL, I know!

[AndySharon BoomerShaynaMariner]

JD - you handled yourself well through this MRI thing.  Now your Mom knows whats going on and knowing her will do everything possible to make sure that you feel better.  Yes - another set of doctors but don't worry they use "holistic" stuff like massage (maybe mom will get one too - sounds like fun), maybe they will let you play in water (water therapy).  For now you probably should just relax with mom.

Karen - Glad to know that JD's problem is something that can be dealt with.  I do agree conservative approach. I know before long you will know more about spine problems than anyone else. 

 

Hugs to both you and JD.

 

 

 

 

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Andy. I already knew more than I wanted to about human spine problems, as the XDH had 15 back surgeries, 5 discs removed, and three spinal fusions. I'm hoping JD's experiences will be much more pleasant.

[Laurie, Wally & Charlotte]

Hi Karen,

My Wally has been going to a chiropractor once every month for about five years -- with great success.  Wally knows the routine already: First, Marty (the doctor) greets Wally and they say their happy-to-see-you hellos. Wally is always pleased to be there.  Then, he stands and faces the doctor - Wally's nose to Marty's thighs. Wally remains perfectly still while he is adjusted (He seems entirely comfortable during the procedure.). Afterwards, Wally looks up and into the doctor's eyes, just to confirm that he's free to move about.  He always seems to know when he can move again, but checks with Marty first.  Then his tail starts wagging and he romps around the room.  It's really fascinating to see.  Finally, we head over to the reception desk to check out, and Wally sits for more greetings from the staff and enjoys his handful of treats!  

Of course, Wally sees the chiropractor for a different reason than Jackdoodle will, but the results have been very good.  We also give him Dausequin every day and fish oil with his meals.  

For us, the conservative approach has been successful, and our fingers and paws are crossed that it will continue to work.

Good luck to you and Jackdoodle.

Laurie 

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Laurie, it's very helpful to hear about Wally's treatments, I hope JD will have an equally good response.

[Phoebe's Mom]

I am praying for you both!  Thinking lots of positive thoughts as well!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thank you!

[Gail and Bailey]

Hi Karen and JD,

Glad to hear that the MRI is over with and everything went well!  It is wonderful that there are conservative treatments in JD's future!  The spa looks great...I am sure JD will enjoy it!  I had some issues with my neck/spine last winter and I found relief through CranioSacral Therapy.  I know there are some therapists who do CST on animals but they may be hard to find.  Big gentle hugs for JD and wishes for a relaxing weekend for you!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, Gail.