In years past you would have noticed my silence. No texts, emails, or calls. After a couple weeks, you would have phoned and said, “Haven’t heard from you for some time. What’s going on? Are you Okay?” You knew your concern for me would have been spot on.
Experience from a twenty-one-year friendship: “No news is not good news” for Kizzie. I tend to withdraw during challenging times. When I could most use support I am least likely to reach out. Hence, the red flag of silence would have alerted you, Edythe, to reach out to me in years past.
One morning while I was out of town and Thom was tending the home and pups, our darling mini dachshund, Josie, awoke with a vacant stare, heavy panting, and both back legs lame. Thom dressed and was waiting with Josie at Woodhaven Vet Clinic when they opened.
After careful examination, the diagnosis was Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD), a common cause of back pain, rear limb paralysis, and inability to walk or feel back legs. Dachshunds are prone to IVDD because of their long backs.
Initially, we thought we needed to let her go as we did not want her to suffer. She was neither eating nor drinking and was not continent. Her empty gaze seemed to indicate our Josie was no longer there. She was thirteen and had had several minor bouts of back pain over the years, but never severe or long lasting. This time was radically different. Yet, our vet reflected how resilient dogs can be and urged us to give Josie a couple weeks to respond to the medical treatment.
Daily, we see signs of improvement. We slowly but surely see our spunky Josie returning. We know there are no guarantees. She is still lame, but continent now, and we see her spark as she barks to protect us from cars that pass the house or if she feels left out.
Edythe, during this heartache, we experienced such an outpouring of kindness. Our vets and technicians were professional and thorough and worked with Josie and us with such compassion. The front desk staff were especially caring as they ushered Thom into an exam room without an appointment and listened as he lamented we might lose her.
Neighbors expressed their sorrow and support as they noticed Josie not walking along with our other two dachshunds, Buster and Lacey.
On Facebook, Dachshund Groups have all chimed in with words of encouragement and comfort. Many members have also experienced IVDD with their own dogs and sent along a link to Dodgerslist, a website of support and good insights for the condition. One dachshund buddy gently coached that Josie wait a bit longer to use the “Walkin’ Wheels.” A dachshund has the best chance for the affected disk nerve endings to heal with complete crate rest for at least eight weeks. | |