this is your poodle on prednisone....
zoom, ZOOM!
Yesterday's vet appointment was much as I expected....
more forms to fill out, more history to relate...
sigh.
All of the options involve NEEDLES. ewwwwwww.
Option Numero Uno is a myelogram, injecting dye into the spinal fluid to *see* whether they
can detect a bulging disc or a pinched nerve. UNfortunately, with his allergies, he could have a fatal reaction to the dye. This is NOT my first choice. Let's file this under last Resort.
Option Numero Dos is Acupuncture. Once he has finished tapering off the prednisone, he'd have regular scheduled appointments with the acupucturist and the massage therapist. They also use aromatherapy in their offices. I wish MY health plan would cover the SPA!
Option Numero Tres is alternating cortisone shots with rounds of prednisone. While this would certainly make him FEEL like his usual zoomy self, the long term liver/kidney/brain issues are...
well, if you follow the sports pages you know all about the horrid side effects.
So, we're going to see another specialist on Wednesday (because we had to see our primary doc and then get a referral....you know the drill...) for another round of opinions.
My intuition is to try the Acupuncture/massage therapy/chiropractic route FIRST and maybe some physical therapy at the doggie pool.
I'm going on a very exotic vacation today....to Sleeve Island!
Drinks with little umbrellas for EVERYONE!
Poor puppy. I know several dogs who have had great success with accupunture. My morning dog group is on the crunchy side, all natural diets, holistic vets, etc. Good luck.
Posted by: Kat | July 19, 2005 at 10:21 AM
If you care, I vote for the 2nd option. Acupuncture, aromatherapy and massage work wonders. You might also want to check out a chiropractor - some specialize or will do animal work.
Posted by: Susan | July 19, 2005 at 10:23 AM
Poor little guy! Lucy sends hugs and purrs.
Posted by: Wendy | July 19, 2005 at 10:40 AM
We have had so many problems with our Murphy and his allergies to everything. No parvo or rabies shots as he went into shock with the first one! The last time they tried to sedate him we nearly lost him. It's so hard when they can't tell you where it hurts!
Posted by: margene | July 19, 2005 at 12:34 PM
Hugs for the poor puppy, AND the worried Mommy! Try Numero Dos first; fewer side effects.
Posted by: Joan in Reno | July 19, 2005 at 01:54 PM
My heart is so with you. I believe I have found some answers for Bunny, I pray you find something to help Carson with the fewest side effects.
Posted by: Bliss | July 19, 2005 at 04:36 PM
Good on you for caring so much.
Posted by: Melinda | July 20, 2005 at 01:20 AM
Hugs to Carson! I'm glad he has such a caring mommy and good veterinary care!
My son has been on prednisone for a week with a wretched case of poison oak. I empathize with the zoom zoom zoom thing!
Posted by: Christine | July 20, 2005 at 12:10 PM
I walk a dog that gets accupuncture regularly. Without it she would not be able to walk. And it really works and she loves being fondled and cared for. That is my vote. :)
Posted by: anj | July 27, 2005 at 01:01 PM