Last week, Bevo was diagnosed with a fracture in his scapula, a bone chip, and a cracked rib. To be sure that these were his only problems, I had his x-rays sent to a radiologist for interpretation. After reviewing the x-rays, the radiologist has determined that Bev also has "Wobblers" or cervical vertebrae instabilty.
Because he is still able to get around, isn’t seriously unstable when he walks, or paralyzed, he isn’t a surgical candidate right now. For now, he is wearing a brace on his neck to help try to stabilize the vertebrae, & has restarted a high dose of prednisone. Bev is tolerating the brace like a champ, & even though he is obviously not comfortable in it, he isn’t fighting it.
With this diagnosis, everything around our house is going to have to change. He will never wear a collar again, so that there will be no undue stress placed on his neck. His diet has to change to something that is 22-24% protein. He has to eat all of his meals elevated. “Shakable” toys & games of fetch are things of the past. He shouldn’t climb stairs, jump, or even walk on potentially slick surfaces. The dog park is no longer an option for him, & he won’t be able to wrestle & play with our other dogs without the risk of a flare up, or worse.
I’m in shock to say the least. I was expecting after his shoulder & rib healed, that I would have a "normal" dog again. I have come to realize that Bev will never be completely normal again, & I'm ok with that.
I am looking for alternative ways to control his discomfort. He is having accupuncture done. We are also researching/considering gold ball implants as well.
Can anyone think of something else that we may be missing? Has anyone had any experience, good or bad, with gold ball implants? Firsthand or otherwise.