Dog with back leg paralysis (yorkie, vet, kennel, euthanize) - Dogs - - City-Data Forum

ilovebdj · 10-03-2011, 10:11 PM

Hi fellow animal lovers,

I volunteer at a local vet's office. One of the techs brought in a dog that was hit by a car a week ago. She has a broken back and the vet says she is inoperable, but not in pain. Her back legs are completely paralyzed and he believes it is a permanent condition.

I already have a full house at home, but I couldn't see this angel staying on the cold concrete floor in a kennel. I brought her home tonight and now that I'm reading on the internet all of the things I'm going to need for her I'm ready to have a breakdown.

I know she needs a dog cart; I have a company that is going to donate one and I just have to pay for shipping. I also read that an orthopedic bed is a must. I've already ordered a harness for her so I can easily get her in and out of the car. Are there other supplies/products that I'll need to help this poor soul be more comfortable?

Thanks for any input you may have....

Ringo1 · 10-04-2011, 08:47 PM

We have a paralyzed dog on another board I frequent (yorkie). Back legs. She has a little cart that they can attach to her to wheel herself around.

Of course, she is very small and probably easier to pick up and carry from one spot to another.

I know they have to 'express' her every so often; and had to find someone to come over during the day to do this while they work.

I'm not sure what all they have; or about the orthopedic bed. She seems very happy though and just runs all over with her cart. I'm so glad they decided not to euthanize her when she became paralyzed. I have loved following her story and seeing how satisfied she is.

Thank you for saving this one.

ilovebdj · 10-09-2011, 01:05 AM

Thank you for your words. I'm really learning a lot about handicapped animals through her. I actually bought a used wheelchair for her. It needs to be modified but I think she'll do fine. She runs like the wind in it!!!

Lilly Bee is about 50 lbs. and very difficult to move around, especially b/c I have a bad shoulder and hand (from a previous dog bite...arrrgh!!!)...but so far she seems to be doing okay.

gizmo980 · 10-09-2011, 01:12 AM

Awwww... bless you for taking her in, and doing what she needs to be comfortable. There's a dog at my local dog park who's paralyzed, and uses one of those carts to get around. He's even larger than Lilly Bee, and it doesn't seem to slow him down at all!! His tail's always wagging, and I've even seen him play (and occasionally get cranky) with the other dogs there. They don't know they're handicapped, and it warms my heart to see people didn't give up on them.