Cockapoo Neurological Dysfunction

This week has been difficult as we are unsure of the prognosis for Lucky. As we had a feast at home on Thanksgiving, we caught Lucky licking then biting at his right leg. Then early this week we witnessed him having an unexplained weakness in his right leg and/or stumbling. 

A few days ago, upon examination, I felt a soft mass along his right hip area. Soon after this, Lucky would be walking along, and it appears his leg would go out on him. Occasionally, we find him standing with his hind legs crossed- not even sure how he does that. He doesn't appear to be in pain when we touch his hind leg or when we massage him but he no longer seeks out food and he doesn't attempt to jump up on things as he once did.

If you recall, our veterinarian left his practice this summer. Most offices we contacted in and around our town told us it would be more than a week to get Lucky in as they are backed up with patients. We didn't want to wait that long if we could avoid it so we contacted an out-of-state full-service animal hospital that has six veterinarians on staff. We were informed  Lucky was scheduled to be examined this morning and to wear our masks due to Covid-19 precautions.

It was bitterly cold when we got up this morning and we were unsure of how well Lucky would travel so we heated up the SUV awhile and packed his favorite blankets and pillow and had the dog travel kit available in case he became ill. 

We headed out early and Lucky did well on the trip. He stretched a few times but other than that he didn't move around much.  We arrived at the hospital, prior to the time we had been told to be there. Lucky stayed in the lobby with us. We filled out the paperwork and looked up to see Lucky was watching a man carry a mixed breed canine in the door. When a lady carried in a  kitten that was very vocal, Lucky's ears perked up 

After completing the form, we were led back to the examining room. The header photo is Lucky and me prior to his exam. The veterinarian entered the room and did a physical exam and tested Lucky's reflexes. We were informed Lucky's heartbeat is strong and the vet did not think the swelling near the hip was causing the weakness. We were told it appears Lucky is suffering from a neurological issue.  

Neurological Dysfunction is new to us. The vet went over the medications available and prescribed 4 for Lucky. He is to rest and have food and water nearby and we were advised to carry him when he needs to go outside. 

Lucky returned home and was happily greeted by his canine brothers.

Lucky received his medications and buried himself in amongst his favorite blankets. 

Just a year ago we were happily filming video of a rambunctious Lucky 

We are considering laser therapy. 

How has your dog's experience been with laser treatments?

Lucky was a brave little dog. He passed in June 2022.