LS (lumbosacral stenosis)

[Remolacha]

I realize this is a “depends” question, depends on the dog, the situation, the treatment, etc. but I am wondering how fast this condition progresses. Is there an average time once the diagnosis is made until it gets too bad? I had thought (hoped) it was a slowly advancing disease, but I am not so sure anymore. Any experiences would be helpful, thanks.

[FiveRoooooers]

Pal had it. We managed it until we couldn't with Depo injections, acupuncture, and a boatload of drugs. I don't remember if he ever received Adequan inj or how long it was between diagnosis and departure when his 14.1 yo body simply wore out but IIRC it was around two+ years.  I struggle to write this but Aiden 1-4 is now dealing with it. Every case is different.

 

[NeylasMom]

I think the best thing you can do to slow progression is to have a PT plan in place to improve/maintain core strength. We progressed from in home PT exercises after Zuri's diagnosis to underwater treadmill and then maintained with exercise, especially on uneven surfaces so hiking for us and walking hills. 

Also, cold laser, massage, acupuncture, and meds - all that good stuff - but it's a vicious cycle if you do less exercise because the dog seems uncomfortable so their muscles get weaker, which makes it harder for the to compensate for the compromised spine.

[Remolacha]

She is getting treatments and meds, the acupuncture and Assisi loop really helped a lot at first, but less so now. I am concerned that soon it will be too hot to walk and 3 months of no walking could really set her back. She just doesn't handle heat well. The chiropractor Conner went to has an underwater treadmill, we might have to try that.

Jan, I am so sorry that Aiden is now dealing with this

[FiveRoooooers]

Thank you. Aiden is doing ok for now.

Can your girl still get in the car? Is there an indoor mall or some stores where you can take her to walk when the weather is too hot to be outside?

[cleptogrey]

Adequan is GREYT! I saw major improvements in felix's life.

[Remolacha]

She was still able to get in the car (Luckily I have a minivan, about a foot off the ground ) in March when we were still going to meet & greets. I think she probably would still be willing, but I am not aware of any indoor places around here that let dogs in. Although, most of the indoor malls are half empty and dying, maybe they would be less picky these days.

[Time4ANap]

Jan, 

Check with Home Depot or Lowe's. (Not sure what's near you there.)  Many of them allow dogs but it is up to the manager what their policy is.  

I'm sure Val would let you take her to PetSmart every day to buy treats and toys. 

Since we are almost to the "burning asphalt" time of year on the parking lots, that's the other obstacle you have to workaround going to those places. 

[Remolacha]

I know the Home Depot nearest me doesn’t allow dogs, although, as I think on it, I see people with their little yappers everywhere, even the grocery store! But I bet if I tried to take my 70 lb black dog in, it would be a different story .  I had forgotten about PetSmart/Petco, that’s an option.