My Sweet Indie, advanced DM

[ncgsdmom]

My sweet Indie is not doing well, and I know that I am going to have to make a decision that I don't want to make. Indie is somewhere between 13-14 years old...I found her back in the summer of 97, and she was at that point somewhere between 9mo-1yr according to the vet. She has had arthritis for several years, and has been kind of stiff, but got around well. It was only about 7 months ago that we figured out it was DM. The key indicators were the "knuckling" under with the rear paws, and the fact that when she loses her balance and falls, she would not cry out in pain. She has been managing fairly well for several months, very unstable but still able to get around. Unfortunately, she has really deteriorated over the past couple of weeks, especially over the past 2 days. I have cried several times over the past few days, for although I knew that "this" was coming, I am still not ready for it. Indie absolutely hates to be picked up, always has. She panics and starts screaching. I believe it stems from abuse she suffered from her original owner, as she had a lot of trust issues when I first found her. I have been able to use a towel as a sling for the past couple of days. She is not thrilled about it, but I think she realizes that I am only trying to help her.

Today was especially bad. I had to use the towel to help her up every time. She can only walk for about 10 feet or so before collapsing into a sit. Seems like the right rear leg has lost all control. I am going to call my new vet and try to get her in to be seen tomorrow. I may be grasping at straws, but maybe she can give her a shot or try accupunture or something. It is just so hard, as Indie is still alert and cognative. She does sleep a lot, but she seems generally content except for the lack of mobility.

It was a beautiful afternoon today, so she was happy to lay out in the grass and enjoy the breeze and the smells. I sat with her for a good while, petting her and telling her what a good girl she is. We kind of had our little quiet time.

Indie has always been such a good dog, and very tolerant. She has remained the alpha to this day, almost like the Queen. All the other resident dogs and fosters have always deferred to her. They may occasionally fuss amongst themselves, but nobody has even dared to challenge Indie. Even when she comes hobbling down the hallway, they respectfully get out of her way.

Please keep Indie in your prayers.

Here are a few pictures of my girl from this afternoon.

[Zisso]

I know how heart wrenching this is must be for you and I am sorry. Facing the reality that our seniors are struggling is so very difficult.

My previous girl had severe HD and severe arthritis at age 10, yet she was still very alert and cognitive like Indy. I was faced with the decision to either continue like we were or to let her go to Rainbow Bridge. It was the HARDEST decision of my life!

[LisaT]

I'm so sorry your regal girl has reached this point. That second picture shows really captures the beauty of the senior dog

[AngelJ]

Sounds like a very special girl you have there. It's good that you got to enjoy some quiet time with her today. We'll be saying a prayer for her and sending you positive thoughts.

My Bailey will be 13 in December and is starting to have some problems getting around. She needs a little help on stairs now and she kind of trips sometimes. She had elbow surgery as a pup and has an old knee injury. I think both of those are know catching up with her. So many of the things you said about Indie sound like Bailey....cognative and alert, enjoying the outside time, very much the alpha dog. I just am always hoping her legs keep going for her.

Anyhow, I can kind of relate to how you are feeling. I am wishing you the best. I'll be keeping both you and your beautiful Indie in my thoughts and hoping all goes well for you.

[shilohsmom]

My thoughts and prayers remain with you both. She has such a beautiful face...I can tell she was really enjoying her time today outside with you.

My heart hurts just knowing how hard this must be for you. I've read many times that they will let you know when they've had enough...a look they will give you...and that is when you must take the pain away from them and give it to yourself.

She looks wonderful. I can see where this would be the hardest decision ever. Again, you both remain in my thoughts and prayers. Call me anytime you need to.

Hugs, and more hugs,

[codmaster]

Very beautiful old girl!

We too had a GSD with DM and eventually had to also make the terrible decision! The only way to do it is to remind yourself that you are actually doing it for her. Her quality of life was almost zero at the end.

She actually could not walk across the vets floor and I ended up carrying her into the treatment room. Then she licked my hand as I held her as she lay on the table!

One of the toughest things that I have ever done!

[djpohn]

Sorry about your girl! How about a cart? Many dogs do really well with these. Often if you get them in a cart before they completely loose their hind end function it can sometimes help stablize the area and they actually can regain some function.

We had a corgi who used a cart for a year before he decided it was time and stopped eating. But up until that day he was really happy, active and would run you over with his cart if you were in his way.

Good luck, I am sure you will make the right decision when it is time.

[Riley's Mom]

She's beautiful This is a very hard time and my heart goes out to you. The cart sounds like a great idea!

[Kayos and Havoc]

Oh I am so sorry!!! DM is a horrid disease.

[katieliz]

what an absolutely beautiful girl. if she would adjust to a cart that would be wonderful. it's so hard to let them go. many blessings, take good care.