Doxie dragging his front paw.

[redstatebluegirl]

Have any of you had any experience with a dog with what I would call "drop paw", he drags his front paw, top side down so his nails are down to the quick. I'm trying to get into the vet today to see what I can do for him but wondered if any of you had experienced this.

[sinkingfeeling]

1. It's usually a sign of something serious. Degenerative myelopathy is an illness.

Could be an injury to the spine or nerves in the leg as well.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canine_degenerative_myelopathy

[marzipanni]

2. It sounds like a nerve communication problem

perhaps from a pinched nerve in his spine where the nerves that serve that leg emanate
If there is a veterinarian nearby who knows about chiropractic or acupuncture for dogs, those treatments might help.
Or a regular vet might give cortisone or other anti-inflammatory drug.

[redstatebluegirl]

4. Well they gave us some drugs

Anti inflamatory, initial xray did not show damage but they are sending us to OSU's vet college clinic...it doesn't sound good at the moment but they said it could be treatable.

[sinkingfeeling]

6. OSU, like Oklahoma State? I've made dozens of trips to Stillwater and used to know

almost all the vets there.

[redstatebluegirl]

7. Yes, are they good?

[sinkingfeeling]

8. They managed the care of one of my dogs which had 4 separate diseases for about

5 years. My Crissy holds the record there with Ophthalmologist Dr. Gilmour for the most major eye surgeries done in a 24 month period!

The best at diagnosis is Dr. Mary Bowles (she's also a full professor) and I also liked Dr. Jill Brunker.

[redstatebluegirl]

9. Thanks I am waiting to hear my husbands schedule

And then I will call the clinic number the vet gave me. One of our other dogs had orthopedic surgery done in the city by an OSU educated surgeon, he was fabulous!!!! Thanks for making me feel more certain about this.

[OnyxCollie]

3. That sounds like a serious back problem.

I'm guessing "Doxie" is a Dachshund.

Expect a visit to a specialist.

[redstatebluegirl]

5. Yes he is one of three Dauchshunds we have, he is he oldest at 11 yrs.

[shenmue]

10. Poor critter

Hope woofie feels better.

[redstatebluegirl]

11. Thanks shenmue, we will do all we can to help him.

[Auntie Bush]

12. Good luck to both of you. Sending good vibes your way...and to your Vet.