? Always crate your dog whenever you suspect a back problem. It is always better to be safe then sorry. Crating will help keep the dog from further injury. Crating should be in as small a carrier as possible with only room to turn around. The dog should stay in the crate 24 hours a day and only let out for potty breaks on a lead or another very small confined space.

? Dog MUST be under care of a vet. Don't wait... and if you lack confidence in your vet or seem to be getting nowhere, don't hesitate to ask for a second opinion or better yet a referral to a specialist (neuro or surgeon). It is better to have an unnecessary consultation with a vet neurosurgeon, then to not have one soon enough. Our advice is to get to a specialist if at all possible.

? The first 48-72 hours are critical for decision making. Time is of the essence especially if your dog is totally down with no deep pain sensation. Surgery should be done within 24 hrs. of dog losing deep pain sensation to have a greater chance of success.

? We recommend a variety of supplements and holistic remedies, none of which are "guaranteed" to work....but surgery is not *guaranteed* either. These things have worked for some of our members in the past, and are often worth trying. Check our links page for a list of holistic vets.

? You must be honest and open with your vet about everything you are giving your dog: food AND supplements. This is to avoid any possible side effects caused by interaction of any of those substances. Your vet MUST be made aware of what you are doing, even if it seems insignificant to you.

? If your vet recommends any type of medication, be sure he gives you the known side effects and runs the proper tests before administering the drugs. In particular, you should be careful of the NSAIDS as these can attack the liver and kidneys very rapidly. See the FDA CVM report
http://www.fda.gov/cvm/index/updates/rimadyl2.html

? This is a very good web site on medications, their uses and adverse reactions. http://www.marvistavet.com/html/pharmacy_center.html

? For a list of common drugs and their adverse reactions, click here.

? If you notice any licking or if your dog starts looking at toes or limbs like he's just been stung, get an E collar on ASAP, since it could be the nerves trying to reconnect.   This gives the dog "tingles" and it is possible he may try to chew his limbs or at the spot where it is tingling.  Be sure to call your vet (specialist preferred) and discuss if medication should be given.  This can be a very dangerous and life-threatening situation.