cairn terrier with lethargy

Question
My cairn terrier who is usually very active has become inactive over the past two days, has shivers and is having difficulty climbing or descending stairs.  She still has a good appetite, and doesn't have difficulty walking. She had hives two weeks ago that the vet said was probably due to a flea or spider, and she had infected anal glads two months ago that the vet drained. Could this be a bowel obstruction? She had had runny stools, but she does have regular movements. Please help, she is very precious to me and I am very worried as this is not like her.

Answer
Based on your description, I am concerned that your Cairn may have herniated a disk in her back. Typically, these dogs shiver from pain and are very reluctant to go up and down stairs because it hurts! This is a very common problem in small breed dogs. She does need to be seen by your vet so they can determine where the injured or herniated disk is along her back and dispense medication. They may wish to do spine xrays to help them assess her injury. Herniated disks are best managed with an anti-inflammatory medication such as Rimadyl, Derammax, Metacam or Zubrin, plus or minus a muscle relaxant. Most importantly, the dogs need to be strictly rested. This includes NO climbing stairs, no jumping or running for 2 weeks. Typically, I tell me clients to use a crate when they are not home to monitor their dogs. Some vets use Prednisone instead of an NSAID which is a more potent anti-inflammatory medication but has some side effects.
Herniated disks can become very severe if the disk material actually causes major compression of the spinal cord. In this case it can cause partial or complete paralysis of the limbs and usually requires surgery. I would urge you to have her evaluated soon so you can avoid any worsening of signs.
Dr. G.