Dog unable to walk

Question
I have a 9 year old Lab Shepherd mix, about 95 lbs.,  who has experienced great health until about two months ago. Riley experienced two mild seizures within the course of 3 days- one after exercise and one without.  We had him put on Phenobarbitol and the seizing stopped.  Some vomiting and diarrhea occured as well, but that was put under control through medication, as well.  Soon after the seizures we noticed trouble with Riley's walking.  He was more lethargic and seemed somewhat weak in the legs.  Blood tests revealed a low thyroid and low liver enzyme (liphase).  We had him put on Thyro-Tabs and changed his food to Eukanuba Senior.  About two weeks ago, his walking deteriorated rapidly and he was unable to stand or walk.  The vet gave him a strong cortisone shot and another shot to kick in over the following days.  It helped- he could walk again within 12 hours.  However, he is still unalbe to stand on his own.  He just lays there.  X-rays showed no significant deterioration of Riley's hips and nothing that stuck out to our vets.  The vet suggested that he may have torn a ligament in his knee (cruciate ligament).  He recieved another cortisone shot 4 days ago and has only gotten worse.  I don't know what to do.  I can't understand a knee injury when he can't get up at all and can hardly walk on either hind leg.  At this point it is all he can do to stand long enough to eliminate outside.  I have noticed him flatten his back feet when outside and stumble frequently.  He is also panting for no apparent reason- this comes and goes.  Please help.  I am desperate.

Answer
Hi Judy,

has the vet tested his phenobarb levels? His medication may be too high.

You may also want to get a second opinion. Your vet should be able to tell you that he has or has not torn his knee. It can be pretty obvious.

Also take into consideration your dog had a few seizures that you are now seeing the effects of. :(  

Don't give up! See if your vet will also RX some pain meds for Riley. Sometimes just the pain (cortisone does not help with pain but with the inflammation) is enough that they simply do not want to move.