Toy Poodle, Neck or shoulder pain?

Question
Hello,

I have a toy poodle about 8 1/2 yrs old.  Very recently he started yipping whenever another dog would go near him and when being picked up a certain way. I'm taking him to a vet tomorrow, but was wondering if you could tell me if poodles are sometimes prone to pinched nerves.  I can tell he is in pain and is afraid to move quickly or play.  He keeps his head held down somewhat and his tail between his legs.  I feel so sorry for him and want to make sure he gets the best diagnoses.  The poodle I had before this one was given a spinal tap because of a sudden back or movement disorder.  He was sent home and died a few days later.  Needless to say we were devastated and were told by the vet that he had no idea what caused his death.  His spinal fluid showed nothing abnormal.  I'm afraid the vet is going to ask to do the same for this poodle (Lenny)and would appreciate any info you may have on this type of disorder.

Thanks much
Kelly  

Answer
Seeing a beloved pet in pain is horrendous and I do wish I could give you absolutes.   I'm not aware of any predisposition of the breed toward pinched nerves or spinal problems.  I have found that giving a children's aspirin tablet once a day lessens pain like arthritis, but I think your best bet is to do what you are doing - take him to the vet for care.  The saddest part is our 'babies' can't readily tell us when they hurt, so it is often very painful by the time we realize they ARE hurting.  I experienced this last week when I took my dogs to get their teeth cleaned and found out one of them had an abscessed tooth. I can only imagine the pain and I was clueless.

I will keep Lenny in my prayers along with your family. I would have clicked the "This is beyond my expertise" but I hate doing that.  I will leave you with something else I found out several years back when I'd lost a pet - there is a marvelous website with the url:  http://www.petloss.com
It is comforting and uplifting and I recommend it highly.

Bless you, Kelly, and your Lenny. I hope the vet has just the cure for him.

Hugs and positive thoughts,

Kathryn