8yr Rot hind end function

Question
I have an 8yr old rot that quit using her hind end a month ago. My vet took x-rays and said she had severe arthritis on her spine. He gave her some meds, and we have been working her back legs every day, but she still will not stand up on her own. Any suggestions?? She is alert and still loves her food. She has been dragging her self were she wants to go. She does not seam to be in any pain. Please help!!!

Answer
Oh, Robert! How sad for your girl!! In addition to the medications, you may want to consider adding fish oil and vitamin E to her diet. Fish oil, which works in conjunction with vitamin E, has anti-inflammatory properties that may help with the arthritis. It has so many other benefits that, even if it doesn't help with the arthritis, it's a good thing to be supplementing her with anyway.

I've never heard of a dog that just completely stopped using her back legs due to arthritis. Most dogs will continue to >>try<< even if they are hurting. I wonder if there might not be something else going on, like a pinched nerve or something, that has rendered her back end immobile. I'd suggest getting a 2nd, and maybe even a 3rd opinion from other vets.

If she does not regain the use of her back end, you may have to consider either putting her down, or buying her a 'wheelchair' to support her rear. She cannot continue to just drag herself along, because she will develop sores and open wounds where her limbs are constantly in contact with the ground.