small poodle back legs problem.

Question
Hi,
I hope you can help. My mother has a small poodle (she <the dog> is a mixed breed though). Now her back legs are not working as it should.  She doesnt have the strength to jump up on the couch any more and she is crying if you pick her up.  She is struggling with steps as well.  It is sad to think that she might be in pain constantly.  She is mostly spending her time under my bed now as she is afraid that we might hurt her (by picking her up).  What could be the cause of her legs giving in and is it reversable?

Sorry, i know this is a lot... but as i said: it is my mothers dog and we love this animal so any help is welcome.

Answer
Dear Nico,

Thank you for writing to me about your mother's small poodle mix.  I am so sorry to hear about her condition.  Please forgive the delay in responding. I have been overwhelmed with urgent rescue work.

You haven't mentioned the age of the poodle.  If she is a senior, there are concerns that would be different than if she was a younger dog.  For seniors, there are things that can be done for age related joint issues.  Some of them are: Cosequin that you would get from your vet or Syn-flex that you can get on-line.  I also recommend D-Phenylanaline (must be the D form) that you get at the health food store or on line, Glysine, D-Flame, acupuncture and massage as well as warm baths and hydro therapy.

If the dog is showing symptoms of joint pain and she is young, then an injury or medical condition would be involved and she would absolutely have to be seen by a vet.  She may have neurological issues or Lyme Disease which would have to be treated with a dose of Doxycycline.

I am certain that your dog should be seen by a vet to determine the cause of her condition.  It could even be a torn ligament or fracture or tumor in her spine.  There are so many possible causes that I it's impossibe to list all of them.  Only a vet could determine what the exact cause is.

If your vet is unable to discover what the reason is, then please take her to an orthopedic specialist.

I wish you the best of luck in solving this problem so that your mother's precious dog can be comfortable and enjoy life.

Best Regards,
Shelley Davis