Surgery - too old?



We have a Great Pyrenees-Husky, 12 years old. Our Veterinarian thinks he has a neurological spine issue. His rear end collapses and he sometimes needs help getting up. Hip is not the issue. Lays down and gets up with difficulty, has lost bowel control. Has limp and is not able to go on a regular walk. Mentally is OK.

My wife and I are concerned that because of his age, surgery might be too much for him to bear. We would be grateful for your insights and experience.

Comments for Surgery - too old?

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Jun 30, 2022
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starstarstarstarstar 		Surgery
by: Donna

I can't tell you what to do, but if it were my dog, I wouldn't do it. I can't imagine surgery will help, and your dog's age is a big consideration.

Here is information for you to consider from Dogs Naturally:

A Natural Approach
Jun 30, 2022
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starstarstarstarstar 		Donna Knows Best
by: Dennis

Donna’s advice is excellent. A few weeks ago our nine year old Pyr tore his Achilles ligament (according to the vet). The vet did not want to operate due to his size and his age. Donna suggested to be patient and he will heal. She was right. He still has a slight limp, but he is not in pain. He has resumed his regular routine of patrolling the farmstead, and barking much of the night. I would listen to Donna. She knows best.
Jul 01, 2022
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you, Dennis.
by: Donna

Dennis, I am just so happy things worked out for your boy.

I feed raw and no longer give my dogs any pharmaceuticals. A healthy immune system is the key. You might be interested in looking up Dr.Will Falconer. He has some great information on dog health.

Dogs Naturally online Magazine also has great information.

Dogs consist of 99% mitochondrial DNA of a wolf. You won't find a wolf that has all the issues that dogs have these days. Dr. Falconer was saying that when, sadly, wolf culls or hunts are done, researchers do autopsies on wolves. They discovered that none of the wolves had cancer.

I hope you don't mind me venting here.

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