fourleg.com

I have an interesting new neuro case and feel a bit out of my depth

confirmed neospora case

complete ataxia, central vestibulair disease
Has atrophy cerebellum
inflammation areas in brain

He is fit 7 y old labrador, is able to stand assisted but complete ataxia
Faecal and urinary continence but does not always make it
His placing reflexes delayed, deep pain present,
Sore lumbar spine but ataxia quite significant so expected consequence
marked masticatory muscle atrophy
he feels very very rigid in atlas occiput area but i assume it is because he is struggling to hold head up.
when touching his nose he start headbobbing
The nystagmus and headtilt has settled
owner doing assisted standing over peanutball already.
So I have given the owenr a lot of proprioceptive work, passive range of motion, some eyemovement exercises,
I have treated the spine and neck with acupuncture. Transferred the dog to a diet rich in anti oxidants/ vitamines rather than kibble
added MCT oil to diet
Herbal support with circulatory support for brain and immune support
I have delayed treadmill work untill he is better to stand.
What time scale should I expect improvements? Has anyone ever had some serious good results with these guys?

any help appreciated.

Hey Vee!

Maybe I'm just a geek, but I'm excited for you with this case! I've seen two in my career! So, firstly, I'd want to ensure that medical management was also being attended to in regards to the neospora. You don't mention what he's on for meds.

Beyond that, then you are doing fabulous! Work on balance, proprioception, active movement and patterning. Anything and everything that the dog can do - watch the Neuro Rehab Videos: Video Training 23 - 26.
Why I think it's exciting is that you get to work on function and not have to worry about a disc or a surgical site (as an area to treat or an area that could get flared up).

If he can stand, get him standing and turning his head for a treat. Do the same in sitting. You likely aren't far away from using the treadmill - super slow (and life vest - if you mean UWT.) Try standing and remove visual (hand over eyes or eye mask). While it might not seem 'sexy', lots of standing balancing with various methods of perturbation, and simple sit to stand exercises... before worrying about movement.

Time frame - neuro is always a guessing game! But the owner should be prepared for the potential for some unresolved issues or ataxia. (It just adds personality.)

Best of luck!

Laurie

I am glad you are excited ! I was petrified when I read his referral notes.

He is on antibiotics potentially for very long time.
No nsaids

UWT will be started in about 2 weeks I think. I think the money pot is running low so we need to do it when he isreally ready rather than giving him a bath. we bill the UWTM separate to a consult.
I will email them some more details on neuro rehab.
I have footage of him pre rehab so lets see how it works and might make a nice case discussion. thanks for the positive vibes.
Veerle