Our pekingese needs an urgent operation to allow him to walk again. Oliver started showing signs of a spinal cord injury some months ago and it has now degenerated into him not being able to walk properly. He has been part of our family for 10 years and we do not want to lose him. His movements have become very restricted, and he needs an operation at a veterinary specialist to solve this. According to the vet:

Spinal cord injuries, particularly those stemming from intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), are a significant concern for Pekingese dogs. IVDD is a degenerative condition where spinal discs bulge or rupture, compressing the spinal cord and potentially causing pain, nerve damage, and paralysis. Early signs can include reluctance to jump, neck pain, or difficulty with head movement.
• High Risk:Pekingese, with their short legs and long backs, are predisposed to IVDD.
• Early Onset: In this breed, disc degeneration can begin early in life, potentially leading to herniation and spinal cord compression even in young dogs (1-2 years old).
• Symptoms:IVDD can manifest as neck pain, stiffness, muscle spasms, and varying degrees of paralysis, from mild leg weakness to complete paralysis.
• Diagnosis and Treatment:Veterinary care is essential for diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options include pain management, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgery.
Other Spinal Cord Issues:
• Vertebral Instability:Pekingese can also experience vertebral instability, which may lead to spinal cord injury. This can be identified through dynamic myelography or spinal manipulation, and stabilization surgery may be an option.
• Degenerative Myelopathy (DM):While less common than IVDD in Pekingese, DM is a progressive neurological disease that can affect the spinal cord, causing hind limb weakness and paralysis. There is currently no cure for DM.
Prevention and Management:
• Weight Management:Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce stress on the spine.
• Ramps and Steps:Using ramps or steps to help Pekingese access furniture can minimize jumping, which can exacerbate spinal issues.
• Early Veterinary Care:Any signs of spinal injury or neurological problems should be addressed promptly by a veterinarian.
• Rehabilitation:Physical therapy and other rehabilitation methods can help improve mobility and quality of life for dogs with spinal cord injuries.
PLEASE HELP US TO HELP OLIVER TO HAVE THIS CRUCIAL OPERATION! I AM A SINGLE MOTHER OF TWO BOYS WHO BOTH LOVE OUR DOG DEARLY AND WE URGENTLY NEED TO OBTAIN FUNDS IN ORDER TO AFFORD THIS CRITICAL OPERATION WHICH HAS NOW BECOME AN EMERGENCY. HE IS IN A LOT OF PAIN AND HIS MOVEMENTS ARE PAINFUL TO WATCH.