Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Big Sandy has Spondylosis

Jenn told me that my best girlfriend Big Sandy has something called spondylosis. Spondylosis is a very common condition that comes with dogs getting older. Lots of times people don't even know their older dog has it unless they have an x-ray. People get it too. Spondylosis happens over time as the spine becomes deformed from boney growths. Sometimes the growths create fusion of the vertebrae, which is what's happened to Big Sandy. For her it is probably more of a problem because she only has three legs. She's just not as flexible and she gets pain sometimes. So Jenn started to take her for acupuncture and she give her lots of TTouch, which seems to help a lot and she'll give her medications from our vet for pain and inflammation.


Jenn says that I have to play more gently with Big Sandy from now on and give her lots of breaks. People should monitor their puppies when they play with their older dogs. Puppies can be overwhelming for an older dog, especially if they are feeling stiffness or pain from aging and you need to step in and give the older dog a break.

You can learn more about Spondylosis by clicking here.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Dear Royal,
I'm so sorry that Big Sandy is having a rough time. My mom and I think she's such a sweet girl. I'm trying to learn how to play nicely with family members also as since the last time I saw you my big brother Maverick, a 9 year old Maine Coon cat, was diagnosed with diabetes. Sometimes he's too grumpy to play with me much. I'm learning to be nice though especially since my mom gives me a small taste of the treat she gives Maverick after his insulin shots. I know you and Jenn will take good care of Big Sandy.

Your Aussie Friend,
Daisy