Although the animal cries out in pain at the initial insult, he is non-painful after that. Since neoplasia is common with older dogs, we recommend taking chest and abdominal radiographs first before proceeding with the myelogram. Solumedrol has been shown to be beneficial if given within 8 hours of the incident, but not really beneficial after that time. Also, other steroids, especially dexamethasone, are not beneficial to the animal and actually damage the GI tract quite a bit. Urinary catheterization will help prevent urine scald as well as an over-full bladder.
Prognosis is usually good.
Patients usually improve within 7-14 days but full recovery may take weeks to months. However, in cases with severe lower motor neuron signs or where deep pain has been lost, prognosis is poor. In a few days she could stand on her own and take a few steps before getting tired. She improved more on her right hind leg than her left. She was soon able to urinate and defecate on her own.