Pet Forum / Miscellaneous / Animal Health / July 2004

Our 7-year old labrador had a FCE last Tuesday while out chasing toys in the
field. We were lucky in that we got him to the Swiss national animal
hospital within a few hours & an X-ray and MRI confirmed the diagnosis. We
were told not to expect much recovery as he was equally affected on both
sides - although hind legs only. However, they started treating him with
steroids as well as hydro & physiotherapy. He started to show some signs of
recovery on Saturday - a bit of resistance in the left leg & today he seems
to have some feeling in both legs. The vet said he was able to support his
own weight for a few seconds, but I didn't see that - I think he was a bit
tired when I saw him, as he had just been seen by a few student vets!

I've seen a lot of articles & postings on the internet over the last few
days. Outcomes seem to vary a lot, but I would appreciate any guidance
anyone can give over whether such a dog is likely to walk unaided and
whether he will get over the urinary & fecal incontinence.

Thanks for any advice.
John