Wow, you guys... thanks for all the kind words and positive vibes.
There had been no improvement at all after the Solu-Medrol IV at our vet clinic, so we ended up taking her to the University Veterinary Hospital at K-State a couple of hours drive from here.
She has no motor function of her hind legs, but does still possess some sensory perception so there's hope. They're doing surgery as I type this, and they are hopeful for a full recovery based on the acuteness of the injury and the fact that we got her there so soon, but the chance exists that she may never regain the use of her back legs and/or that she'll lose bladder control. I'll tackle that if and when it comes.
I'm not opposed to getting a little cart for her that serves as a "wheelchair", if you will, if she can have a reasonable quality of life. She was dragging herself across the floor to me so I think she'd adapt very well to a cart if it comes to that.
I'm pooped. First the MIL and now this. Sheesh... a girl can't get a break sometimes! Thank you all again for your well-wishes - they meant so much.
Update - 10/11/02 10:00 AM - The surgeon just called and said Nellie came through the surgery very well. She said there was still no deep pain response in the hind end, but that wasn't unusual right after surgery. The next 72 hours are critical in determining the extent of damage to the spinal cord. The doctor said it's possible the cord could start to die in both directions, depending on its damage, which would prove fatal. I always imagined I'd be with her when she died and here I am 2 hours away if it should happen. Now... we wait...
Update - 10/11/02 7:30 PM - I think your thoughts and well wishes are doing some good! I talked to the student intern who said Nellie wasn't showing any signs of spinal degeneration which was a good sign, though she won't be out of the woods entirely in that respect for another 48 hours. She was exhibiting deep pain response this evening, whereas she wasn't this morning so that's encouraging. She's still not moving her legs but she was able to eat this evening. She's on Morphine and resting comfortably. They'll call me again in the morning with another update. Thanks again for all your supportive comments and emails. They've helped more than I can tell you. You're a great bunch of people and the bad part is that you've left me nothing to be cranky about! My image, people, my image!! :)
Update - 10/12/02 10:00 AM - Not a lot of change. She's still got deep pain response which is good, but still not moving her legs. She's not drinking very well so they're going to give her some IV fluids. When she can urinate on her own, she can come home. Still no sign of spine degeneration, which is the biggest fear at this point, so I'm thrilled about that. I'm driving up to Manhattan tomorrow to visit her and maybe that will boost her spirits enough to get her to start drinking.
Posted by Cranky at October 11, 2002 01:53 AMI so hope Nellie has a speedy and positive recovery. The little boogers become very much like our own children don't they. I don't know what I'd do if something happened to my Annie. You are all in my thoughts and I shall dream about a healthy recovery for her tonight.
Posted by: roger on October 11, 2002 01:59 AMHang in there. We have 3 cats and as many kids. (I think the cats are better behaved.) It is difficult to watch as someone we care about goes through a difficult and painful ordeal. No matter the outcome, Nellie will have been fortunate to have shared life with one who loves and cares for her. Your compassion is most inspiring, especially for one so "cranky." Hehehe.
Posted by: bryan on October 11, 2002 02:48 AMHey Tess.
I'm just catching up with your blog after a busy week.
Sorry to hear about Nellie. I can sympathise. As you know, I have a dog, but I also have two cats, one of which is severely diabetic, so needs a lot of medication and vet visits.
Having a competant and attentive vet makes all the difference, so I appreciate your comments about going all the way to K-State.
Wishing you, B and all your flock the very best and kindest thoughts from Miles, Benny, Rutger and myself.
Posted by: Max on October 11, 2002 03:40 AMHope your cat gets better soon.
Posted by: Pam on October 11, 2002 05:25 AMawwwww, poor thing. Hope she pulls through, and you don't get to stressed out and upset.
Posted by: Lynne on October 11, 2002 06:57 AM:( I am sure that she will be fine. If anyone has the strength to get through this, I know you do.
Posted by: Mary Carmen on October 11, 2002 07:00 AMPoor baby! Lots of positive vibes going out to her.
Posted by: revolution9 on October 11, 2002 07:28 AMTess, Seymour says he's sorry he has to be away on a business trip at this difficult time, but please call if you need anything and he'll be home soon, Snugglewams.
Posted by: Zuly on October 11, 2002 07:52 AMTess, I'm sending even more "positive energy" your and Nellie's way.
If it comes down to getting her the wheelchair, I will ask Bob where to get the best one. He researched it thoroughly/obsessively when his old dog, Max, needed one, and found a fantastic source.
I will keep my fingers, toes, eyes, and everything else that's crossable, crossed.
And of course, (((((...
Posted by: Jodi on October 11, 2002 08:33 AMThinking of you. Keep us posted.
Posted by: Suzy on October 11, 2002 08:58 AM(((Tess)))) I hadn't been online too much and just read about Nellie. I truly hope things get better for both of you. Here I am yapping away about my new cat and you're going throug this.
Posted by: Charlene on October 11, 2002 09:58 AMMichael, Psycho Kitty and I all send our best positive vibes Nellie's way.
Posted by: Mad Genius on October 11, 2002 10:22 AMJazz, Ocho, Shawn and I are all rooting for Nellie, too. BIG hugs your way from all of us!!
Posted by: Kelly on October 11, 2002 10:26 AMWe will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers and hope for a complete and speedy recovery.
Posted by: hayneyz on October 11, 2002 11:56 AMI was heartbroken hearing about Nellie; I am sure things will be just fine. My dog went through a hind leg surgery and then got in a better shape than she used to be. So hope same goes for Nellie, my prays are in.
Posted by: Carrie on October 11, 2002 12:41 PMI am sure everything will turn out just fine. Nellie is a fighter!
Posted by: David on October 11, 2002 02:59 PMTess, One thing I have learned is that they are very resilient animals. Our Maggie has terrible hip dysplasia - at the age of 4 - and had a ruptured ACL repaired. She came through with flying colors. And if she didn't I was going to "cart" her too. The little wheel chair things are great!
I do hope she gets through this ok. Lots of prayers your way and Nellie's way!!!!
Mugsy, Maggie and Max all send their doggy love too!
Posted by: amanda on October 11, 2002 03:06 PMDiego and Cali extend their paws in support and sympathy to Nellie, and offer a couple of licks of encouragement to Tess.
Posted by: David on October 11, 2002 03:41 PMThoughts and prayers from both of us your way...
Posted by: dan on October 11, 2002 03:54 PMWe’re only a 9-hour drive away, in case you need anything at all.
Vinnie sends cold-nose kisses to Nellie.
Posted by: jhames and vinnie on October 11, 2002 06:20 PMJust proves that the crankiest of people can have a soft spot in their heart. There just has to be a reason for it to shine through. :)
You are still in my thoughts, and we willingly share our love.
Posted by: roger on October 11, 2002 07:36 PMI was glad to read the positive updates! I'll continue sending all the good vibes I can as Nellie begins her recovery!
Posted by: Jennifer on October 11, 2002 07:46 PMI'm very pleased and praying for further good news tomorrow morning. :-)
Don't worry about your image; I'm sure the world will provide plenty to be cranky about... :-(
When a beloved being who is ill gets better EVEN I cannot stay cranky... ;-)
Posted by: Ĉmilius (Emilio Fischman) on October 11, 2002 10:53 PMCranky schmanky. Hell, if I can do this: ((((......
then you're allowed a lapse in your image, too!
Sending more good thoughts/vibes your way, darlin'! :-*
sounds encouraging, at least, and i have seen enough of the doggies with the carts, they seem like happy little folks, so, it's all good.
positive vibes your way.
Posted by: kd on October 12, 2002 10:06 PMHere's hoping for the best from me and The Hoont!
Posted by: Naladahc on October 12, 2002 10:25 PM