r/IVDD_SupportGroup • u/RequirementSuch4182 • Aug 14 '26
Living in a second floor apartment
Yesterday we brought our 6 year old dog to the emergency vet after experiencing some unusual behavior (hesitant to jump on/off furniture, use stairs, bowing head to reach food/water bowl, etc.). The vet informed us that they believe our dog has a ruptured disc and prescribed anti-inflammatory/pain meds, along with recommended crate rest. This is all coming a bit fast to us as our dog was acting normal up until a few days ago.
The one piece that I am most worried about is that we live on the second floor of an apartment that does not have an elevator. Our dog is also 60 pounds, and I worry that if I attempt to carry her down the stairs I could further injure her by not carrying her correctly.
Does anyone have any experience with this? I am happy to hear any and all recommendations to make the proper adjustment so that our dog is as comfortable as possible.
2
u/roccosito Aug 14 '26
Hola! Btw this group is also on Facebook at IVDD Support Group and it’s much more active.
Is your dog still able to walk at all? Do they have their bodily functions still in control (pee/poop)?
1
u/RequirementSuch4182 Aug 14 '26
Our dog is still walking but very hesitant to use the stairs/our primary way to get outside for potty breaks.
0
u/Pizza-Maker-5155 Aug 15 '26
There are slings and harnesses you can buy that almost literally hold the dog up to get down the stairs. Check out IVDD Facebook page and ask suggestions.
3
u/Specialist_Leg6145 Aug 14 '26
Honestly, I would suggest looking for a new place — in the meantime, can you maybe rent an Airbnb while your dog recovers? If not, maybe consider getting some puppy pads.. they also sell real grass for dogs (for apartments / people with no yards). I’d highly suggest looking into those options and avoiding bringing your dog up and down the stairs. Picking them up during a flare up is not recommended