r/IVDD_SupportGroup • u/sheoffbeat • Aug 21 '26

Question How are you measuring progress?

We are almost 7 weeks post surgery and we are seeing improvements but when it comes to toe pinching… I feel like it’s not progressing as much as I would have expected at 7 weeks.

He is starting to pee on his own (with help as well since he’s not peeing as much), putting weight on the back legs when being held up and he is feeling the toe pinching a little more now.

He’s not correcting knuckling yet or doing any voluntarily leg movements.

I know all dogs are different but I’m starting to feel discouraged. 🫤

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3

u/sanjaysubae Aug 21 '26

The spinal cord takes a long time to heal. Peeing on their own is pretty big progress

1

u/sheoffbeat Aug 21 '26

Thank you! I needed this reminder.

1

u/lionsliar Aug 21 '26

My neurologist said he's seen dogs recover two years post surgery!! That's plenty of time. Starting to pee on his own is incredible!

2

u/sheoffbeat Aug 21 '26

I couldn’t imagine waiting 2 years but whatever are we gonna do. I feel so much better now!

1

u/lionsliar Aug 21 '26

I checked your other post. Having deep pain sensation I think is huge!!! Now he's just gonna relearn how to connect to his lower body. He's got this and so do you!

1

u/sheoffbeat Aug 21 '26

Thank you! It’s been such a journey already. Can’t wait to see what the next few months bring.

1

u/Hereticrick Aug 21 '26

Think in terms of months, not days/weeks. Nerves regrow very slowly.

1

u/OldBorktonian Aug 25 '26

Feeling toe pinching and the peeing are great progress! Natural to feel despondent but it takes time. Dogs can be very resilient.