Under arm pain

Abbey often yelps when touched in a specific spot under her front right arm... has anyone else with a SM or CM dog noticed this as well?

Yes, Leo. This seems to be a common sensitive area for a lot of CM/SM dogs.

What is it about that area, do you know Karlin?

Yes we've seen this and have heard it quite commonly - it's often why they don't like being picked up.

Not sure why - only guessing, but could be the nerves to taht area are compressed,?

Yes, Jack does the same thing. We have to be very careful about how we pick him up so that can avoid that spot. He was like that since 10 weeks of age.

The boys dont like that either.

Just an FYI...my Ruby had decompression surgery about 10 weeks ago, and her surgeon, Dr. Marino, told me that with CM/SM dogs it is very important to always pick them up VERY slowly, pull them in close to you, and not to let them dangle in the air at all. It seems to have worked with Ruby, she yelps much less frequently now.

Hope this helps!! :)

Michelle & Ruby:paw:
Massachusetts

Yes, and to keep their weight even and back straight.

Michelle, how is Ruby doing?

Jen, I guess that the hindbrain and motor nerve areas that get pressed upon often have to do with that area -- must be associated with neck or lower brain pressure?

Karlin, Thanks so much for asking. All in all, Ruby's doing ok. We still have good days and bad days, and I'm still not convinced that I did the right thing by going through the decompression surgery. But we are trying to move on, and hopefully in another few weeks Ruby can start to resume somewhat of a "normal" life. The good news is...she wants to chase after the bunnies in the yard again (even though she isn't allowed to do that yet). Unfortunately, the bad news is the scratching (her main symptom pre-surgery) is back, and I think possibly worse than before. We've upped her Gabapentin to 150 mg every 8 hours, however I've seen no improvement. In addition, she's having some stomach issues, so that's been tough as well.

Also Karlin, If I've never told you before, thank you for all you do. You are such a dedicated person, who has helped me (and many others) through an extremely difficult time in my life, by providing information and support.

I hope your dogs are all doing well. :xfngr:

Michelle & Ruby :paw: