Love my Cavaliers
Well-known member
I know Karlin posted a new thread linking to SM blogs. I did not write a blog when Riley underwent decompression surgery, but just thought I'd let everyone on the board know about her progress. I'm doing this because I thought it might be helpful for others who are contemplating surgery for their SM dog. Riley had decomression surgery with a titanium mesh implant exactly two years ago when she was 6 years old for advanced and severe SM, complicated by a large cerebellar cyst. Surgery was difficult for her immediately as she has problems with anesthesia related to her vestibular problems. However, she recovered well and after about 6 months of dosage and medication changes, she is like a new dog. She will never be normal as her vestibular system was too damaged by the SM. However, she runs, she chases animals in the yard, she loves walks, and is a happy girl. She loves to snuggle with our other dogs (particularly her half-sister Madison), but doesn't play with them anymore. She is a poor jumper, but uses doggie stairs really well. There are times when she appears uncomfortable, but for the most part, she seems to love life. While we were trying to figure out the right combination and dosage of mediciations, I questioned whether surgery had been the right choice to make for her. However, once she started on prednisone (5 mg/day), the change in her was apparent immediately. I had my sweet Riley back!! We had tried her on prednisone before surgery, in addition to gabapentin, but they had no effect on her symptoms. Because the prednisone now works, I know that surgery was the right option for her.
I understand that even if surgery is recommended, it may not be an option for many people for so many different reasons. And no one can tell you what is the right decision for you and your dog. That is very personal and is related to many factors. However, if surgery has been recommended for your dog and you are on the fence, I wanted to share Riley's success story with her surgery. I know that some dogs who undergo surgery are not as fortunate as Riley. We are one of the lucky ones and I am thankful every day for that.
I understand that even if surgery is recommended, it may not be an option for many people for so many different reasons. And no one can tell you what is the right decision for you and your dog. That is very personal and is related to many factors. However, if surgery has been recommended for your dog and you are on the fence, I wanted to share Riley's success story with her surgery. I know that some dogs who undergo surgery are not as fortunate as Riley. We are one of the lucky ones and I am thankful every day for that.