My 14 year old border collie, Sidney, woke me up twice last night with painful sounding barks. Both times I found her on the floor (hardwood), laying in her poop. Her hind legs spread to the side. I helped her up, cleaned her up, let her out, etc... Within 15 mins of her last accident, she’s able get up from laying on the hardwood floor, go up steps, and jump on the couch, all unassisted. I’m curious why she couldn’t get up after the accidents, but has no problem using her hind legs moments after. When I found her, the poop was soft, she was not stuck to the floor. She’s also pacing more than usual. She’ll lay down somewhere for a few minutes, get up, walk around, find another spot to lay down, few minutes later she’ll do it again several times. She’ll keep going back to the same spot within a few minutes. Her favorite is on the couch with a soft blanket to curl up on, obviously the most comfortable for her.

She’s in good health for 14, no health problems except typically symptoms of aging. Arthritis, cloudy eyes, bowl and some urinary incontinence, and occasionally needs help climbing stairs. I walk her daily, about 1/4 mile. We let her out frequently and when she asks. She also gets very itchy and dry skin in the fall due to allergies.

She’s been taking Galliprent and Cosoquin for her arthritis for 6 months. For the past 2 months she’s been on Abpoquel (so?) to help with allergies. I also use an OTC topical hot spot spray to help relieve her itch and brush her 3x a week.

She has a healthy appetite (though we do spoil her with the occasional leftover steak, chicken or whatever human food is safe for her). No food change. She’s happy to greet us at door, tail wagging.

She’s had more accidents this past month. Mostly poop, some wet spots. While it’s annoying, I don’t mind mind, because I know she can’t control it.

I know 14 years is a remarkable life span for a border collie. I know that difficult decision to put her down will eventually come, but I don’t think she’s at that point yet.

I’m concerned how she couldn’t get up last night, but seems fine now. Any insight is greatly appreciated.