My 11 year old beagle took some steps today, one week after I found him completely paralyzed in his bed. His pain is well managed and he’s returning back to his normal, happy self. The emergency vet told me that the best option would have been euthanasia since I can’t afford the $15k MRI and surgery, instead I took him home and did some research. He still needs 5 weeks of crate rest which will gradually become more difficult for him, but I’m so glad that he’s starting to feel better. Those first days seeing them not be able to move without yelping in pain is so hard…. But it is possible for them to pull through.

Looking back, I’m pissed at the emergency vet. Both for that and for them suggesting that a night there would have cured him over the course of 12 hrs. It felt like they were just trying to squeeze me for $$$$ and trying to get more w/ suggesting the euthanasia, but maybe I just have too many trust issues. A second opinion at a regular vet only cost $200 and they got him medication, taught me how to express his bladder, and just offered so much more helpful information. Don’t give up!!!