If the spinal cord condition is not irreversible, nerve function to the legs should gradually return and improve over the coming days and weeks. Once your pet is walking again, it is important that they not be allowed to run or jump for at least 6 weeks. Ideally, jumping from furniture should be permanently discouraged to decrease the chance of recurrence. Short, controlled walks outside to urinate or defecate are allowed. It is best to keep the pet in a crate when you aren’t present to directly supervise your pet’s activity levels.

Make sure that your pet is urinating regularly. If you don’t see a good stream of urine or a good sized puddle, this may mean that he or she is having trouble completely emptying the bladder voluntarily. Catheterization or manual expression of the bladder may be necessary until bladder function recovers. Observe for symptoms of a urinary infection, such as dark, foul-smelling, or bloody urine. Give our office a call if you notice any of these problems.

If your pet is not yet able to stand or walk by the time of discharge from the hospital, then physical therapy should be performed. We recommend the following physical therapy be performed 2-3 times daily:

• Assisted standing (with support) for 3-5 minutes
• Passive range-of-motion exercises for 5 minutes
• Massage leg muscles for 10 to 15 minutes
• Swimming after consulting with the surgeon
• Patients with prolonged or permanent rear limb paralysis may benefit from custommade carts to allow movement

Please schedule an appointment for suture removal 7 to 10 days after surgery. In addition, please schedule a recheck if swelling or discharge is noted from the incision line, if neurologic signs seem worse, if vomiting occurs, or if there is trouble urinating.