Hi

This evening I took my 9yr old dobermann bitch to the vet.  I've suspected that she maybe in the early stages of CVI (wobblers) as she has become a little unsteady on her feet and if jostled by any of the other dogs can easily be knocked over.  She does'nt seem to be exhibiting any other symptoms except that she has suddenly stopped tearing around the garden and takes steps at a much slower pace.  The vet seems to think that it's more than likely that this is the case and has suggested a referral to a locally based consultant.  He spoke of the possibility of operating on her.  I have to admit that this worries me.  I didn't know that this condition could be cured.  If she was a young dog I would probably not even question it but 9yrs for a dobermann is not young and should I put her through this?  I have had a dog in the past with this condition and it was managed quite successfully with medication for several years and he eventually had to be pts at the age of twelve because he contracted cancer.  Does anyone have any experience or knowledge of dogs having been operated on for CVI and do you think that at her age she should be subjected to what I can only assume would be a very traumatic experience?  I feel that as she seems to be pain free at the moment that it should be left well alone but maybe some of you have positive experiences that would help me to come to a decision. 

many thanks

Ann

No experiences re: Wobblers to share with you I'm afraid. I just thought that if you're worried about putting your girl through an op which may well be major (don't know exactly what it entails I'm afraid) at her age, it might be worth discussing with your vet how big an op it's likely to be/ success rates, and whether medication would be a reasonable alternative. He may not have realised your doubts. You've probably tried this, but if not - it might be worth internet searches on the condition and surgery, there seems to be info on everything out there! I'm sure someone else on this site will have been through similar and be along shortly :)

contact: www.kerioak.dobermann.me.uk

Christine will be able to help you

Thanks,  I will do that.

hi i am a veterinary nurse & used to work for a spinal surgeon.
i hope this of some use, i have assistedwith many wobblers ops on Dobies, nearly all of them on older dogs 6+, one i remeber was 11!
they all recovered well & had good lives after, however it is really up to you.
although she is 9, is she a young active 9 who looks like she has lots more time left, or is she an older dog? how does she cope away from you as she will be at the specialist vets for a while for aftercare & nursing.
my bitch also has wobblers- different breed though & fortunately we have never needed surgery, she has been cage rested & steroids given which gets her through bad periods.
keeping my fingers crossed for you & your girl.
let us know how you go.

Hi Ann.
I had a Wobbler too!  He was around 3 when I had him and lived till 12 without the op.  I would base my decision on whether your dog has pain or not, mine didnt till the end.  he got a bit stiffer, lifting his neck and was on Metacam for about 12mths.  I have a friend who's Dobe had the op at 8 and made a good recovery, I have heard of others that dont.
Dawn.

Yes, I think we have decided to see how things progress, it seems the wisest course as she does'nt seem to be in pain at the moment and I can't see the point of subjecting her to the trauma of an op which could possibly leave her in a worse condition. 

Thank you all for sharing your thoughts experiences and advice, it certainly helps when making a difficult decision.

Ann