Very sad news: Riley, our corgi, has just been diagnosed with Degenerative Myelopathy, similiar to Multiple Scelerosis in humans.

via cvm.missouri.edu

Apparently Welsh corgis are prone to this disease of the spinal cord which eventually leads to paralysis. Early signs are dragging of the hind legs and wobbliness, which we've seen in Riley. After x-rays, exams and an MRI this week, the vets have concluded he has DM. The photo above is from a site which specifically talks about DM in corgis and how the erosion of the nerves in the spine affects the back legs and more.
I've been reading a lot about dietary supplements and medications which help treat DM and will be buying a slew of things like Aminocaproic acid and N-Acetylcysteine which have been effective in slowing the progression of the disease. The vet has also recommended physical therapy involving swimming and other forms of water therapy to keep Riley strong and supple. We'll be getting him started on that soon and I'll keep you posted.
In the meantime, please send good energies to Riley. He's still as perky and as vibrant as ever in attitude.

Posted via web from Kathy's posterous