My
ten-year-old, very healthy, German Shepherd, Kayda,…read morestarted experiencing issues with her hind end about four months ago. It started with her just becoming a bit wobbly while walking. We got her started with treatments immediately. At first, our vet thought it was just age and some ortho issues. Hip dysplasia and arthritis (which she does have as she is ten). We did non-invasive diagnostic testing. We did Librela shots. we did oral NSAIDs and pain medication. We did physical therapy. And while it didn't particularly seem like she was in pain, the strength in her back legs was clearly getting worse over the past few months despite our efforts.
About a week ago, she took a turn for the true worst. What was once weakness in the back legs was now near complete paralysis. She was suffering mentally. She was tired. I thought it was the end and I would have to make the decision that I have been dreading for the last ten-plus years. I have heard that when it is time, you'll know. She will tell you. But she still didn't. She told me she was frustrated. She told me she was tired. But she did not tell me she was ready to be done. So, I listened to her.
This past Monday morning, in a last-ditch effort, I called the MedVet Emergency Department. My incredible experience literally started the second that I made that phone call.
Upon arrival to MedVet, I carried Kayda in, and they let us go back to a room right away instead of sitting in the waiting room once they saw Kayda's condition (and mine). A very nice tech came in, got Kayda's history, and took her back to be evaluated by the neurosurgeon, Dr. Jacob Leslie. Probably the only "negative" thing I would say about this whole experience was that when they took her back, they said they were going to get her vitals and be right back. I work in the medical field, so I do know what "be right back" means, so I was expecting it to take a bit of time. However, she was back there for about forty-five minutes, and I was panicking. Luckily, a woman came in and said they didn't forget about me, and Kayda would be back shortly, which she was. It turns out when they were back there, they did a whole work-up, ultrasound, EKG, etc. It just would have been a little more settling in such a time of uncertainty to know that it was going to be a little while. But she was safe and receiving care.
They brought her back in and with her came the neurosurgeon, Dr. Jacob Leslie. When I say incredible, I truly mean it from the bottom of my heart. He is clearly brilliant, however is able to word and explain things for those of us who are not as familiar with canine neuro issues, how it all works, what to expect, possible other issues, all of it. He was calm. He was respectful. He was empathetic. He was realistic. He possesses every single quality you would hope to have in a doctor, whether it be for yourself, a loved one, or a beloved pet. He explained in depth what the possible issues could be causing her hind lameness, and that an MRI would be necessary to determine the cause. When I say this man explained every single thing that would be done, could be done, could happen, should happen, etc., I mean in DEPTH. Really took his time to make sure we fully understood. Answered our million questions Was beyond patient and understanding.
On Monday, Kayda had her MRI. It showed a ruptured disc and possible infection. He gave us the prognosis of recovery which was great, and recommended surgery. We had full trust in him. I trusted him with her life.
We took Kayda in on Tuesday for her laminectomy. She stayed overnight in the ICU, and we were able to pick her up Wednesday afternoon. They called when she went in for procedures. They called when she was out. They called to update us. The doctor called multiple times. They were beyond accommodating and thoughtful and understood our stress.
I cannot adequately thank the staff at MedVet. The words "grateful" and "thankful" feel like they poorly describe the feeling I have. Indebted. They have saved Kayda's life. They restored her quality of life. They gave her the fighting chance to do what she loves again. Run around and be independent and do whatever she pleases. She is the most resilient, strongest, healthiest girl, and I know she will be a champ about this, just like everything else. The road to recovery will be taxing and frustrating, but Dr. Leslie is confident that she will regain function and it will be worth it.
There is quite literally nothing I wouldn't do for Kayda, and that is exactly how this team made me feel. That they would do anything they possibly could to help her. And I think that was the best part. I knew she was in great hands that truly cared about her.
If anyone needs impeccable care, emergency or not, absolutely highly consider going to MedVet.
Thank you, Dr. Leslie, and the neurosurgery team! You all encompass what it means to be exceptional providers.
