Urgent help for Ryder’s quality of life

Hello all,

It is with a heavy heart that I write this, but I hope with your help I am able to get Ryder the care he so desperately needs.

About 3 weeks ago, I came home from running errands and Ryder was screaming in pain. I immediately rushed him to the vet, and from there they diagnosed him with IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease). They gave him a pain shot, sent me home with meds, and ordered strict crate rest. Two days later, upon just laying in his crate, he screamed out in pain again. I rushed him back to the vet, and they sedated him to perform an X-ray where they found intervertebral disc at C2-3 and disc disease at the thoracolumbar junction. I was then sent home with heavier medication, continued strict crate rest for 8 weeks, and highly advised to see a neurologist. Three weeks in, Ryder still has random moments where he screams out in pain. I have made an appointment with a neurologist at VCA West LA on Saturday 3/22. Depending on the diagnosis, it could cost me up to $2700 for an MRI if that route is recommended or if there are other avenues to explore such as acupuncture/red light therapy.

At this time I am currently 6 months pregnant with my first baby. I am doing everything I can to make Ryder comfortable and give him the best care I can. I would appreciate any help you can give. I brought Ryder home almost 5 years ago and he has been my entire life since. I couldn’t imagine a day without him.