Oh, Corbin...

A post by the momma:

I wasn't sure whether or not to blog about this, as we're still in an early, learning stage.  But, this blog has been the center of so much support and help, I couldn't not write.  So, here it is...

Corbin went to the vet last month for his annual exam and vaccines.  Things went well and we decided to divide his 5 vaccines up into 3 visits to be careful.  Last night was our second visit for two more vaccines.  I had noticed something funky going on with Corbin's left paw and Adam had noticed him holding it up a couple of times, so since we were there, I mentioned it to Dr. Mike.  He had noticed his foot as soon as he walked in and as I mentioned it to him and looked down at his paws, I noticed his right paw was kind of funky too...

Momma, don't get all Debbie Downer on my blog friends please...

Dr. Mike seemed to know right off that bat what was going on with his paws.  Corbin has stopped using the muscles in his feet that keep his toes together and his feet "upright."  He also noticed it slightly in his hind feet as well.  This could be caused by a number of things, but since we've recently increased his prednisone due to uncomfortable mornings, the prednisone could be what's causing this.  We've decided to decrease his dosage again, giving him just 5mgs once a day, but at night so it'll help him through the morning. 

We also did a full "senior" blood panel on him just to make sure other things are functioning correctly.  We're hoping this is something caused by the prednisone and with a decreased amount, he'll begin using those muscles again.  So, please send some positive thoughts his way and pray things turn around.  Otherwise, this is most likely something that will continue and possibly spread at an unknown rate.

Since Corbin's issues began January 2012, we knew with all of the steroids and his heart condition, we weren't going to have him forever.  I told myself realistically, we would be lucky if we got 8 years.  I was okay with that, as long as those 8 years were pain free and meaningful to Corbin.  He's enjoyed days at the lake and football Sundays at Grandpa Jack's with his girls.  Even though both things make him a bit achy for a day, he enjoys them and we let him enjoy himself.  The thought of having less than those 8 years is just a very heavy brick sitting on my chest.  I'm really trying not to get a head of myself and hoping things start looking better... but unfortunately the prednisone is something he needs to be comfortable.  And the side effects are what they are... we'll continue to do everything in Corbin's favor and everything possible to keep him comfortable every day.  Corbin has one of the best vets around.  A vet who knows him well, has such a dedication to his health and well being, pays such close attention to him and most importantly, trusts me. We're very lucky for Dr. Mike. 

Every day with him is a blessing and I'm so very lucky that this dog found his way into my life.