Dog’s neck curving, shoulder slumping and walking sideways

Hi Brad,
Thanks for the pictures (and comparison views) of your Chihuahuas. I am concerned that Lulu may have a congenital condition that involves a malformation of the first two cervical vertebrae in her neck. Diagnosis is done with an x-ray of her neck. Other problems that Chihuahuas are susceptible to include non-closure of the ‘soft’ spot on their skull and hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain).

None of these problems are painful, but they can lead to paralysis or seizures as the brain and spinal cord are compromised. None of these conditions are easily corrected, either with conventional or holistic medicine.

Hopefully, Lulu has something that is NOT that serious, but I would advise that you seek the help of a holistic veterinarian for a tentative diagnosis, and perhaps referral to a neurologist.

In the meantime, DO NOT use a collar on her; use a harness, or just pick her up. DO NOT let anyone handle her roughly, or allow her to jump down from furniture or run up or down stairs. AVOID any stress on the neck. Use a raised dog food bowl to place her food and water in an elevated position so she does not have to bend her neck down to eat or drink.

A holistic veterinarian that is knowledgeable in homeopathy may be your best bet to start. Try AVH.org for homeopathy.

Please keep us posted by coming back to this page and clicking the ‘click here to add your own comments’ link below.

Take care,
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

DISCLAIMER: This educational advice is based on the depth of your question and the picture you submitted. The above should never replace the advice of your local veterinarian, as they have the ability to evaluate your dog in person.

Related Pages:
– Ask a Vet Online Library – Dog Spinal Cord & Central Nervous System Section

Hi Brad! Did you find out what was wrong with your dog? I have exactly the same issue with my dog, but the vets doesent figure out whats wrong with her. I see this post is old, but it doesent hurt to try anyway. Hope you will take the time to answer this.

I did after X- rays MRI and a spinal tap plus a huge bill they came to the conclusion that it was a curverture of the spine and now she is almost 3 and is a very happy girl just a little crooked. If I where to go through it all again I won’t have listen to the 3 vets I saw and paid all that money cause my puppy went through hell she wasn’t in any pain or discomfort except what the vets put her through. They played on my heart strings. I hope everything will be good with your dog and please let me know how things go.

Brad

July 17, 2013

Hi Brad,
Thank you very much for posting the follow-up to your previous question of 2 years ago. Lulu certainly was subjected to quite a bit of excessive diagnostic work-up. My original response suggested only an x-ray.

Although, in hind sight, it is good to know that her condition will not be progressive, nor will she have any sort of pain or paralysis. For future veterinary care, you should consider the help of a holistic veterinarian.

Another resource for vets knowledgeable in homeopathy is AVH.org.

Please keep us posted by coming back to this page and clicking the ‘click here to add your own comments’ link below.

Take care,
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

DISCLAIMER: The above should never replace the advice of your local veterinarian, as they have the ability to evaluate your dog in person.