Ask a Vet:
I have a 14 year old female boxer who was recently diagnosed with Cushing’s disease and is treated with medication. She has suffered a stroke and is in need of rehab. She’s unable to walk but otherwise is alert, eats, sleeps, and deficates with no problem. She is also very responsive and affectionate to us. What can we do for her? We don’t want to put her down because she can’t walk.

Hello and thank you for your question. Cushing’s disease is very common in older female patients and it can come with it’s complications. However, it is a condition that does require close monitoring due to the potential side effects from the medications and the disease itself. As far as the apparent stroke that she has suffered, this may or may not be related to the Cushing’s disease or the medications. There are other possible causes of this occurrence including a common vestibular(balance) disease that we see in geriatric patients. With rehabilitation it is important to determine if we are dealing with a neurologic condition or if it more likely a musuloskeletal problem. If it is a problem that would lend itself to rehabilitation, we have two highly qualified individuals who could consult and create a detailed plan to get her moving in the right direction. We would be glad to set up an appointment for you to meet with us and and determine the best course of action for you and loved one. Call us at 813 988 1189 and we will help you. Dr Paul Langston.