Can't use back legs.

Dr. Marie replied:

I'm sorry to hear that Shadow is having these episodes. I can think of several possibilities for these symptoms, but I won't be able to say for sure what the cause is.

If he has another one, it would be a good idea to look at the color of his gums. They should be dark pink. If they are white or really pale then this can mean that there is internal bleeding. Sometimes, when I see an older dog who has episodes of weakness, it can be caused by a tumor on the spleen. Parts of the tumor can periodically rupture and cause blood loss into the abdomen. This loss of blood causes weakness and often dogs will be weak in their hind end. Then, after a period of time, the body reabsorbs the blood and they act like nothing is wrong.

Another possibility is if this is a heart problem. Some dogs with heart conditions can have episodes of "syncope". A syncopal episode is similar to fainting. It can cause weakness that lasts for a few minutes and then goes away.

A back problem such as IVDD can cause extreme weakness in the hind legs. But, the symptoms usually don't come and go like you described.

Another possibility is if he is having a form of a seizure. It's not common to have seizures affect just the back end, but it is possible.

It would be a really great idea if you could have your vet examine Shadow. If it is at all possible, if you can videotape him when he is having an episode this will really help your vet. The vet will do a good exam and also some bloodwork.

I really hope he is ok!

Dr. Marie.

---

Check out our dog age calculator and cat age calculator.