My dog Arby is losing feeling in his hind feet and soon it will spread to his legs and back and he will probably not last too much longer, if he does we may have to put him down. I don't know how soon. I know that it is common among German Shepherds (which makes up most of Arby's heritage) and it starts around the age of 5 when the dog begins to feel discomfort in the hips and hind legs due to arthritis and slowly improves with activity. Over time the joints and nerves weaken until they are completely paralyzed and they will have to be put down if it progresses to the point where they cannot walk. (I suggested wheels but the pain he would feel in his lower back would be very very bad and it would be selfish of me to keep him around) Dad said it may take a long time yet before it progresses to the rest of his body, but he is also quite old for a big dog (11/12 years old). I will really miss him because I grew up with that dog and he is really really important to me. I was hoping that if I posted a bulletin people would pray for my family because I am sure that this will be very hard for all of us to cope with because he has been with us for such a very long time. Thank you for reading.
-Skye