10 y.o. German Shepherd with Degenerative Myelopathy: our timeline from early symptoms to a wheelchair.
Hey everyone,
I wanted to share our story and hopefully connect with others who are navigating Degenerative Myelopathy with their dogs. Getting this diagnosis for my German Shepherd was a huge shock, and honestly a complete gut punch. Watching my baby slowly lose mobility breaks my heart in ways I can’t even put into words. She actually just hit the big 10 on June 1st...
Our DM journey started in early 2026 when I noticed her hind legs getting a bit wobbly. I didn't think much of it at first since it was winter and our walking trails were icy and covered in deep snow. But in February, the vet confirmed it: DM. Back then, she could still walk totally on her own.
By June, her gait had visibly gotten worse, and by July, I was using a support harness every day. We live on the 3rd floor, so helping her up and down the stairs daily was physically exhausting, and our walks had to become much shorter.
Everything changed in mid-September when we got her a rear wheelchair. At first, she could only do about 15 minutes before getting tired. Today, she walked for a solid 30 minutes at a great pace! I honestly think she loves the freedom it gives her. She even keeps moving her back legs while she’s in the wheelchair, and I’m hoping that helps keep her muscles somewhat active.
Alongside the wheelchair, I do daily massages and give her vitamins and supplements. I know they aren't a magic cure for DM, but they definitely can't hurt, and they help keep her as comfortable as possible.
I’m so grateful she can still get around and enjoy our walks, even if it's with a wheelchair. But I'm scared of what the next month or two might bring... For now, I’m just taking it one day at a time and trying to enjoy every good moment we have together...
If you’re going through this too, how are you and your pup holding up? What routines or setups have worked best for you? I’d love to chat, swap tips, or just offer support to anyone who needs it rn. Feel free to comment below or send me a DM if you'd like to chat! Sending strength to all the senior dogs and their amazing owners! ❤️