r/disableddogs

Hi there! My name is Lauren, and I’m asking for help for my beautiful dachshund, Scout.
Scout is so much more than a pet — she is my best friend and a very loved member of our family. She is only five years old and has so much more life, love and happiness ahead of her.
Sadly, Scout has suddenly lost the use of both of her back legs due to IVDD. Which is very common in her breed. Watching her struggle to move around has been absolutely heartbreaking, and I would do anything I could to take her pain and suffering away.
Scout needs urgent veterinary treatment and surgery to give her the best possible chance of walking again. Unfortunately, the cost of the surgery and ongoing care is far more than I can afford on my own.
That’s why I’m reaching out and asking for your help.
Any donation, no matter how big or small, will go directly towards Scout’s veterinary treatment, surgery, medication and recovery. Every dollar will bring us one step closer to giving Scout the chance to get back on her feet and enjoy the happy, active life she deserves.
If you’re unable to donate, sharing Scout’s story would mean just as much to us. ❤️
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to read about my beautiful girl. Scout and I are incredibly grateful for any support, kindness and prayers you can give.
https://gofund.me/8a5bf789d

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! ❤️