Hind-End Weakness After Missed Thyroid Pills
by Sharon
(Dewey, OK USA)
Reader Question
I have a 6 yr old basset hound that was diagnosis with hypothyroidism a couple of years ago and was doing well on medication. Then back in June of this year we went on vacation for 3 days and the pet sitter forgot to give her thyroid pills and when we came home she was paralyzed in the hind end. A few weeks of cage rest and steroids and she was back walking again. So we didn't make a connection between that and the thyroid condition until in September of this year we went on vacation again and again the pet sitter did not give her the thyroid meds and she again went paralyzed in the hind end...only this time it is worse. She has slowly been gaining back mobility over the last couple of months. And we have been religious since about giving her the thyroid meds. I have mentioned the possible connection I think there is between the two conditions to my vet but he says it is not possible but it is the only thing I think makes sense. Am I wrong or could this be a new symptom of hypothyroidism?
Answer from Our Team
Hypothyroidism can cause nerve and muscle problems, including weakness, but sudden hind-end paralysis is more often caused by a spinal disc problem, especially in Basset Hounds. A few missed doses wouldn't normally drop thyroid levels enough to cause paralysis within days.
The timing may be coincidence, or related to changes while you're away, such as more jumping or excitement when you return. Ask your vet whether a neurologist should evaluate her, and keep her thyroid medication consistent.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
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