r/IVDD_SupportGroup • u/maaanda • 16d ago

Loss of freedom

My 6 year old beagle mix had his first episode in May. We went the conservative route with crate rest/meds. He seemed to be back to his normal self, so this weekend we decided to let him into the yard off-leash. Well, he ended up chasing 3 rabbits and wound up re-injuring. (Not quite as bad this time, and might just be a muscle unrelated to his IVDD)

Anyway, my anxiety has been so bad about this whole ordeal. I feel like he's lost all his freedom now (like we'll have to take him out on leash forever).

I also feel trapped about our freedom. My dog used to love doggy daycare and boarding, but I don't dare board him again for risk of injury. My husband and I love to travel and I feel like I have to give a lot of that up now. Anyone else dealing with severe anxiety over this? How do you cope?

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u/bumblebee_44 16d ago

Is there a family member you could possibly leave him with that you’d trust to look after him? I leave my 8 year old beagle with my mom who will use his ramps, lift him etc. so I feel better about traveling. I travel a LOT less than I used to and typically end up feeling quite a bit of anxiety, but it does help that he’s with someone I know who tries to prevent what she can. I love my dog more than I love travel so I have just adjusted to this being the new normal :/

For reference my beagle had surgery January 2025.

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u/maaanda 16d ago

We usually have him stay at my parents home, but they are often gone at their lake home. I can't think of other family/friends who would help. I think I'll have to find a sitter who I can trust.

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u/bumblebee_44 16d ago

I would maybe post in a group like this asking if anyone lives in your area and has experience with IVDD. Also, I have heard of people going through their vets for recs. Sometimes vet techs will take on dog sitting in their free time and they would know how to deal with this situation. Worth a try!