Arnhems Next Adventure

We’ve had some difficult news — Arnhem has been diagnosed with a third neurological condition: Degenerative Myelopathy (DM). This diagnosis comes 4 1/2 years after a Lumbosacral Disease diagnosis, and 12 weeks after his successful surgery for Wobblers Syndrome.

For those unfamiliar:

• Wobbler Syndrome affects the neck (cervical spine), compressing the spinal cord and leading to weakness and instability in the limbs.

• Lumbosacral Disease affects the lower spine, where the lumbar vertebrae meet the sacrum, and can cause pain, weakness, and difficulty using the hind legs.

During the 12 week post-op check and in preparation for the upcoming planned treatment of Lumbosacral Disease, our wonderful Neurologist saw significant changes in Arnhem’s movement and reflexes that weren’t consistent with either condition. The neurologist suspected something else was going on — and after further investigations, we received the heartbreaking diagnosis of Degenerative Myelopathy.

DM is a progressive disease of the spinal cord, similar to ALS in humans. It begins with hind limb weakness and unsteadiness, and gradually leads to paralysis. There is no cure — but there is hope in managing it well.

Arnhem is a dog who has always lived to move. From canicross racing through the mud, to mountain hiking, scentwork adventures, and joining John on incredible fundraising challenges, Arnhem’s spirit has always been driven, determined, and full of life.

And that’s how we plan to keep it.

With the help of the amazing team at The Canine Fitness Centre, Arnhem will begin a programme of hydrotherapy and physiotherapy to help him stay strong and mobile. These therapies can make a huge difference to his quality of life and slow down the impact of DM.

We’ll also be supporting him with:

• Targeted exercises at home

• Mobility aids and paw protection

• Supplements for nerve and joint health

• Enrichment and scentwork to keep his mind engaged

• And most importantly, unwavering love and support

He may be facing another mountain — but Arnhem has never backed down from a challenge, and neither will we. He’s strong, smart, determined, and happiest when he’s got a job to do.

That’s why this diagnosis hits so hard — but also why we’re not giving up. Not even close. This diagnosis won’t define Arnhem. He’s still the same adventurous, loving soul — and we’ll be walking beside him every step of the way.