Has anyone had a dog with neck injury similar to whiplash due to rough play?

[foxyraley]

not from a car accident. we have spent 1200 dollars to find nothing, x-rays endoscopy later. she whimpers when she moves her head, if your dog has had this problem, how long did it take to heal and what kind of symptoms did she display?, thanks

[sheloves_dablues]

Last spring (for about 3.5 weeks), my dalmation (10 yrs) suffered terrible neck and joint pain, the cause of which is still a mystery to us and our vet. He was obviously in a great deal of pain - couldn't lift his head, had difficulty laying down and getting comfortable, shaking, whimpering, etc. We did a full set of lab test and x-rays, and the best the vet could come up with was that he was suffering the regular aches and pains that come with aging. Needless to say, we were all very distraught.

We gave him Metacam (anti-inflammatory) and it made him vomit, so the doc prescribed a heavy-duty painkiller for him. IT took the pain away, but also left my poor dog so messed up he could hardly stand up.. But a few days without pain gave him the ability to lay down and sleep comfortably, and I think the ability to rest was what helped him heal whatever was wrong.

My best guess is that he's developing arthritis or some other weakening in his joints. This spring, he's shown some signs of discomfort, but I've learned how to massage his neck and shoulders to relieve some of the discomfort. I have to remind myself that in dog years, he's pushing 80, and a bit of joint stiffness is to be expected.

Good luck finding out what's wrong with your dog. I hope it's nothing too serious.