Surface ripples in a deep and murky pool

After preparing for and beginning our Christmas celebration with "Midnight" Mass on Christmas Eve and serving dinner to family and friends yesterday on Christmas Day, we awoke today with expectations of a lazy day of recovery and minor clean-up.

When my assistance dog, Meka, got up to eat, I noticed and mentioned to my husband, David, that Meka seemed to be limping. He came back to lay at the foot of my bed and later when he attempted to get up, he seemed unable to do so and looked limp and lethargic. We were finally able to coax and cajole him up and got him to walk, though unsteadily. Once walking, he was able to continue, however his gait was not normal and fluid and as soon as he began to slow down, he seemed to want to sit or lie down or lean on who or whatever was close at hand.

I called our vet but upon discussion, we decided to take him for immediate emergency evaluation.


We took him to the recommended and closest center and he's currently undergoing an emergency workup.

I am sad and deeply concerned.

This photo was taken at last night's walk.