Canine Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD)

Canine Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD) is a condition that affects a dog’s intervertebral disks in their spine. These disks are located between each vertebra and act as cushions to absorb shock and give their spine flexibility. When these disks become damaged or degenerate, they can cause pain, paralysis, and even death in some cases. The most common cause of IVDD is genetics, but it can also be caused by trauma or age-related degeneration.

It’s important for pet owners to be aware of the signs and symptoms of IVDD so that they can get prompt veterinary care if their dog is affected. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the severity of symptoms and improve the long-term prognosis for dogs with IVDD.

Symptoms of Canine Intervertebral Disk Disease

  • Pain or discomfort in their neck, back, or legs
  • Weakness or paralysis in their limbs
  • Loss of coordination
  • Loss of bladder and/or bowel control
  • Abnormal gait or posture
  • Difficulty rising from a lying position
  • Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
  • Appetite loss
  • Vocalization when touched or moved

If you think that your dog might have IVDD, it’s important to get veterinary care as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose the condition and recommend a course of treatment that is best for them.

Stages of the Canine Intervertebral Disk Disease

Stage 1

Mild to moderate disk degeneration. Symptoms can include pain, stiffness, and/or difficulty rising from a lying position. Treatment can include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy.

Stage 2

Severe disk degeneration. Symptoms can include limb paralysis, loss of bladder or bowel control, and abnormal gait or posture. Treatment can include surgery, rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy.

Stage 3

Complete disk degeneration. Symptoms can include limb paralysis, loss of bladder or bowel control, and abnormal gait or posture. Treatment can include surgery, rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy.

Treatment for Canine Intervertebral Disk Disease

Treating IVDD depends on the severity of their condition and can range from rest and anti-inflammatory medications to surgery. Surgery is usually the most effective treatment for IVDD, because it can help reduce pressure on their spinal cord and restore mobility. In some cases, dogs will need lifelong medical management in order to maintain their quality of life.

It’s important for pet owners to be aware of the signs and symptoms of IVDD so that they can get prompt veterinary care if their dog is affected. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the severity of their symptoms and improve the long-term prognosis for dogs with IVDD.

Preventing Canine Intervertebral Disk Disease

Prevention is key when it comes to IVDD. Pet owners should be aware of the risk factors for IVDD and take steps to reduce their dog’s chances of developing the condition.

  • Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity can put extra strain on your dog’s spine, increasing the risk of IVDD.
  • Give them regular exercise: Regular exercise can help strengthen your dog’s muscles and keep their spine healthy.
  • Avoid jumping: Jumping can put extra strain on your dog’s spine, and it is best to avoid  it.
  • Use a supportive bed: A supportive bed can help reduce the pressure on your dog’s spine while they sleep.
  • Regular veterinary check-ups: Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help identify any potential problems early on.

By taking these steps, pet owners can help reduce their dog’s risk of developing IVDD and ensure that they remain healthy and active for many years to come.

Additional Information

IVDD is a serious condition that can have a significant impact on your dog’s quality of life. It’s important to get veterinary care as soon as possible if you think that your dog might have IVDD. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the severity of symptoms and improve the long-term prognosis. Pet owners should also take steps to reduce their dog’s risk of developing IVDD, by maintaining a healthy weight, giving their dog regular exercise, avoiding jumping, and using a supportive bed.