Hey pet parents! Today we're tackling a big one, especially for our long-bodied friends like Dachshunds and Corgis: Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). This condition can be really scary, but knowledge is power! Let's dive into what IVDD is and what you can do to help your beloved pup.
What is IVDD?
Imagine the spine is a series of bony building blocks (vertebrae). Between each block is a cushion, or an intervertebral disc. These discs act as shock absorbers and allow the spine to be flexible. Each disc has a jelly-like center (nucleus pulposus) and a tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus).
IVDD occurs when these discs break down and bulge or burst (herniate) into the spinal cord space. This puts pressure on the spinal cord, which is like the body's main electrical cable. This pressure can cause pain, nerve damage, and even paralysis.
There are two main types of IVDD:
- •Type I: This is an explosive herniation where the jelly-like center bursts through the outer layer. It usually has a sudden onset and is most common in breeds with long backs and short legs (chondrodystrophic breeds).
- •Type II: This is a slower, more chronic process where the disc hardens over time and bulges out, gradually compressing the spinal cord. It's more common in older, larger breed dogs.
Recognizing the Signs of IVDD
The signs of IVDD can vary widely depending on where the bad disc is and how severely it's compressing the spinal cord.
Mild to Moderate Signs:
- •Back or Neck Pain: This is often the first sign. Your dog might cry out when picked up, be reluctant to move, or stand with a hunched back.
- •Wobbliness (Ataxia): They might look drunk or unsteady on their feet.
- •Weakness: Especially in the hind legs. You might see their legs splaying out.
- •Anxiety or Restlessness: They just can't seem to get comfortable.
Severe Signs (This is an EMERGENCY):
- •Paralysis: Complete inability to move one or more limbs.
- •Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: This is a very serious sign.
- •Inability to Stand: Dragging the hind legs.
- •Loss of Pain Sensation: Your vet will test for this. If a dog can't feel deep pain in their toes, the prognosis is much more guarded.
If you see any of the severe signs, get your dog to a veterinarian or an emergency clinic IMMEDIATELY. Time is critical.
What Causes IVDD?
- •Breed Predisposition: This is the biggest factor. Breeds like Dachshunds, Beagles, French Bulldogs, Corgis, and Basset Hounds are genetically predisposed to the premature degeneration of their discs.
- •Age: Disc degeneration is a natural part of aging, which is why Type II IVDD is seen in older dogs.
- •Trauma: A jump or a bad fall can cause a disc to rupture, but usually, the disc is already weakened.
How Vets Diagnose IVDD
Your vet will perform a neurological exam to assess your dog's reflexes, pain sensation, and where the problem might be in the spine.
While regular X-rays can sometimes show a narrowed disc space or a calcified disc, they can't show the spinal cord itself.
To get a definitive diagnosis and pinpoint the exact location of the herniated disc, more advanced imaging is needed:
- •Myelogram: An older technique where dye is injected around the spinal cord before an X-ray.
- •CT Scan or MRI: These are the gold standards for diagnosing IVDD. They provide a detailed look at the spinal cord and the discs.
Treatment: From Crate Rest to Surgery
Treatment depends entirely on the severity of the symptoms.
For Mild Cases (Pain but can still walk):
- •Strict Crate Rest: This is the cornerstone of conservative treatment. We're talking 4-8 weeks of strict confinement to a crate or small pen, with no running, jumping, or playing. The dog should only come out for very short, leashed potty breaks. This gives the disc time to heal.
- •Medications: Your vet will prescribe anti-inflammatories (like NSAIDs or steroids) and pain medications to keep your dog comfortable.
For Severe Cases (Paralysis):
- •Surgery: For dogs that can't walk or are in extreme pain, surgery is the best option for a good outcome. The goal of surgery is to remove the herniated disc material that is pressing on the spinal cord. This is a delicate procedure performed by a veterinary surgeon or neurologist.
The success rate for surgery is very high (80-95%) if it's performed quickly after the onset of paralysis and the dog still has deep pain sensation.
Life After an IVDD Diagnosis
Recovery from IVDD, whether with conservative management or surgery, takes time and patience.
- •Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation is crucial! This can include exercises, massage, laser therapy, and hydrotherapy (underwater treadmill).
- •Home Modifications: You'll want to use ramps to prevent jumping, use a harness instead of a neck collar, and keep your dog at a lean body weight.
- •For Paralyzed Dogs: Some dogs may not regain the ability to walk. But that's not the end! Many dogs live wonderful, happy lives with the help of a doggy wheelchair. You will also need to learn how to express their bladder manually.
IVDD is a serious condition, but with prompt veterinary care and your dedicated love, many dogs can make a fantastic recovery.
Sources & Further Reading:
- •ACVIM - Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
- 1Dodger's List - A great resource for owners of dogs with IVDD