Intervertebral Disc Disease

What is intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)?

The spinal cord is protected by bony vertebrae, which are separated by cushioned discs that function as shock absorbers. Over time, the discs can degenerate, and push into the spinal cord, causing pain, difficulty walking, or paralysis. Certain breeds are predisposed to disc disease early in life. IVDD can occur with a sudden disc rupture, or slow compression of the spinal cord.

What are common IVDD signs in dogs?

Early signs include:

• Difficulty getting comfortable
• Arched or abnormal posture
• Reluctance to jump or use stairs
• Vocalizing when moving or picked up
• Unsteady gait

Intermediate to advanced signs include:

• Drunken gait or crossing rear legs
• Dragging feet or stumbling
• Difficulty getting up or standing
• Complete paralysis
• Urinary or fecal incontinence

How is IVDD managed in dogs?  

IVDD management depends on your dog’s disease stage. More than 80% of dogs with early signs can recover from IVDD with strict cage rest and a combination of anti-inflammatory and pain medications. For dogs with more advanced signs, surgery performed as soon as possible can offer complete recovery for up to 90%. Acupuncture has been shown to control pain, and to significantly enhance the overall long-term success rate. Also, physical therapy is an essential part of recovery. Discussing a personalized management plan with your veterinarian is important for the best outcome for your dog.

What is the prognosis for dogs with IVDD?

IVDD may reoccur in up to 40% of dogs who receive medical management or surgery. Dogs with long-standing neurological signs prior to treatment, or a limited response afterward, have a poorer prognosis.

Management tips for dogs with  IVDD   

At-home needs include:

• Easily accessible food and water, and a crate or pen for cage rest
• Consistency with prescribed medications
• Close monitoring for any signs of recurrence
• Modified surfaces, to increase traction
• Ramps and safety gates
• Physical therapy and supervised walks
• Mobility aids (e.g., a sling, harness, or custom canine wheelchair)
• Doggy diapers, potty pads, and bladder expression, if needed
• Preventing pressure sores, and maintaining clean bedding

For end-of-life care:

• Try to keep your dog safe and comfortable
• Ensure adequate nutrition and hydration
• Monitor for pain or discomfort
• Evaluate your dog’s quality of life with our scoring tool
• Track progression of their health with our calendar

In a crisis situation:

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog can walk, but is progressing to paralysis, suddenly collapses, stops urinating, or vocalizes in pain.

Before your dog‘s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life, beginning end-of-life care discussions is vital. Learn more about pet hospice, in-home euthanasia, and our teleadvice service, or contact a Lap of Love veterinarian in your area, so you can feel fully prepared for this difficult time.