Thousands of dogs yearly suffer from a devastating problem called intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Chondrodystrophic dogs, such as the Dachshund and the Bassett hound, are much more likely to form IVDD than other dog breeds because of their short legs and long backs. Nevertheless, this disease can manifest in animals of any breed, including feline species.
What is intervertebral disc disease in dogs?
The spinal condition known as intervertebral disc disease is much more common in canines but can additionally influence felines. Spinal surgery from a skilled orthopedic veterinarian in Hoquiam, WA, is the standard treatment for intervertebral disc disease dog cases. A dog’s cartilage center of each intervertebral disc is surrounded by a fibrous ring, offering shock absorption for the spinal column.
You can discover one of these discs between every vertebra in your spine except your first and second. If your dog’s discs are in good shape, it can carry out high-impact activities like running and jumping without experiencing any discomfort.
What causes intervertebral disc disease in dogs?
Because of intervertebral disc disease, your pet’s spine might slowly weaken. Dogs over ten are typically the ones most impacted by the condition. Any dog breed is vulnerable to this disease, but some are more at risk than others. To name a few: Basset Hounds, Dachshunds, Pekingese, Shih Tzus, and Beagles.
The intervertebral discs become too complicated and no longer give appropriate padding between the vertebrae, the most prevalent source of IVDD. The toughening may arise from exposure to long periods of sluggishness or sudden external stimulation. Although there is currently no way to stop the spread of this illness, you can help ensure your pet’s health by offering dog vaccinations.
The Prevalent Signs of Intervertebral Disc Disease
Finding out about intervertebral disc disease is necessary if you own a dog. Sadly, several dog owners don’t learn their companion is at risk for or already struggling with IVDD until it’s too late. Degenerative myelopathy (DM), another debilitating back issue, must not be perplexed with IVDD. Common signs and symptoms of this illness include the following.
1. Sensitivity to Touching
When you touch your dog, it can react by yelping, crying out, or perhaps becoming hostile toward you. They could also attempt to bite you. You could also observe that your dog is avoiding you to prevent having their fur picked on or patted by you.
2. Hunched Back
A hunch in the back is a widespread disc disease symptom in a dog. This hunch can be rather obvious, with many vertebrae standing out of place, or it can be a lot more subtle, with just one or two vertebrae jutting out. Your dog may walk more slowly and hunch over, or its stomach may be tight.
3. Extremely Quiet and Retracted
If your dog is experiencing pain, it might spend extensive periods sleeping or reclining in an unusual location. You may also discover your dog sitting or hiding in a distant part of the house. If you see any of these symptoms, it’s time to bring your dog to a clinic or pet pharmacy in Hoquiam, WA, that provides diagnostic services.
Bottomline
In the future, if you observe any one of the symptoms of intervertebral disc disease in your dog, you will be able to identify them promptly and get the treatment you need without having radical actions like surgery. Finding out about this disease is the first step toward safeguarding your dog’s health and stretching out its life.
