Discover the expert in you.
Discover the expert in you.
According to the veterinary staff at Pet Place.com most spinal cord injuries are due to traumatic and, for the most part, sudden injury. Disease, falls and injuries sustained from being hit by cars or during daily activity can produce spinal cord injuries and abnormalities. Some breeds are predisposed to spinal cord abnormalities. German shepherds, dachshunds, corgis, doberman pinschers and some of the long-backed terrier breeds are among breeds affected by back problems.
Back issues in dogs can be caused by a number of different problems. Dogs may show back pain through a sensitivity to touch, through limping, or simply through lethargy and disinterest. Back problems are common in dogs, and being well-versed in these issues can be helpful in keeping the dog healthy.
Back pain not only strikes man, it strikes man's best friend. Compression of a dog's spinal column results in significant pain and other symptoms, such as being unable to walk, dragging one or both rear legs and an odd curve to the back. Treatment ranges from massages and acupuncture to steroid prescriptions and surgery. X-rays and CT scans or magnetic resonance imaging exams are sometimes used to confirm a diagnosis.
Injury to a dog's spinal cord tends to produce acute and sudden symptoms. Depending on the nature of the injury, the dog's symptoms may be considered mild, moderate or severe and can be progressive. Take your dog to a veterinarian immediately if it is showing signs of a spinal cord injury.
Polyethylene glycol has been used in experiments for the treatment of spinal cord injuries in dogs. It is still in the experimental stages, so there is no FDA approved product for use by veterinarians.
Accidents, disease and genetic defects are the leading causes of spinal cord damage in dogs. Some injuries are treatable, while others are not, resulting in paralysis and in many cases, euthanasia. Speedy treatment is essential to recovery, and adaptive equipment is one alternative to putting a dog down.
Spinal disc disease is common and most often occurs in middle-aged or older dogs. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential to preventing permanent neurological damage. Treatment can be either medical or surgical and in combination with physical therapy. Whichever method is chosen, patience is required to allow the disc to heal properly. Your dog's chances for full recovery are excellent with proper treatment and care.
A paralyzed dog creates unique problems for his owner. Usually a paralyzed dog accepts his situation fairly well but his owner must be well equipped to deal with his special needs. Follow these steps to learn to cope with a paralyzed dog.
