What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?

Certain dogs are prone to degenerative disc disease. Degenerative disc disease occurs when the discs of the spine rupture, which puts pressure on the spinal cord, damaging it. The treatments and prognosis for dogs with degenerative disc disease varies depending upon the severity of the damaged discs. There are five stages to degenerative disc disease, each with different success rates of treatment.

Causes

Genetically, it is most common in certain breeds of dogs that are 3 to 7 years old. It is rare in other animals.

Treatment

Anti-inflammatory drugs are used to reduce inflammation, along with pain relievers and restriction from exercise. Surgery is sometimes used to relieve the pressure of a ruptured disc on the spinal cord.

Stages

Treatment depends on the stage of the disease. The five stages of the disease (though distinct) may overlap, and some dogs will move back and forth between stages for hours or days.

Prognosis

This depends on the the stage of the disease and what is causing the damage. The veterinarian will run tests to determine your dog's condition, and whether medication or surgery is needed.

Warning

Some types of degenerative disc disease can only be determined by a biopsy of the spine. Since euthanasia may be recommended for some dogs in Stage V degenerative disc disease, the biopsy is usually performed during an autopsy.

Resources

• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Canine Degenerative Disc Disease