What To Do if Your Dog Has Intervertebral Disc Disease?

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVD), also known as Degenerative Disc Disease or a “slipped disc,” is a very dangerous and painful ailment for your dog. If untreated, this issue will cause your dog extreme pain, and even rapidly cause total and irreversible paralysis.



If your dog is showing signs of pain or weakness, contact VCA-VRA today for a physical and neurological exam of your dog today.

Symptoms of Intervertebral Disc Disease

The spinal cord is an extremely sensitive organ, so if your dog is suffering from a degenerating disc, the symptoms will be apparent. Here are some things to look for:

• Crying—especially when the neck is engaged in motion
• Poor appetite
• Muscle spasms
• Lethargy
• Limp front legs

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to have your dog checked out! IVD is especially prevalent in dachshunds and beagles—both dogs with longer spines and weaker legs. Sometimes the symptoms of IVD can appear in these breeds when they’re as young as 2 years old. But on average, IVD won’t be an issue for most types of dogs until they’re more middle aged—between 4 and 8 years old.

How to Treat Intervertebral Disc Disease

IVD can be treated in three ways: rest (for very minor cases), medication, and surgery.

Cage Rest. While this is difficult for your dog, it’s often for the best! In minor cases of IVD, keeping your dog from engaging in physical activity—running, jumping, and playing—can help your dog recover. Please be advised, only do this under direction of your veterinarian. It is important to have your dog’s progress frequently checked.

Medication. With anti-inflammation and analgesic medications, swelling in the spinal cord can be relieved, allowing your dog’s IVD to be treated.

Surgery. Often this is the best way to eliminate any chance that your dog’s IVD will return.

At VCA-VRA we have the experience and the facilities to help your dog recover from IVD. So if you believe your dog is showing the symptoms of this ailment, don’t hesitate to contact VCA-VRA today!

Categories: The Veterinary Patient