Identification

• Intervertebral disk disease is a degenerative condition that causes the discs between the spinal bones to become weakened, bulge and eventually rupture. This type of disease is more commonly associated with smaller dog breeds, although it may also occur in larger breeds, it is most often diagnosed in the Dachshund breed. The cause of the disease is due to abnormal development of the disc, which leads to early degeneration of the disc structure.
  
  

Symptoms

• Symptoms of intervertebral disk disease usually begin with a change in the dog's gait or walk. Pet owners may notice a slight limp, wobble or lack of coordination in addition to pain along the neck, back and leg areas. As the disease progresses, the dog's back legs may cross on their own when the dog tries to walk, sit or lay down; the dog may lose the ability to use the back legs, the hind end may sway when the dog stands and eventually the ability to jump or walk may be lost entirely. In cases when the spinal cord has been severely damaged, the dog will lose all feeling in the back legs and hind quarters of the body; a swollen abdomen and frequent bladder infections will occur as well due to loss of bowel control.
  
  

Time Frame

• In small dog breeds, intervertebral disk disease symptoms usually occur between one to two years of age, although damage to the dog's discs can occur as early as a few months of age. Large dog breeds that become afflicted with this disease do not generally develop symptoms until they are older than five years of age.
  
  

Treatment

• Canine intervertebral disk disease must be treated, or the discs will continue to degrade and the dog will eventually become paralyzed. Treatment usually begins with prednisone steroid medication to reduce inflammation and pain, along with an anti-inflammatory and pain medication. Dogs must be confined to cage rest until their symptoms improve. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove bone and tissue material that is pressing on the spinal cord. Some dogs also benefit from physical therapy treatments such as massage and water therapy in addition to alternative treatments that include acupuncture and herbal supplements.
  
  

Prognosis

• The prognosis of canine intervertebral disk disease depends on how much damage has occurred to the spinal cord. Dogs with mild symptoms generally respond well to anti-inflammatory medication and rest and may continue to lead a long and healthy life with minimal restrictions. Dogs with severe spinal cord treatment often experience difficulties with pain and paralysis and may need lifelong specialized care, pain control and exercise restrictions.