My dog has a herniated disc. Is that the same as IVDD in dogs?

These diseases affect the joints and spine. The best thing to do for him is to keep him active and fit. Overweight dogs can be more at risk for joint problems. Unfortunately, you cannot prevent IVDD but dogs of an ideal weight and fitness level tend to do better than those who are overweight.

Generally speaking, dogs with IVDD who do not have major neurologic deficits (i.e., no paralysis) of the rear legs can often be managed successfully without surgery. The recommended treatment for these dogs usually involves strict cage rest for at least 30 days, along with a steroid or anti-inflammatory medication, pain medication, and sometimes muscle relaxers as well. Laser therapy, chiropractic therapy, and acupuncture can certainly be helpful in some cases as well. If Tigger is still quite painful after 30 days on this treatment plan, or if things get worse or she develops paralysis of her rear legs, these are indications that surgery may be necessary in order to treat the problem effectively.

Some signs include a reluctance to jump, weakness in the rear legs, sudden urinary and/or bowel incontinence, reduced appetite, reduced activity, and muscle spasms down the back. If you see any of those signs, have Oscar seen by a vet right away. Best of luck.

Hello, sorry to hear about Sasha. She does indeed have some changes in her spin consistent with spondylosis deformans. However, another potential cause of her back pain could include a herniated disk also known as Intervertebral Disk Disease. This can be a very painful condition and cause patients to have nerve deficits, back pain, and become unable to walk. Rest and pain medication will help in about 30-40% of the cases of dogs whom are not able to walk. In. dogs who still are able to walk, they may recover with strict rest and medical management. Strict rest should be instituted for at minimum of 4 weeks with no running, jumping, or rough housing to be allowed. If Sasha does not improve, her pain seems worse or if she is unable to walk, then she needs to be evaluated by your veterinarian or even a neurologist. Please contact your veterinarian to have her evaluated. Hope this helps and best of luck.

It sounds like Shaggy may have intervertebral disc disease--iVDD. This could be described as a pinch nerve, in that the disc material located between the back bones pushes up and "pinches" or compresses the spinal cord. So to specifically answer your question--yes, I think this is a reasonable working diagnosis (meaning treat and note response). Dogs often, especially when they start to feel better, are wanting to play and move around and overall act quite well. If he is still on the medications, contact your vet to clarify what and when you should give the meds-- generally we don't want to give Rimadyl ( a non steroidal anti-inflammatory ) and prednisone ( a steroid) at the same time, as this can pose a significant risk for a stomach ulcer. Also ask your vet based on Shaggy's progress, how much activity he would recommend be allowed. Thank you for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I am sorry to hear that this happened to Gracie. Yes, unfortunately, dog can go from walking to paralysis is a very short time. Sometimes it happens immediately within seconds. Dachshunds and Dachshund mixes are EXTREMELY susceptible to this issue. If you have not taken her to see a neurologist I suggest you do so. Also, you may want to take her to an acupuncturist as I have seen this work miracles in helping to restore mobility. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

If an emergency vet is an option, I would take Nelson in. Brachycephalic dogs (the short-nosed breeds) are prone to developing intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) which could cause these types of symptoms. The vet will do a thorough physical and neurologic exam, and may recommend x-rays to determine what is going on and to select the best treatment plan.