Slipped Disc or Bad Back in Dogs
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Dogs
The bones of the spine are called vertebrae. Between the vertebrae are cushions called intervertebral (between two vertebrae) discs. These discs have two parts: the inner part has a soft, jelly-like consistency and acts as a shock absorber, protecting the vertebrae from rubbing together when a dog is moving and jumping; and an outer, firmer part, which helps the disc to hold its shape and protects the vertebrae from touching each other during activity. The discs themselves are held in place by ligaments that connect the vertebrae to each other and prevent the disc from entering the spinal canal, where the spinal cord is found. When a disc is damaged, it is referred to as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). A dog that is affected with IVDD will have parts of the disc bulging out of their normal space and pressing on the spinal cord. Depending on where the damaged disc is, this pressure on the spinal cord can cause weakness or loss of feeling. The back legs, or all four legs may be affected. The most common location for a damaged disc is in the area of the spine where the chest meets the belly (thoracolumbar spine).
- Symptoms and Types
- Causes
- Diagnosis
- Treatment
- Living and Management
- Prevention
