What is Spinal Cord Disease?
Spinal cord diseases in dogs can be alarming for pet owners, as symptoms often appear suddenly and can impact their pet’s movement or bodily function control. When issues arise within the spinal cord, dogs may experience difficulty walking, loss of coordination or balance, partial or complete paralysis, and/or pain. Since the spinal cord cannot regenerate after injury, conditions affecting it are particularly serious and require prompt evaluation by a veterinarian. Degenerative myelopathy is a general term used to describe diseases affecting a dog’s spinal cord or bone marrow. The spinal cord, protected by the spinal column, extends from the brain to the tail’s base and is essential for transmitting information from the brain to the rest of the body, governing movement, sensation, and functions like urination and defecation.
Symptoms of Spinal Cord Disease in Dogs:
Symptoms can differ based on the specific diagnosis and the disease’s stage. Monitoring the onset and progression of these symptoms is crucial for the veterinarian’s assessment. Common signs of spinal cord disease include:
- Altered gait
- Pain
- Incontinence (urinary or fecal)
- Partial or complete paralysis
- Lameness
- Loss of balance or coordination
Types of Spinal Cord Disease in Dogs:
Here are some common spinal cord diseases to consider once trauma and secondary conditions have been excluded through blood tests and imaging:
- Degenerative Myelopathy is a progressive disease typically observed in older dogs, where the spinal cord’s white matter deteriorates over time, leading to partial or total paralysis.
- Tumor growth in the spinal cord can be benign or malignant; even benign tumors can disrupt spinal function. Symptoms often develop gradually and may not be painful at first.
- Syringomyelia and Hydromyelia are related conditions characterized by an excess of fluid in the spinal cord, more commonly seen in small breed dogs.
Causes of Spinal Cord Disease in Dogs:
The causes of many serious spinal cord diseases remain unclear, but research indicates that genetics and age may contribute.
- Genetics: Some conditions appear to have a genetic component. For instance, Degenerative Myelopathy is often found in medium to large breed dogs, while neuroblastoma, a type of invasive tumor, primarily affects young German Shepherds.
- Age: Many spinal cord diseases are associated with aging. For example, Degenerative Myelopathy is rarely diagnosed in dogs younger than 6 years. Similarly, tumors generally become more prevalent as dogs get older, with some exceptions.
Diagnosis of Spinal Cord Disease in Dogs:
Physical Examination: A veterinarian typically begins with a physical exam to identify any neurological or physical issues. This thorough assessment helps determine the necessary diagnostic tests or imaging.
Blood Work and Urinalysis: Initial blood tests will evaluate the dog’s overall health and may indicate the presence of an infection. A urinalysis will be conducted if there are signs of incontinence.
Imaging: An X-ray is often performed to eliminate the possibility of obvious tumors or structural problems. An MRI is usually recommended, though other imaging methods like a CT scan or myelography may also be suggested for a closer examination of the spinal cord. MRI and CT scans provide detailed views of the spinal cord and are essential diagnostic tools.
Treatment of Spinal Cord Disease in Dogs:
Surgery: Surgical intervention is often the primary treatment for conditions like tumors or Syringomyelia/Hydromyelia. Surgery is considered when the potential benefits outweigh the risks of causing additional spinal cord damage. For tumors, the surgeon will assess the tumor’s size and location before deciding on removal. In cases of Syringomyelia/Hydromyelia, a controversial procedure to relieve some fluid from the spinal cord may be considered in severe situations to alleviate pressure.
Management: For conditions like Degenerative Myelopathy and other progressive diseases, managing symptoms and maintaining the dog’s quality of life may be the only available treatment option.
Recovery of Spinal Cord Disease in Dogs:
Ongoing monitoring of symptoms is crucial. If symptoms worsen, a follow-up appointment should be scheduled. Since treatment options for spinal cord diseases are often limited, it’s essential to manage the disease to ensure the best quality of life for the dog. Dogs should be closely observed for any worsening symptoms related to progressive conditions like Degenerative Myelopathy or an enlarging tumor. Several tools can aid in managing spinal diseases.
Pain Management: Pain relief or anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to address discomfort as needed. Careful observation of symptoms will help determine the most effective dosage over time.
Exercise: Weight management is important to avoid adding pressure on the spine. Mild exercise and physical therapy can help maintain muscle tone in some cases.
Living Space Adjustments: It may be necessary to confine the dog to one floor if navigating stairs becomes difficult or risky. Small steps can assist dogs in getting on couches or beds, or accessing the car more easily. Making these minor adjustments can enhance the dog’s independence and assist owners who may struggle to lift their pets.
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