GETTING YOUR DOG'S BACK BACK INTO ACTION
"An animal who is in pain, has trouble going up or down stairs and/or
can't jump up on furniture may have a back problem," said
Fortney said most dog
back problems are disk problems. The disk is a shock absorber between the
vertebrae bones. However, when these disks degenerate, they put pressure on the
nerves, creating a "pinched nerve." Or, they can interfere with the
nerve impulses being sent down the spinal cord. Without complete nervous system
support, advanced cases may leave a dog wobbly at first, and later paralyzed in
its hind limbs.
Dogs with short legs
and long bodies are most affected by disk problems. Commonly affected breeds
include dachshunds and basset hounds, among others. Fortney explains early
detection is the key to treating back problems. The best, least risky treatment
is strict rest.
"Unlike humans, we
can't lie dogs on their backs and put them in
traction. But strict rest, with no jumping allowed, is best for the
animal."
In advanced cases, the
veterinarians may decide to do surgery to remove the affected disk. Fortney
explains that back surgery is generally costly in terms of financial bills and
the associated risks that go with it.
The earlier the
procedure is done, the higher its success rate. "It's like spinal cord
injuries in people. Once paralysis sets in, the success rate declines rapidly,
and some veterinarians elect not to take their patients to surgery,"
Fortney explained.
Early detection and
treatment gives most dogs a good prognosis to recover from back problems
without a hitch. Rest, TLC, and even a "dog wheelchair" can help.
Viewers of the television show "Drew Carey" recognize the
contraptions used to keep animals recovering from surgery rolling with a
two-wheeled cart beneath their hind legs. The carts also may be used as a
support for animals with permanent spinal cord damage, who are not good
candidates for surgery.
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