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Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a painful syndrome that occurs when one or more spinal discs separate from the bone of the spine, degenerating and causing pain in the neck or back, that impacts a dog’s leg strength and ability to walk normally. This sudden disc rupture is similar to a slipped disc in a human. Although usually occurring after a fall or small jump, the rupture is caused by chronic disc degeneration.
In more advanced cases, this can lead to a dog’s inability to walk or move. This paralysis may be temporary or permanent.
Breeds like the Dachshund, Corgi, or Basset Hound are at high risk for IVDD due to their long torso and short legs. But even knowing a dog is considered high risk doesn’t prepare Veterinary Health Professionals and owners for the reality of caring for a dog with Intervertebral Disc Disease.
Although the dog’s recovery can be a slow and lengthy process, some incredible tools can help improve their mobility and greatly enhance their quality of life as they heal. You’ll find a range of amazing support options at HandicappedPets Australia including…
A back brace helps to support and stabilize the dog’s spine and helps to alleviate the pressure in areas of injury.
The proper back support can help to limit the movement of the spine, which decreases pain and discomfort by stabilizing the dog’s spinal column. Back braces can be beneficial during recovery and may also be worn as a preventive method before IVDD presents itself. Moreover, they offer the dog the ability to be more active and safely move, jump, and enjoy life.
With or without surgery a dog can experience IVDD flareups more than once. In fact, dachshunds are ten times more likely to experience a recurrence than any other breed. Keeping the dog at a healthy weight, limiting jumping on or off furniture, along with using a back brace to support the spine can help to reduce placing added stress on the spine.
The adjustability of the Walkin’ Pets Wheelchair can take it from a full support wheelchair during initial rehab, to a rear-only wheelchair or vice versa if required. These are perfect to assist with rehabilitation programs and can be used in an underwater treadmill.
They are height and width adjustable which means the patient can use their limbs whilst being fully supported, thus assisting in building and or maintaining muscle tone and joint movement.
If you have any questions or want to know more about how we can help your patients improve their mobility and enjoy a better quality of life, please contact me.
Over a 35-year veterinary nursing career, Gillian Shippen developed a special interest in animal behaviour enrichment and in 2006 began her business Pets Need A Life Too, dedicated to behaviour enrichment. In 2012 after recognising a growing need in the pet industry, she incorporated mobility aids and in 2020, established HandicappedPets Australia. She believes that pets are family and whether disabled, injured and/or elderly, they deserve to live a happy and healthy life. HandicappedPets Australia offers the largest online selection of products to improve animal mobility. Gillian works with veterinary teams and pet owners to help keep pets mobile, safe, healthy, and ready to enjoy life! Be Happy. Be Together. Be Amazed. Be Moving. Be the Next Miracle.
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