How Do I Know If Something Is Wrong with My Dog’s Spine?

Spinal cord problems in dogs can be an issue of concern. The symptoms are usually acute and can affect the dog’s mobility and ability to control bodily functions. If your dog has a spinal problem, you may notice signs such as loss of balance or coordination and difficulty walking. Symptoms range in severity depending on the condition. Your pet may also experience pain and partial or total paralysis. How do you know if something is wrong with your dog’s spine?
 

Spinal Cord Problems in Dogs

Spinal cord problems can be very severe. They can change your pet’s entire life. A damaged spine cannot regenerate, which makes spinal injuries or diseases serious cause for concern. It is vital to get a professional assessment if your pet appears to be showing signs of discomfort.
 

Degenerative myelopathy is a professional term that describes a disease of the spinal cord or bone marrow. The spinal cord is surrounded by the spinal column, running from the dog’s brain to the tail. The spine conveys vital information from the brain to other body parts.
 

What Causes Spinal Disease in Dogs

The spine helps to control functions, such as sensation, movement, and passing stool and urine. In many cases, the cause of spinal disease is unknown. However, research indicates that age and genetics may be responsible.
 

Neuroblastoma, an invasive spinal tumor, is most common in German Shepherds. Degenerative myelopathy is prevalent in medium and large dog breeds. Age is a common factor in spinal cord diseases. The disorders are more common in senior dogs.
 

Signs of Spinal Issues in Dogs

Symptoms of spinal disease vary depending on the stage. As a pet parent, you should pay attention to the early signs and monitor their progression. Signs of spinal problems include:
 

·      Changes in gait, such as limping or dragging the back legs.

·      Obvious signs of pain.

·      Yelping or vocalization when you try to lift the dog.

·      Fecal or urinary incontinence.

·      Loss of balance or lack of coordination.

·      Odd posture such as a drawn-in head, tucked tail, or arched back.

·      Lameness.

·      Shivering during certain activities or motions.
 

If your dog suddenly shows a lack of interest in eating or favorite activities, it could be due to spinal discomfort.
 

Types of Spine Problems

There are various types of spinal conditions due to injury or disease. Imaging and blood tests can help to determine the underlying issues.
 

·      Spinal dysfunction could be due to a tumor. A spinal cord tumor can be benign or malignant. Even a benign tumor can cause discomfort. Symptoms usually occur gradually with no pain in the early stages.

·      Degenerative myelopathy is a condition usually seen in senior dogs. The progressive condition occurs when the white spinal cord matter degenerates over time. It results in total or partial paralysis.

·      Hydromyelia and Syringomyelia are diseases resulting from excess spinal cord fluid. They typically affect small dog breeds.
 

Diagnosing and Treating Spinal Disorders

Before treating the spinal condition, the vet will need to rule out trauma due to an injury. During diagnosis, the vet will perform a physical exam to check for abnormalities. Diagnosis will also include bloodwork, urinalysis, and imaging tests. After diagnosis, the vet will develop the best treatment. Treatment may involve surgery or management. Several tools can help to manage dog spinal problems.
 

For more on how to know if something is wrong with your dog’s spine, visit Connection Chiropractic at our office in Stratford, Ontario. Call (519) 305-8700 to schedule an appointment today.
 

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