An intervertebral disc is a cushion between the individual bones that surround the spinal cord. Each vertebra has a cushion between itself and the next vertebra, which gives us the flexibility we have in our back and helps buffer the load when we run or jump. The disc is made up of 2 parts, a fibrous annulus fibrosus and a gelatinous center called the nucleus pulposus.

What happens in dogs with intervertebral disc disease?

A slipped disc is usually the result of one of two conditions. Either the nucleus pulposus has become hard, does not buffer, and suddenly ruptures under pressure or the annulus fibrsosus slowly hypertrophies and is pushed against the spinal cord. The first condition is much more common and occurs mostly in small dog breeds such as the Dachshund, Pekingese, Shih Tzu, toy or miniature poodle, Cocker spaniel, and Beagle. The second condition is more commonly a slow, progressive problem and has been historically seen more often in large breeds such as the German shepherd.

What are the symptoms of intervertebral disc disease?

The various symptoms depend on where in the spine the disc has ruptured, and how quickly and severely the condition has progressed.

If your dog has neck (cervical) disc disease, symptoms may start as neck pain, holding the neck low, being unable to lift the head fully, or limping on one or both front legs. He may show pain when moving and may cry when he turns a certain way or when you lift him or carry him.

If your dog has symptoms from a slipped disc in his back (TL spine), he may show pain when walking, arch his back, limp on a hind limb, or exhibit hind limb wobbliness (paresis). He may not be able to walk at all and may be dragging his legs (paralysis).

What can I do to help?

If your pet experiences severe symptoms such as wobbliness or inability to walk, he needs to brought to be an emergency clinic immediately. If he has back pain or neck pain only, please see your veterinarian.

How is the condition diagnosed?

Survey radiographs are taken of the area in question. An intervertebral disc can only be visualized, however, on a myelogram or MRI, which are the necessary tools for the surgeon to diagnose the problem and to know where to perform the surgery.

What does surgery do?

Surgery is not necessary in all cases. It depends on the severity of the case and the amount of spinal cord compression. If surgery is indicated, a window in the bony spinal canal is made and the disc material is retrieved.

What is the aftercare like?

Your dog needs to be kept very quiet for 8 weeks. Nerves recover slowly and extra care must be taken not to allow running, jumping, stairs, or keeping on or off furniture. Physical therapy can be started right after surgery to help regain strength and where nerve function is lost.

Can my dog re-injure himself?

Yes, about 30% of all dogs will re-injure their backs, but only between 3-10% will do so severely enough that a second surgery is needed. Please take necessary precautions to avoid predisposing factors such as stairs, obesity, playing Frisbee, and other strenuous activities.