top of page
What is IVDD?

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a neurological condition where the discs that cushion the vertebrae in a dog’s spine bulge or burst, pressing on the spinal cord. Often, it is the result of degeneration due to age or trauma (eg. a hard or sudden fall). This can cause mild to severe pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis. It’s most common in breeds like Dachshunds, Corgis, and German Shepherds, but can occur in any dog.

How do I know if my dog has IVDD?

Symptoms depend on both the location and severity of the spinal damage. IVDD in the neck, chest to mid-lower back, and tail area are referred to as Cervical, Thoracolumbar, and Sacral IVDD. Symptoms include:

  • Pain in the neck, chest to mid-lower back, or tail area

  • Difficulty or reluctance to move 

  • Paralysis

  • Wobbliness or weakness while walking/irregularity in gait

  • Loss of bladder control (incontinence)

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a physical with your veterinarian immediately. Dogs with more severe spinal damage may be referred to a neurologist for more detailed imaging

What does the treatment look like?

For dogs with mild cases, treatment is typically limited activity, pain relievers, and muscle relaxants.

​

For dogs with severe cases (paralysis), surgery is required. This surgery involves removal of bone to relieve the pressure buildup in the spine. If your dog requires surgery, schedule immediately, as the longer they go without treatment, the greater the risk of permanent damage. Following surgery, your dog will be placed on crate rest till the area is healed and may require help expressing the bladder.

What does the recovery process look like?

Following surgery, your dog should be placed on crate rest till the area is healed and may require help expressing the bladder. This is especially important, as if your dog continues to move around, they risk damaging the area again. During crate rest, you should continuously bathe your dog as they may get skin infections or pressure sores.

​

Dogs also benefit from wheelchairs and physical therapy (eg. underwater treadmill therapy) following crate rest to ease them back into moving again. A dog wheelchair supports your dog’s back legs, allowing them to walk, play, and explore again. It can restore independence and prevent pressure sores or muscle loss. Project Milo provides free dog wheelchairs to owners who need them, thanks to donations from our supporters.

What is a dog wheelchair? How can I get one?

A dog wheelchair supports your dog’s front and/or hinds legs, allowing them to walk, play, and explore again. It can restore independence and prevent pressure sores or muscle degeneration from crate rest. Project Milo provides free dog wheelchairs to owners who need them, thanks to donations from our supporters. You can fill out our Wheelchair Request Form with details about your dog’s condition, size, and needs. We review requests and match available wheelchairs to applicants. Additionally, other sites such as RUCK9 and Tyson's Love and Hope on Wheels offer wheelchairs as well. 

How can I prevent IVDD in the future?

While you can’t always prevent it, you can lower the risk by:

  • Keeping your dog at a healthy weight

  • Avoiding jumping off furniture

  • Using ramps for stairs or couches

  • Keeping your dog’s muscles strong with regular exercise

bottom of page