Small dogs and those with long backs and short legs, like Dachshunds, are more likely to develop intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a degenerative condition of the spine. IVDD frequently results in severe pain, restricted range of motion, and even paralysis in some cases. All of these conditions reduce the dogs quality of life. While surgery is an option, some pet owners prefer to forgo having their dog undergo surgery. Many pet owners wonder, “Can my dog live happily with IVDD?” as a result of this.
1. Maintain a Healthy Diet – It goes without saying that a healthy dog has a higher quality of life. Unfortunately, a dog’s life expectancy decreases and a number of health problems, including diabetes and heart problems, are more likely to occur without a healthy diet and regular exercise.
What is IVDD surgery’s success rate?
IVDD symptoms are rated on a scale of 1 to 5 for severity. 90% of the time, a patient who undergoes surgery should expect a full recovery, ranging from 1-4 on the scale. When treating grade 5 cases of IVDD in dogs, this number falls to 50% or 60%, and even then, it assumes that surgery was performed within 24 hours of the onset of grade 5 symptoms. The number also falls further when surgery is carried out more than 24 hours after the onset of grade 5 symptoms. While noninvasive treatments are preferred for canines with a good outlook, it’s crucial not to wait too long to schedule surgery if it’s the best course of action for your pet. A recommendation for surgery will be made by your veterinarian based on the circumstances of each individual patient.
The bone covering the spinal cord and the disc material compressing the spinal cord are removed during surgery on patients. Thereafter, there will be several days spent in the hospital, pain management, physical therapy, and perhaps bladder management. After the pet is released from the vet, owners must continue physical therapy and adhere to exercise restrictions for a predetermined period of time.
How much does IVDD surgery cost?
The price of an IVDD operation can range from $1500 to $4000, and that does not include the price of the imaging tests that will be needed to properly prepare for the procedure, such as x-rays. The total cost of surgical treatment for IVDD can fall anywhere between $3,000 and $8,000 per procedure. It might be a good idea to keep a savings account or buy pet care insurance if you have a dog breed that is particularly prone to IVDD in case they ever require surgery. In order to ensure that your dog companion lives a long and fulfilling life, it is best to ensure that you are prepared for the financial burden that IVDD can present.
What are symptoms of intervertebral disc disease?
Depending on the type of IVDD your dog has, the symptoms will change. Signs can include:
The most severe cases, which can involve lost bladder function, the inability to feel pain, and/or paralysis, are particularly difficult for owners to observe.
FAQ
How can I help my dog with IVDD pain?
Many dog owners are unsure whether their dog will recover from IVDD without surgery. Your veterinarian may use strict crate rest for 4 to 6 weeks in conjunction with steroid and anti-inflammatory medications (to help reduce pain and swelling) if your dog is diagnosed with a mild to moderate IVDD injury early on.
How long does pain last with Ivdd?
Any indication of a dog’s back pain should typically disappear after a few days of treatment and rest. But for the ruptured disc to fully recover, four weeks of complete rest and reduced activity are required. After the initial four weeks, the veterinarian will evaluate your dog’s development once more.
Can a dog live with Ivdd?
The stage of the disease affects the IVDD survival rate and how long a dog will live. Stage I patients have a medical treatment survival rate of between 70 and 100 percent and a surgical survival rate of 95 percent. The survival rate for Stage II is between 55 and 100% with medical intervention, and it is 95% with surgical intervention.
Are dogs that are paralyzed from Ivdd in pain?
Stage IV: A dog will reach this stage where they are completely paralyzed and unable to move their legs. However, they will continue to be able to feel deep toe pinching or pain in their limbs.