Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive, fatal spinal cord disease in dogs that leads to paralysis over months to years. Proactive welfare management can maintain quality of life throughout the disease course.
Managing DM welfare requires understanding what the dog values and adapting support as the disease progresses. Early-stage dogs benefit most from intensive exercise to slow muscle atrophy and maintain proprioception. Physical rehabilitation with certified canine physiotherapists is highly recommended and can meaningfully extend quality ambulatory time. The transition to a wheelchair is a significant positive welfare intervention — dogs in carts often show renewed enthusiasm and engagement. As the disease progresses to forelimb involvement, quality of life assessments must be performed regularly with veterinary guidance. Euthanasia decisions should be made proactively, before respiratory compromise or loss of all voluntary movement causes significant suffering.