Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive, incurable neurological disease causing hind limb paralysis that requires compassionate end-of-life planning to maintain quality of life and prevent prolonged suffering.
Degenerative myelopathy presents unique welfare considerations because the disease causes progressive physical disability without pain, maintaining the cognitive engagement and affectionate behaviour that characterise the dog's identity until late stages. Early disease management with physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and mobility aids including drag bags and rear-limb carts can significantly extend the period during which the dog maintains functional independence and quality of life. The welfare complexity arises in late disease when incontinence becomes unmanageable, the dog requires lifting for all movement, decubital ulcers develop despite diligent care, and forelimb involvement begins to impair self-feeding. Quality of life assessment must be honest rather than optimistic — the dog's subjective experience of helplessness, inability to perform normal dog behaviours, and loss of social interactions is difficult to assess but important to consider. Euthanasia decisions should be based on quality of life rather than solely on disease stage; many owners find end-of-life planning conversations with their veterinarian invaluable for anticipating the trajectory and planning ahead.