Dogs

Dog Degenerative Myelopathy Supportive Care

Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive fatal spinal cord disease in dogs. Supportive care including physiotherapy and mobility aids maintains quality of life as long as possible.

Key Facts

DM is most common in German Shepherds, Corgis and Boxers with a genetic mutation increasing risk
The disease progressively destroys myelin causing weakness progressing from hindlimbs to forelimbs
DNA testing identifies dogs at higher risk allowing informed breeding decisions
Regular physiotherapy and hydrotherapy significantly slow functional decline in affected dogs
Wheel carts enable continued mobility and independence for months after hindlimb paralysis

Welfare Considerations

Dogs with DM experience gradual loss of independence that can profoundly affect quality of life. Unlike many neurological diseases, DM is not painful in itself, making welfare assessment complex. Physiotherapy maintains muscle mass and joint health. Mobility aids enable continued participation in social and environmental engagement. Bladder and bowel management become critical welfare concerns as disease progresses.

What You Can Do

Begin physiotherapy and hydrotherapy early in the disease course to maintain muscle mass
Fit a well-sized wheelchair cart when hindlimb weakness prevents independent mobility
Manage bladder and bowel function with regular assisted toileting as needed
Monitor quality of life regularly using validated tools to guide decisions about continuing care
Seek veterinary physiotherapy referral rather than attempting unsupervised exercise programs