Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive neurological disease affecting many dog breeds, causing gradual paralysis. Understanding its welfare implications helps owners and veterinarians provide optimal care throughout disease progression.
DM presents a unique welfare scenario - dogs often maintain good quality of life well into disease progression because pain is not a primary feature. Welfare assessment should focus on the dog's overall engagement with life, ability to perform valued activities, social interactions, and absence of distress. As the disease progresses, welfare considerations shift to management of incontinence, pressure sores from reduced mobility, and the dog's ability to participate in enriching activities. Physical rehabilitation, assistive devices, and attentive nursing care can maintain good welfare through much of the disease course. End-of-life decisions should be guided by honest assessment of the dog's experience rather than the owner's distress at witnessing decline.