Companion Animals

Companion Dog Intervertebral Disc Disease

Management of intervertebral disc disease in dogs, a leading cause of spinal pain and paralysis.

Key Facts

IVDD is most common in dachshunds and other chondrodystrophic breeds
Acute disc herniation causes severe pain and can cause paralysis within hours
Surgical decompression within 24-48 hours of paralysis onset gives best outcomes
Medical management with strict rest is appropriate for mild to moderate cases
Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy support recovery and long-term welfare

Welfare Considerations

IVDD causes acute severe pain and potentially permanent paralysis, requiring rapid veterinary assessment and decision-making to prevent irreversible welfare harm.

What You Can Do

Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if your dog shows signs of back pain or weakness
Know that rapid surgery gives the best outcome for paralysed dogs with IVDD
Invest in physiotherapy and hydrotherapy rehabilitation after IVDD treatment