Therapy for Dachshunds with IVDD
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IVDD can be a scary diagnosis for any Dachshund owner. Don’t lose hope! There are many Successful Therapy Options out there for Dogs with IVDD, with or without surgery. Some treatment methods include Hydrotherapy, Laser Therapy, Acupuncture, Stem Therapy, and Physical Therapy exercises.
Therapy and Rehabilitation services are available by referral from your dog’s vet. These services consist of progressive treatment plans that address strength, range of motion, pain, balance, coordination, quality of mobility, and overall function.
What is IVDD?
Intervertebral disc disease, also known as IVDD or slipped disc disease, is an inherited condition of the spine.
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IVDD is considered a degenerative disk disease. IVDD is caused by progressive degeneration of the intervertebral disks, which are the cushion-like structures that separate each vertebra of the spinal column.
As the disks degenerate, they calcify and lose their shock-absorbing ability. The disks will then become more susceptible to compression damage, even from normal activities. If a forceful movement occurs, these disks can rupture.
The contents of the disks will then go into the spinal canal and place pressure on the spinal cord. Severe or prolonged pressure on the nerves can lead to pain, loss of bladder or bowel control, or even paralysis, to the spinal cord. [2]
To Learn more about IVDD, please refer to our IVDD Part 1 post.
How Long Does IVDD Take to Heal?
After IVDD surgery, your dog will need crate rest, pain management, and physical therapy for about 6-8 weeks in order to properly heal.
It is important to have physical therapy scheduled for your dog after surgery to help them regain their strength.
Some physical therapy can be done at home, while others will require you to take your dog to a qualified canine rehabilitation therapist (either a Physiotherapist or Veterinary Surgeon).
Emergency Symptoms Post-Op Recovery:
If any of the following symptoms occur while your Dachshund is recovering from IVDD surgery, call your vet ASAP:
- Pain, weakness, or immobility
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Difficulty with urinating or defecating
- Blood in the urine or stools
- Stops eating or drinking
- Acting lethargic
Treating IVDD in Dogs:
Treatments for IVDD can go one of two ways: Conservative (non-surgical) or Surgical. It all depends on the severity of the damage to the spinal cord.
When my miniature dachshund, Reno, occasionally would have issues walking. My vet gave him some medication to help reduce the inflammation and pain he was experiencing. That really helped him get back to feeling like himself again.
1. Conservative Treatment Method: (No-Surgery)
The Conservative Treatment Includes:
- Anti-inflammatory medication from your vet
- Crate rest for 6-8 weeks
- Reduction of Activities in order to heal.
Can a Dog Recover from IVDD Without Surgery?
The conservative method is not the “cure all” for IVDD. It is a treatment for the current spinal problem in order to help the dog ‘possibly’ walk again.
2. Surgical Treatment Method:
“If the damage is too severe and the dog is paralyzed or incontinent, conservative treatment may not be enough. In many cases, emergency surgery is needed to open up space. This is done by removing a portion of the bony vertebrae over the spinal cord (laminectomy). Even after surgery, however, the dog may not recover fully.” [7]
At the first sign of symptoms, it is crucial to get your dog to the vet. If surgery is required, the sooner they have the operation the better chances of success they have to be able to walk again. It is recommended that you have your dog’s surgery done by a trained neurologist, not a general veterinarian.
If successful, this surgery may fix the injured discs, but with IVDD, it is unfortunately possible that other discs can rupture in the future.
Successful Therapy for Dachshunds with IVDD:
Some additional treatment methods include the following:
- Hydrotherapy
- Laser Therapy
- Acupuncture
- Stem Therapy
- Physical Therapy Exercises
These methods can be used as conservative treatments or post – surgery treatments.
Hydrotherapy:
Hydrotherapy means “Water-Healing” . This type of therapy involves your dog swimming and the using an underwater treadmill. Being in the water creates resistance and will cushion your dog’s joints.
Post-Op Dog Performing Hydrotherapy
Photo Credit: Dachshund Breed Council, IVDD
Viivi, the wire haired miniature dachshund contracted IVDD when she was 4 years old. Check out Viivi’s Story for details on her symptoms, surgery, and rehabilitation.
Laser Therapy:
With the help of Laser Therapy, Dogs that are not able to stand or walk can regain strength and get back to normal doggie activities. Laser Therapy can reduce the pain caused by IVDD.
Acupuncture:
The Acupuncture method used for IVDD reduces swelling, pain, and inflammation. Acupuncture can restore the damaged nerves and promote faster healing.
Stem Cell Treatment:
Many studies are underway using Stem Cell treatment for dogs with IVDD. Check out Jasper the Dachshund’s story on YouTube and how he regained his mobility after this treatment.
Physical Therapy Exercises for Dogs with IVDD:
The following are a list of exercises your dog may need to do post IVDD surgery. Only do the exercises that your vet recommends for your dog.
Leg Stretches:
As long as the dog is comfortable, stretching exercises can begin soon after surgery. While your dog is laying on their side, you can move the dog’s leg in its natural range of motion. Stretch the legs forward and backward gently.
Sitting and Standing:
To help work on the dog’s back muscles, gently have your dog sit and stand a couple of times daily.
Side Stretches:
Hold the dog’s hind end in one hand and with a small treat (or piece of dog food) in your other hand, get them to follow your hand from one side to another.
They will bring their nose from one side (between the end of the chest and the rear leg) around to the other. This is good for flexibility and stretching the back muscles.
Balance Training:
Using a wobble board is good for strength building and helps build muscle.
Heat Therapy & Massage:
Relieves painful trigger points and muscle spasms and improves your dog’s circulation.
Natural Supplements For Dogs With IVDD:
Two natural supplements are recommended for dogs with IVDD: turmeric and omega-3s.
Note: I am not a veterinarian. I am suggesting products that I have researched and read user reviews on. Always check with your Vet before giving your dog any supplements.
1. Turmeric
Turmeric can help dogs who suffer from chronic joint pain by reducing inflammation.
You can add this supplement to your dog’s food, or purchase a soft chewable tablet on Amazon.
Keep in mind, not all dogs can tolerate turmeric. It is a warming supplement, so if your dog seems pant a lot or sleeps on the cool floor, skip the turmeric.
Caution: If your dog’s on any medications, check with your vet before adding turmeric to her diet. Turmeric can interact with some medications, including anti-inflammatory and diabetes drugs, and chemotherapy treatments.
2. Omega-3s
Omega-3s can help dogs who suffer from chronic joint pain by reducing inflammation.
They can also help regulate and reduce the effects of arthritis in dogs.
Avoid purchasing Fish oil Omega-3s for dogs because it can be toxic to pets. Fish oil supplements oxidize when exposed to oxygen and this actually increases inflammation in pets.
Try this one: Marine Phytoplankton Omega 3 EPA
This is a vegetarian supplement contains omega 3 fatty acids, but not fatty acids obtained from fish. Phytoplankton food contains the Omega-3 essential fatty acids nearly double the amount of omega-3 fats by weight as fish oil. [8]
Aids for Dachshund Mobility
In addition to the above treatment options, you may also want to try a mobility aid for your dog. You can Equip your dog with a wheelchair or back brace to help her get around.
Orthopedic braces for dogs help them regain their strength and sense of independence. Visit the Best IVDD Dog Wheelchair Reviews article. A sling or harness can be beneficial for your dog. Use these to help your dog upstairs, into the car, or when navigating rough terrain. [8]
To Protect our Dachshund’s back, we purchased the Dachramp from Sausage Dog Central. It is lightweight, packs up flat, and nice rubber grips to help our doxies into our bed. This is an Affiliate Link. Please review our Disclaimer for details.
Our Dachshund puppy, Eko, loves his new dachshund ramp!
Will My Dog Recover From IVDD?
Conclusion:
Unfortunately, IVDD can keep your dachshund from doing all of his favorite things: playing, jumping, and digging. Using IVDD prevention tips can help reduce the risk of your dog getting IVDD.
If your dog does have IVDD, the combination of your vet’s care, physical therapy, mobility aids, and natural supplements will help your dog through the healing process.
If your dog has been through IVDD, please post some lessons learned in the comments below.
Learn More about IVDD in Dachshunds (Part 1 of my IVDD Series). Includes: IVDD Prevention, Dog breeds affected by IVDD, IVDD Symptoms.
Helpful Resources:
- DodgersList IVDD Forum: Learn more from other dog moms and dads about IVDD.
- IVDD Info on Pinterest
- DodgersList Physiotherapy YouTube Channel for a post-operative paralyzed dogs.
- Crate rest for dogs: advice for vets by Dr. Marianne Dorn.
- Walking with your recovering dog by Dr. Marianne Dorn.
- Crate Rest Activities for Dogs after Back, Hip, Leg Injuries
- Why your Dachshund with IVDD should not see a Chiropractor
- Sling walking your dog after surgery
Sources:
- Schweitzer, Karen. 2010. Our Best Friends: The Dachshund. Pittsburg, PA: Eldorado Ink.
- Pinney, Chris C. 2010, 2000. Hauppauge, NY 11788.
- NorthStar VETS Vet, NJ. Avoiding back problems in Dachshunds
- UCDAVIS Veterinary Medicine.
- Dachshund Health UK
- Pet Health Network
- PetMD
- Dogs Naturally Magazine
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Great post, I have a friend whose Doxie went through it and he is now with a wheelchair wheeling through the park with nothing stopping him, his other Doxie thank goodness is fine
Hi, Thank you for your comment. I’m glad to hear that your friend’s Doxie made it through and is able to use the doggie wheelchair.
Great advice I know a lot of members of my FB would benefit, as it’s something many have been dealing with. When my dog had his spinal surgery for a ruptured disc, there were exercises I had to do with him throughout the day and he was on cage rest, only 5 minute walks allowed using a sling. I found putting him in my other dog’s stroller so he could at least get out and see people was really helpful as it prevented him from getting too bored or depressed.
Hi Hindy, Thank you for your comment. I appreciate the advice about the doggie stroller. What a great way to help them still enjoy the outdoors safely while they heal.
Physical therapy is such an underappreciated modality, isn’t it? And yet it can accomplish so much.
I love that you mention stem cell therapy–I am a big proponent of regenerative therapies. Used stem cell treatments for Jasmine, used platelet-rich plasma treatment for Cookie.
Hi Jana! Oh wow, that is very cool. I’m glad to hear those treatments worked for them. Thank you for sharing. :)
What I really would have appreciated from you is a brief definition of what IVDD actually is (on your page). I am a cat owner and have no idea but would appreciate expanding my knowledge. This would have a real impact on how much I absorbed from the post.
I know doxie’s have breed specific issues (like some other breeds) so seeing the range of treatments available including stem cell is a real eye opener.
Hi There, This IVDD Therapy post is more of a part 2 to the IVDD series on my blog. At the bottom of this IVDD Therapy post, there is a link to More information about IVDD (part 1). I can certianly add basic IVDD info to this post as well, thank you for the suggestion.
Here is the link to the IVDD Information.
https://www.dachshundstation.com/ivdd-dachshunds/
I hadn’t heard of IVDD, but I had heard that dachshunds could develop back issues easily.
Hello, thank you for sharing. Yes, it is really sad that doxies are prone to this disease.
Great informative post! For different mobility concerns with a few of my Huskies, I,too, have found cold laser therapy, massage, and supplements extremely helpful. A friend also did hydrotherapy (unfortunately, it is not offered in my area) and had amazing results. Thank you for sharing such great info about IVDD and Doxies. Pinning to share with others.
Thank you very much for sharing Dorothy. It is very encouraging to here about positive experiences with IVDD therapy methods.
I’m glad that there are some ways to treat it now! Thanks for recommending a good source for Omega 3, and the interaction potential problems with turmeric. I did not know about either of those.
Hello, Thank you for your comment. Yes, the Omega 3 and Turmeric are also great for inflamation causing pain and arthritus in dogs. As they get older, it is a big help for their joints.
Thank you so much for your site. My little guy Oscar just had surgery to repair a ruptured disk. He had symptoms for maybe three days then had problems standing and was dragging his left back leg. We were fortunate enough to have a hospital that has an MRI and he had surgery the next day. We are three days out from surgery and he seems to be doing really well. He’s going potty on his own and can bear weight on both legs. I’ve never crated my doxies before so I’ve learned a couple of things about crates: Even though Oscar is only 12 pounds and 22 inches long he needs a crate big enough to turn around so we got a 30X18 and it’s working great. Also it’s impossible to lift him correctly using the crate doors so we took off the top hinges and now we can lift him out. We’re also doing cold laser twice a week and he does seem a bit calmer after. I haven’t found too much on post-surgery rehab so Oscar and I really appreciate all the information.
Hi Annette, Thank you so much for your comment. I am sorry Oscar had to have surgery, Poor guy. I do hope he continues to do well with his post surgery therapy. Are you planning on trying Hydro / water therapy as well? That is great that he is responding well to the cold laser therapy. I like the idea of opening up the crate from the top to help him get out, good idea. Thanks so much for sharing.
Scrappy is our 10 yr old who has his mom’s back. A few weeks ago Scrappy had a run in with my grandson and came out with damage. We took him to vet immediately and then to surgeon. Surgery was suggested but could not be performed due to CT scan being broke. Had no other choice due to enormous costs and lack of other qualified surgeon but to wait. We decided steroids and pain meds were best to be used during wait. A laser treatment and being confined went with. Within a week, still waiting for the CT to be fixed, Scrappy started to walk on his toes and not drag his leg. He is still wobbly but surgeon says hes on the heal and even though CT is finally fixed we may not need surgery now. Only time will tell. It’s been 2 weeks and they say to wait another 2 to see how he does with the measures we are using. We’ve been lucky so far. Earlier in life his brother faced the same dilemma and we ended up doing surgery, today he is back to a normal life too.i guess my outlook is, although its expensive, surgery, if available, is the way to go because in either instances the healing takes time but even afterwards the laser is worth every penny.
Hi D Morris, Thank you so much for letting us know about Scrappy and his Brother’s story. I’m so glad Scrappy is doing well after his laser treatment, steroids, and confinement. It is unfortunate that the surgery does cost a lot to save our doxie’s back issues. I’m glad the surgery worked for Scrappy’s Brother. We are very fortunate that they have a lot of alternative methods to try as well.