IVDD: Intervertebral Disc Disease
by Ben J. Character, DVM
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a condition that can affect any animal, but is more common in small dogs. The major predisposing factor for IVDD is body conformation. Small dogs with a conformation of long bodies and short legs are prone to IVDD.
IVDD is commonly refereed to as a “slipped disk”. Although disk problems make up a major component of IVDD, it is not always part of the problem. The most common symptom of IVDD is back pain. This type of pain can be expressed as reluctance to move, vomiting, uncoordinated hindlimbs, and even paralysis.
Frequently IVDD is seen after an incident such as jumping from the couch, or running down stairs. In severe cases, this will immediately result in paralysis of the hindlimbs. These cases should be considered emergencies, and treatment should be started as soon as possible to try to prevent permanent paralysis.
Most case of IVDD will respond to conservative treatment. This involves medication and strict cage rest. It is very important that the dog rest to prevent more injury to the back and spinal cord. In some cases, surgery is the only option to prevent permanent paralysis.