Understanding Degenerative Disc Disease

At Camp Cocker Rescue, we’ve encountered more than our fair share of dogs suffering from degenerative disc disease - also known as IVDD or Intervertebral Disc Disease. As a result, we’ve made it our business to learn as much as we can about this condition by consulting with veterinarians, surgeons & neurology specialists. We’ve also studied animal medical websites to increase our understanding, and to be able to share answers to some of the questions we get from potential & existing Cocker Spaniel owners.

To help explain IVDD, we’ve sourced the VCA Hospital website @

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/degenerative-disc-disease-in-dogs

highlights: answers to some of our most commonly asked questions

Which breeds are most susceptible to degenerative disc disease?

“Most dogs with degenerative disc disease are middle-aged, from three to seven years old. Certain breeds, especially the Dachshund, Poodle, Pekinese, Lhasa Apso, German Shepherd Dog, Doberman, and Cocker Spaniel have a high incidence of intervertebral disc disease.”

What is a disc?

“The disc is composed of two parts, and has a structure similar to a jelly donut. The outer covering (fibrous ring) is much like a thick shell. It is made of tough fibers that protect and contain the central part (pulpy nucleus). The central part of the disc is softer and has the consistency of thick toothpaste.”

What is degenerative disc disease?

“Degenerative disc disease causes spontaneous degeneration of the outer part of the disc, resulting in sudden disc rupture or herniation. Since the disc is thinnest near the spinal cord, the disc material that escapes through the tear usually goes upward, putting pressure on the spinal cord. Because the spinal cord is encased within its bony canal, it cannot move away from the pressure and it becomes "pinched."“

What causes a ruptured disc?

“A disc rupture may or may not be related to injury. In many cases, the disc rupture occurs after a fall or a relatively small jump. Although this act is frequently blamed for the disc rupture, the injury actually occurred due to chronic disc degeneration.”

How is this condition diagnosed?

“A probable diagnosis of disc disease will be based on the dog's history of neck or back pain, uncoordinated walking, or paralysis, with or without a history of recent trauma. If the dog is one of the high-incidence breeds, this disease will be high on the list of potential causes of the patient's symptoms.”

"If the diagnosis is in doubt or if the patient will undergo surgery, further diagnostic imaging may be performed."

Are all disc ruptures treated with surgery?

“Not necessarily. The recommended treatment is based on the stage of the disease.”

“Dogs with early stages of disease may be able to be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, muscle relaxers, and exercise restriction.”

FOR A MORE COMPLETE DISCUSSION OF IVDD, VISIT THE VCA HOSPITALS WEBSITE AT

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/degenerative-disc-disease-in-dogs