Back Pain in Dogs

Most of us have experienced the pain of a muscle strain in our back - it can be a minor ache from doing a bit too much or it can be a totally debilitating ruptured disk which can cause problems for us the rest of our lives.  Dogs also suffer from back problems.  Breeds with long backs such as  Dachshunds, Corgis, Basset Hounds, Pekingese, Shih Tzus and Lhasa Apsos are especially prone to back issues, though larger breeds can suffer from them as well.

There are many medical treatment options, including  extended crate rest, acupuncture ,laser treatments and surgery.  There are also some health care items which can be of great benefit.  For another option before surgery, as well as a great preventative for after-care is a back brace such as "Lil Back Bracer".  The idea is to hold the dog's back in a correct position to avoid farther harm.    If your dog has gone through medical interventions and has mobility problems, there are wheelchairs made for dogs.  These can be purchased online through sites such as Handicapped Pets.Com 

Dodgers List  is a site dedicated to educating and sharing information regarding Intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) in dogs.  Whether you are just beginning the IVDD journey with your dog, or you are already through the medical treatment, this site can help.

Bottom line is to do as much as possible to protect your dog's back before an issue develops,  get treatment quickly when needed, and if the outcome isn't as good as expected, to realize that doesn't mean the end.  There are ways to mobilize a dog that has been paralyzed so you can enjoy many more years together.