The Cycle of IVDD
- Naajamah Jones
- Nov 18, 2019
- 4 min read
IVDD is a disease that dachshunds are unfortunately prone to but being informed, knowing the signs, and catching it early is what's important.
What is IVDD?
IVDD stands for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration or Intervertebral Disc Disease. This is a disease in the spinal cord in which the consistency between the discs in the spine begin to dry out. IVDD has to categories: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 IVDD is the most common type and more commonly seen in dachshunds. This disease is not specific to dachshunds, but since their legs are so short they are extremely prone to IVDD. 1 in 4 dachshunds are affected by this disease, but preventing it altogether is what is important.
Catchin' it Early
There is a wide array of symptoms that can you can keep an eye out for in your dachshund so you are able to prevent IVDD in your pup which can save them pain and you money.
1. Unwillingness to jump
If your dachshund is not being as active as they usually are and are having trouble jumping up and down furniture then this might an area of concern. Their back might be causing them pain which can explain the lack of activity.
2. Muscles spasms over back or neck
If you are able to notice, this could be from the spinal discs that are inflamed or injured. Providing massages or ice and heat on the area of the muscle spasm can help. This does require the attention of a veterinarian.
3. Reduced appetite and activity level
This symptom can be broad but knowing your dog and their appetite and activity level is important. Pain from the IVDD can have a direct impact on their activity level thus causing them not to want to eat.
4. Crying out in pain when touched
Direct pain from certain areas like their back, hips, or neck is concerning and might be signs of early IVDD.
5. Paralysis
This is a more severe symptom but left untreated IVDD can lead to complete paralysis.
6. Incoordination
Typically dachshunds do not have problems with coordination, but if you notice your dachshund stumbling over their legs, dragging their paws on the ground, or trying to walk with their paws placed upside down then they could be affected by IVDD.
7. Hunched Back
Dachshunds are not supposed to have hunched backs. It should be aligned with their tail when pulled out straight. Disc issues can result in hunched backs as the discs can protrude from the spine. Dachshunds might also be slow to move around or have a sensitive belly.
IVDD can present a wide array of symptoms, but these are the main symptoms that occur typically. If you think your dachshund might have IVDD then taking them to the vet should be the first course of action.
Treatment
IVDD can be treated! This disease is not a death sentence for your dachshund and can be reversed or treated through two courses of actions: conservative treatment and surgery
Conservative Treatment
This type of treatment entails rest and medication over a 6 to 8 week period. Typically, if your dachshund is prescribed this kind of treatment then their IVDD is not that severe and your vet does think that surgery is necessary to treat their IVDD.
During this 6 to 8 week period, your dachshund should be put on cage rest while taking their steroid or painkillers which will reduce disc extrusion and allow the spine to heal. This course of treatment is extremely helpful in getting your dachshund back to their normal selves, but they are still prone to having disc issues in the future.
Surgery
The second type of treatment is surgery and is typically considered when your dog has a more severe case of IVDD. This is will require you to get a consultation from a vet or a specialist and an MRI so the location of the IVDD can be determined. There are two types of surgeries that your dachshund can have to treat IVDD. The first is a fenestration procedure and the other is a hemilaminectomy.
Fenestration
This kind of surgery is relatively quick with short recovery time. The disc material in the spinal canal is not removed during surgery and this is typically done with smaller spinal decompressions.
Hemilaminectomy
This surgery is more complex and is categorized as "technically difficult" since the disc material is removed. A decompressive technique is used and involves drilling a hole in the spinal canal.
Recovery & Post-IVDD Life
The surgery or cage rest is over but your dachshund still has some work to do to make sure they continue to heal and doxie owners have work to do to make sure they prevent this from happening again. Here a heartwarming video of the famous Crusoe the dachshund on his recovery journey after having surgery.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thank you to all that have tuned in to my doxie blogs over the last 8 weeks (went by kind of fast, huh?). It has been fun and I've even learned a lot about myself and dachshunds too! Sadly, this will be the end of our dachshund journey, but I might pick it up later (probably after I graduate) so keep your eyes peels. Happy holidays and give your dachshunds kisses for me <3
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