Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive neurological disease that affects the spinal cord of dogs, causing muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventually, loss of motor function. It's a heartbreaking condition that can be challenging to diagnose.
Symptoms of degenerative myelopathy often start with a loss of coordination and balance, which can cause dogs to stumble or drag their hind legs. This can be quite scary for pet owners.
As the disease progresses, dogs may experience increased panting due to the buildup of heat in their muscles, which can be a sign of muscle fatigue. Panting is a common symptom in dogs with degenerative myelopathy.
The panting in dogs with degenerative myelopathy is often more pronounced, especially after exercise or physical activity, and can be a sign that the dog is struggling to regulate their body temperature.
Understanding the Condition
Degenerative myelopathy is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning other diseases with similar clinical signs have to be ruled out first.
A blood sample may be taken to rule out metabolic causes of spinal cord dysfunction, such as cobalamin deficiency, and also for genetic testing for the degenerative myelopathy associated genetic mutation.
Degenerative myelopathy is often diagnosed based on clinical signs, breed, and age, but a definitive diagnosis requires excluding other diseases.
Older dogs may be affected by more than one disease process, such as intervertebral disc disease, so the presence of other diseases does not exclude the presence of degenerative myelopathy.
MRI and CSF analysis requires a general anaesthetic, but your dog will have dedicated one-to-one care during their MRI scan by a trained and experienced nurse.
Dog Care
Dog Care is crucial for maintaining your furry friend's overall health. Regular exercise is essential, but it's also important to monitor your dog's physical condition, especially if they're prone to degenerative myelopathy.
A well-balanced diet is vital for supporting your dog's spinal health. Feeding your dog a nutrient-rich food can help alleviate symptoms of degenerative myelopathy.
Dogs with degenerative myelopathy may exhibit unusual behaviors, such as loss of coordination or difficulty walking. It's essential to provide a safe and stable environment to prevent injuries.
Providing a comfortable place for your dog to rest is also crucial, as degenerative myelopathy can cause pain and discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does degenerative myelopathy in dogs affect breathing?
Degenerative myelopathy in dogs can lead to breathing difficulties if left untreated, often occurring within three years of onset. In severe cases, dogs may struggle to breathe normally.
What are the final stages of degenerative myelopathy?
Degenerative myelopathy's final stages occur 24-36 months after diagnosis, where dogs become completely paralyzed and experience severe muscle loss throughout their body
How do you know when to put your dog down with degenerative myelopathy?
When to euthanize a dog with degenerative myelopathy depends on the severity of symptoms, such as loss of mobility, paralysis, and organ failure. If your dog's quality of life is significantly compromised, it may be time to consider end-of-life care
How do I make my dog with degenerative myelopathy comfortable?
Relieve your dog's discomfort with a healthy diet and regular exercise, such as walking and swimming, to maintain their mobility. Consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice on managing related symptoms
Sources
- Degenerative Myelopathy | Pet Talk | VMBS News (tamu.edu)
- Canine degenerative myelopathy (fitzpatrickreferrals.co.uk)
- How to Help Your Dog with Degenerative Myelopathy (thewildest.com)
- Degenerative myelopathy in dogs (caninegeneticdiseases.net)
- degenerative myelopathy in dogs (petwave.com)
- Lou Gehrig’s disease (pnas.org)
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