Knowing When to Put Down a Dog with Degenerative Myelopathy

Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease that affects a dog's spinal cord and can lead to paralysis. The disease is often compared to ALS in humans.

Symptoms of degenerative myelopathy can be subtle at first, but they worsen over time, causing significant discomfort and suffering for the dog.

Dogs with degenerative myelopathy may experience loss of coordination, weakness, and paralysis in their legs, which can make it difficult for them to stand, walk, or even move.

The decision to put a dog down with degenerative myelopathy is never easy, but it's essential to consider the dog's quality of life and overall health.

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Degenerative myelopathy is a hereditary adult-onset spinal cord disease that affects dogs, similar to ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease in humans.

Symptoms typically don't begin until dogs are around 8 years old, but can start anywhere from 4-14 years old. Dogs with DM experience slowly progressive weakness and an inability to control their hind limbs, eventually leading to paralysis.

Dogs with DM remain mentally alert throughout the disease's progression, which can take months or several years to unfold. The symptoms progress in a way that's worth understanding, so you can be prepared for what's to come.

Degenerative myelopathy symptoms can progress over months or even years, and typically don't affect a dog's mental state, keeping them alert throughout the disease's progression.

The symptoms of degenerative myelopathy usually start in the hind legs, with a dog showing reluctance to put their hind feet on the underside of the ground and knuckling of their hind feet.

In the intermediate stage, a dog may experience difficulty supporting their weight with their hind legs, inability to walk without support, and urinary and fecal incontinence.

Other symptoms in the intermediate stage may include difficulty eating and a change in the tone of barking.

As the disease progresses, a dog may experience paralysis of their hind legs, followed by weakness and eventual paralysis in their front legs.

A well-balanced diet can help ensure your dog continues to receive all the nutrients they need to stay healthy, and switching to an all-natural fresh or healthier kibble dog food may be a good option.

It's essential to consult with a veterinarian to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, as the early symptoms of degenerative myelopathy can resemble other conditions, such as arthritis and hip dysplasia.

Here are some common symptoms of degenerative myelopathy in the intermediate stage:

Keep in mind that every dog's experience with degenerative myelopathy is unique, and it's crucial to work closely with your veterinarian to understand your dog's specific needs and develop a plan to manage their symptoms.

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Diagnosis can be a long and challenging process for veterinarians trying to determine if your dog has Degenerative Myelopathy (DM).

The only definitive way to diagnose DM is through a postmortem examination of the spinal cord during a necropsy, but veterinarians use a series of tests to arrive at a suspected diagnosis.

Veterinarians will typically start by conducting X-rays, CT, or MRI scans to rule out other conditions that could be causing your dog's symptoms, such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, or intervertebral disk disease.

Other tests may include tissue biopsies, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and neuromuscular tests to help determine the cause of your dog's weakness and mobility problems.

If your dog hasn't already had a DNA health-risk test, your vet may conduct one to check for the SOD1 mutation, which can be a contributing factor to DM.

A necropsy is the only way to confirm a diagnosis of DM, but veterinarians can use a combination of tests to determine if your dog is likely to have the condition.

Laser treatment can be used to reduce pain and inflammation from degenerative myelopathy, but it's not a cure.

The vet may recommend management options to help your dog's quality of life, but they can't cure the condition.

Your dog's health can decline quickly, so it's essential to be aware of the signs of degenerative myelopathy and seek veterinary care promptly.

As you navigate the challenges of managing degenerative myelopathy (DM) in your furry friend, it's essential to understand the complexities of the condition.

The progression of DM can be unpredictable, as seen in the case of Bella, a 12-year-old lab-mix who suddenly worsened after a laser treatment for suspected hip arthritis.

Pain is not a primary symptom of DM itself, but compensatory actions can lead to discomfort. For instance, a dog may work harder in their front end and shoulders to compensate for hind-end weakness.

A dog's wobbly gait can cause muscle sprains or falls, and pressure sores may develop if they lie in one position for too long.

Arthritis can be aggravated by mobility issues, making it even more challenging for a dog to get up from their bed.

Here are some potential pain-related issues to watch out for:

As you navigate the late stage of your dog's DM journey, it's essential to be aware of the signs that indicate the condition's progression. Weakened front legs and shoulders are a common symptom.

Your dog may also experience uncontrollable or jerky tail and leg movements. This can be unsettling, but it's crucial to remember that it's a sign of the condition's advancement.

Paralysis or complete paraplegia can occur, making it difficult for your dog to move. Organ failure is another potential complication.

In addition to these physical symptoms, your dog may struggle with near to complete loss of balance and body coordination. Respiratory issues can also arise, making it harder for your dog to breathe.

As the condition progresses, your dog may become unable to support its body, making it essential to provide a safe and comfortable environment.

Managing mobility issues is a crucial part of caring for your dog with Degenerative Myelopathy (DM). As Bella's owners mentioned, even simple tasks become difficult as the condition progresses.

Your dog may struggle to walk or play, but mobility also encompasses everyday activities like getting up from their bed or changing positions while lying down. These tasks become hard to accomplish as the disease advances.

In the later stages of DM, your dog may have trouble getting up from a lying down position, or even getting their paws flat on the ground. This can be a challenge for dogs who are used to being active.

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Here are some common mobility issues you may see in your dog:

These mobility issues can be distressing for your dog, and it's essential to provide them with the support and care they need.

As you navigate the challenges of caring for a dog with degenerative myelopathy, it's essential to consider their quality of life.

The disease's late-stage effects can be devastating, and it may be best to consider euthanasia if your dog's quality of life continues to suffer due to uncontrollable symptoms.

The progression of the disease can be unpredictable, but it's generally understood to last from six months to one year without treatment, or up to three years with proper treatment.

You can try to make your dog's life as comfortable as possible, especially in the early stages of the disease.

In general, degenerative myelopathy progresses over 12-18 months from the time symptoms appear, and most dogs are euthanized due to disability within 1-3 years after diagnosis.

Every dog is different, and some deteriorate quicker than others, making it crucial to monitor their condition closely and make informed decisions about their care.

It's better to prepare and weigh the factors that can help you decide the best time to consider in-home euthanasia, rather than waiting until the disease has progressed too far.

Deciding when to put down a dog with degenerative myelopathy is never easy. It's a highly personal and individual choice, and what's right for one dog may not be right for another.

Your veterinarian can't make this decision for you, but they can help you in the decision-making process. It's essential to discuss your dog's situation with them and get their professional opinion.

The progression of degenerative myelopathy can be unpredictable, but it's generally agreed that the early to late stages of the disease can last anywhere from six months to one year without treatment. With proper treatment, your dog's life can be extended up to three years.

As a dog owner, you know your pet best, and it may be helpful to ask for an opinion from a trusted veterinarian who knows your dog. They can provide valuable insights and help you make a decision that's in the best interest of your dog.

There are several signs that may indicate it's time to consider euthanasia. These include:

It's essential to consider your own physical, mental, and emotional well-being when making this decision. If you're feeling overwhelmed, it may be time to consider euthanasia. Your dog doesn't want to feel like a burden, and it's essential to give them a peaceful and dignified end to their life.