Caring for Dogs with Lumbar IVDD at Home: A Comprehensive Guide
In this informative article, we'll delve into the nuances of lumbar Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in dogs. More importantly, we'll share effective home care tips to keep your four-legged friends comfortable and healthy. My name is Adam, and today, alongside my trusted companion, Bo, we'll navigate this journey together.
Understanding Lumbar IVDD
Primarily, it's crucial to familiarize ourselves with the condition in question, Lumbar IVDD. This common ailment in dogs arises from degenerative changes in the cartilage, also known as discs, sandwiched between the vertebrae in the spine. Occasionally, these changes lead to a bulging or herniated disc that can trigger future degenerative alterations.
These conditions exert pressure on the spinal cord, resulting in pain, walking difficulties, and in extreme scenarios, partial paralysis. Today, our focus will be on the chronic degenerative changes that can be diagnosed via X-ray. If you lack X-ray facilities, refer to our video on Top Line to spot potential signs of IVDD in your dog.
Effective Home Care Strategies for Lumbar IVDD
The big question is, how do we take care of our furry companions at home when they have lumbar IVDD? Let's explore some general tips and a specific therapy that I've found notably beneficial for this condition.
Managing Flare-ups
Flare-ups are sudden and intense bouts of pain or symptoms. They can be managed effectively with prescribed medications such as anti-inflammatories from your vet.
Rest and Environmental Adjustments
The second essential home care tip is rest. Restricting your dog's movement prevents exacerbation of symptoms and promotes healing. Simultaneously, consider making necessary environmental adjustments for your dog's safety and comfort. Place non-slip mats and rugs on slippery surfaces, avoid stairs, and keep the space cozy and warm.
IVDD Lumbar Sling - Help Going Up
Non-Slip Washable Runner Rug
Grooming and Diet
It's vital to trim the hair between the pads on your dog's paws, especially in long-haired breeds. Excess hair can mimic a slippery surface, increasing the risk of injury.
Moreover, maintaining a healthy diet for your dog is crucial. A balanced diet not only supports general well-being but also alleviates inflammation, fostering a faster healing process. Specific joint supplements can be added to your dog’s diet to improve the function and longevity of the joints.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation or therapy, such as physiotherapy and hydrotherapy, helps to fortify muscles supporting the spine. If professional therapy isn't accessible, you can opt for home-based techniques like releasing the psoas muscle in the lower back. This method helps to reduce tension and compression in the lower back.
Spine Mobilization
Lastly, I advocate for passive extension of the lower back. By applying a gentle force to your dog's spine, you can help to mobilize the lower back and induce segmental extension between the vertebrae. This technique should be done gently and when your dog is not in pain.
Taking care of a dog with lumbar IVDD may seem daunting, but with diligent care and attention, your dog can still lead a happy and healthy life. Remember, our ultimate goal is to alleviate discomfort and prevent the condition from deteriorating.
We hope this guide empowers you with the necessary knowledge to navigate this path confidently and effectively. It's all about lending our furry companions a helping paw when they need it the most.