Why has my dog's hind legs stopped working and what should I do? - briefly
If your dog's hind legs have suddenly stopped working, it could be due to conditions such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), degenerative myelopathy, or a spinal cord injury. Immediately restrict their movement and contact your veterinarian for professional advice and treatment options.
Why has my dog's hind legs stopped working and what should I do? - in detail
If your dog's hind legs have suddenly stopped working, it is crucial to understand that this could be indicative of several serious underlying health conditions. Here are some potential causes and steps you should take immediately:
Potential Causes:
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): This condition occurs when the discs between vertebrae in the spine herniate or bulge, pressing on the spinal cord and nerves. It is common in breeds like Dachshunds, Beagles, and Basset Hounds. Symptoms include weakness, paralysis, and sometimes even loss of bladder control.
- Degenerative Myelopathy: This progressive neurological disorder affects the spinal cord, causing gradual hind leg weakness and paralysis. It is more common in older dogs, particularly German Shepherds, Boxers, and Welsh Corgis.
- Spondylosis or Arthritis: Degenerative changes in the spine or joints can cause pain and discomfort that may manifest as hind leg weakness or paralysis.
- Trauma or Injury: A recent fall, accident, or injury could have caused damage to the spinal cord or nerves, leading to hind leg dysfunction.
- Toxins or Poisons: Consumption of certain substances, like chocolate, grapes, or raisins, can cause neurological symptoms including weakness and paralysis.
- Infectious Diseases: Conditions such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, or even viral infections can affect the nervous system and lead to hind leg issues.
Immediate Steps to Take:
- Stay Calm: Your dog needs you to remain calm so they can sense that you are in control of the situation.
- Limit Movement: Prevent your dog from moving around too much to avoid further damage or injury. If possible, carry them to a comfortable and safe place.
- Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately: Time is critical when dealing with neurological issues. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen; call your vet right away.
- Provide Comfort: Keep your dog warm and comfortable, but avoid giving any medication unless instructed by your veterinarian.
- Observe Carefully: Note any changes in behavior, loss of bladder or bowel control, or worsening of symptoms. This information will be valuable for your vet.
- Follow Veterinary Advice: Your vet may recommend an emergency visit or immediate diagnostic tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to determine the cause of the hind leg paralysis.
Long-Term Care and Management: Depending on the underlying cause, your dog may require a combination of treatments including surgery, physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Your veterinarian will provide a detailed plan tailored to your dog's specific needs. It is essential to follow their advice closely to ensure the best possible outcome for your pet.
Preventive Measures:
- Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help maintain your dog's overall physical health and reduce the risk of certain conditions.
- Keep your dog away from potential toxins or hazards in the environment.
- Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to monitor your dog's health and catch any issues early.