IVDD Post Integrate HC

IVDD Post-Injury Issues Following Alternative Treatment

The treatment path followed following medical treatment, surgery, or during the integrative treatment path is critical for the maximum return of functionality for dogs with IVDD. A well thought out schedule and attention to the needs of the recovering doxie are the minimal requirements for support. It is important to remember that although full recovery may not come for weeks or even months, the steps taken during those first days of the recovery process may make all the difference to you and your doxie.

DRBC has utilized the integrative treatment path as both a primary and adjunctive form of treatment. Please read the case below. The goal for the outcome was the maximum recovery of function.

This section, like the other post-treatment sections of this site, has been divided into three parts:

Home Care Expectations

It is important to get a clear picture of your doxie's limitations and capabilities before you bring them home from the hospital. Here at DRBC, we work with our qualified veterinarian support staff and develop an individual plan for each doxie to address the issues listed below.

Recovery for the IVDD dachshund is not only a matter of healing time. The home support program your doxie will need is also critical for the best outcome.

It is important to get a clear picture of your doxie's limitations and capabilities before you bring them home from the hospital. Here at DRBC, we work with our veterinarian support staff and develop an individual plan for each doxie to address the issues listed below.

Care Component	Notes/Rationale
Medical Support
Crate Rest	Crate rest, in some form, is usually part of the DRBC Home Care Program. Our crate rest is staged depending on the treatment stage [pre vs. post] and is based on recommendations from our veterinary care team. Crate Rest: Doxies on complete rest must remain in the crate to minimize motion. They are carried outside and are only allowed to take a few steps when eliminating. They are carried back in and placed back in the crate. Meals are fed in the crate. Water is always provided. The bedding contains an eggshell cushion and soft, warm blankets. Bedding changes are frequent.
Medications	Medications for pain, inflammation, and general wellness may be utilized as part of the recovery program. Common medications used in the treatment of DRBC doxies can be found in the pharmacy section of this website or by clicking on the icon below.
Physical Therapy	DRBC doxies often seek the assistance of a physical therapist following an appropriate healing time. Working with a certified veterinary physical therapist can help increase the rate and degree of improvement for your doxie. Remember, check with your veterinary surgeon to ensure enough time has passed before obtaining a referral for PT! Click on the icon below to find out more about PT and to find a certified veterinary physical therapist in your area.
Physical Support
Sling Walking	Pictured above is a doxie in a sling. Note that the back is level, and although the back legs are not supporting the doxies body, the sling is. Veterinary staff members can teach you the proper way to use a sling or towel to assist your doxie. Note: Clicking on the icon above will begin the download of a .pdf document. Note: A new window will open when clicking this icon.
Home Care Expressing Bowel & Bladder Hygiene Issues Bedding	Note: Clicking on the icon above will begin the download of a .pdf document. DRBC advises that you learn how to perform both bladder and/or bowel expression from a veterinary professional. This is not a skill best learned from an instructional CD or over the Internet. Improper treatment can lead to additional medical problems.
Cart Walking	Some doxies need a cart during recovery; others will need a cart for the rest of their lives. Your veterinary surgeon will advise you concerning recovery times and the need for a cart. Here are some general tips when renting or purchasing a cart for your downed doxie: Every doxie's body is different...different length, different height, different weight. Avoid 'borrowing' a cart because the doxie that cart was made for will not be the same as yours. Get a custom fit. Doxies that will use a cart for life often lose weight due to muscle atrophy. Their cart will need to be adjusted over time. Talk to your cart manufacturer about a refit when ordering the cart. Hygiene is key for the IVDD dachshund and for the doxie's cart too. Diapers with belly bands [males] or panties [girls] minimize the inevitable but do not eliminate urine and stool on the cart itself. Always inspect the cart closely when taking your doxie out for bedtimes or expressions. Clean, clean, clean; it is key. Note: A new window will open when clicking this icon.
Protective Sacs	Here are some general tips when using a protective sac for your downed doxie: Hygiene is key for the IVDD dachshund and for the doxie's sac too. Plan on having several on hand as this item will spend a lot of time in the washer. Clean, clean, clean; it is key. Always look for pressure sores and scrapes, even when using a protective sac. Remember, doxies, even those with the power of only two legs, want to run, run, run. They may not feel changing surfaces and can injure themselves unintentionally. Inspect, don't expect! Note: A new window will open when clicking this icon.

NOTE: This section of the DRBC website is offered as a medical reference only. DRBC is not operated by veterinarians. Seek the attention of your veterinarian to obtain a complete understanding of any of the topics listed.