IVDD Spine/Disc Center
Welcome to the DRBC IVDD Center
This section of DRBC's medical reference guide has been revised. The toolbar at the left will stay as a fixed reference as you move through this section of our website. There is a tremendous amount of information here. Please take your time!
This page has been designed as a tool to educate and to help you find solutions to your IVDD issues, so please scroll down the page to familiarize yourself with the information here. As it can be a little overwhelming, it has been divided into 'mind-sized bites'.
IVDD Factoids
Here are some important factoids concerning IVDD and the long hound breeds, specifically the dachshund.
- Intervertebral Disc Disease or IVDD will affect one in four dachshunds.
- This disease knows no age limits but is most common in dogs between the ages of 3 to 9 years of age.
- IVDD need not be a death sentence; there are options.
- Improvements in veterinary medicine and pharmacology make IVDD treatments [surgical, medical or alternative] safer every year.
It is hoped that the information found here will educate you on this disease and make discussions with your veterinarian and veterinary surgeon easier.
Overview
There are 12 sections on IVDD including this home page. A brief description of each follows:
| Page | Description |
|---|---|
| IVDD Home | You Are Here! Return to this page for expanded information on the topics in this guide. |
| Disease Background | This page provides an overview and discussion on disc degeneration and trauma. |
| Prevention | There are steps doxie owners can take to help prevent or minimize the incidence of IVDD. Check on our preventative measures for your doxie. |
| Signs & Symptoms | Concerned that your dog is showing signs of disc disease? Check this page. |
| Possible Causes | Why do doxies experience the highest rate of disc disease? The answer is on this page. |
| Diagnostic Tools | What tests or tools will your vet most likely use to determine if your doxie has IVDD? The explanation here. |
| Treatment Information | Medical, Surgical, and Alternative treatment options are all discussed in this section. |
| Medications | This section lists the most common medications used for the treatment of IVDD. |
| Post Treatment Issues | Regardless of the treatment chosen, here is what you can expect afterward. |
| Cautionary Statements | Things that worry us in the care of the IVDD doxie. |
| Supplemental Information | Topics from getting financial aid, through K9 Carts, ramps, and hope. All here. |
| Questions for the Veterinarian | What to ask your veterinarian or veterinary surgeon. |
This is Greta, a very special IVDD doxie. Greta is walking with a little help these days thanks to a committed and supportive Mom. Click on Greta's picture to read her story of hope and recovery.
Additional Notes:
- There are no 'over-the-counter' fixes for IVDD. Please consult a qualified veterinarian before using any medications or OTC products with your dachshund.
- The information offered herein is for informational and educational and purposes only. Seek the timely care of a licensed veterinarian or veterinary surgeon if you believe your dog is exhibiting any of the signs or symptoms of IVDD. This website does not seek to diagnose or treat IVDD.