IVDD is not a death sentence, and dogs with this disease can live a quality life.
Having cared for three special needs dachshunds over the years, this page of resources is my way of honoring them and all the blessings they brought to my life.
If you are experiencing this challenge with your dog and need to talk with someone who has been through this, please feel free to reach out to me. I’m always happy to give a half- hour of my time to share my experience and hopefully bring you some peace of mind.
I’ve heard from many over the years that even with surgery there is a 50% or less chance the dog will recover. My dog, Frankie, was given only a 10% chance. But there are many success stories with dogs whose owners have chosen conservative treatment along with many other healing modalities (such as laser therapy, water therapy, acupuncture, etc.) that have helped the dog regain mobility, but even if they don’t, they can still live quality lives. Often, a wheelchair is very helpful for this!
Below are some excellent resources to guide you. My first recommendation is to begin with going to Dodgerslist.com first for many answers to your questions. Link below. Then for healing modalities and things you can do at home check out Sarah MacKeigan’s information. And should you need to get a wheelchair for your dog, I highly recommend Eddie’s Wheels and their information is below also.
xo, Barb
IVDD Resource – (Intervertebral disc disease)
Excellent and helpful resource for dogs diagnosed with IVDD (Intervertebral disc disease).
-How to restrict movement ASAP
-Know your options
-What is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Living with Dogs with Disabilities with Sarah Mackeigan
9+ hours of educational videos to help your dog.
- The difference between DM and other spinal cord conditions like IVDD and why early intervention is so important
- How laser therapy and other modalities can decrease pain , promote healing and even slow disease progression!
- How diet, supplementation, and herbs combined with physiotherapy can promote spinal cord healing!
- Identifying back pain early and why “central stability” is so important.
- Mobility aides that can provide your dog with independence, promote functional mobility, and keep them an active family member!
Wheelchairs for Dogs
-The world’s best custom built dog wheelchair at an affordable price.
-Designed and manufactured in the USA.
-Warranteed for the Life of Your Pet