Degenerative myelopathy in dogs

Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a serious disease in dogs that causes progressive weakness in their hind legs, eventually leading to paralysis. Similar to Lou Gehrig's disease in humans, DM gradually impairs mobility. While there is no cure, regular physical therapy can help slow the disease's progression. Unfortunately, DM is fatal, and most affected dogs are euthanized within a few years due to a decline in their quality of life. However, advancements in veterinary medicine are providing hope for longer, happier lives for these beloved pets.

What is Degenerative Myelopathy in dogs?

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) in dogs is a slow-developing nerve disorder that affects the spinal cord. It damages the nerve fibres that help transmit signals in the body. This condition is commonly seen in breeds like German Shepherds, Corgis, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Siberian Huskies, and Boxers, as well as in mixed breed dogs. It typically starts to show symptoms when dogs are around eight to nine years old. As DM advances, it causes weakness in the hind limbs and can eventually lead to paralysis.

Signs of Degenerative Myelopathy in dogs

Early signs of Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) in dogs include hind paw knuckling, swaying hindquarters, and difficulty rising. In advanced stages, dogs with DM lose muscle in their back legs, making it even harder to move around. In severe cases, the disease can also affect their front legs and cause problems with breathing and controlling their bladder. Eventually, DM leads to complete paralysis of the back legs.

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Causes of Degenerative Myelopathy in dogs

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) in dogs is mainly influenced by genetics, though the exact cause remains unclear. Certain genetic variations can increase the likelihood of DM, but not all dogs with these variations will develop the disease. Environmental factors are also believed to contribute to its progression. Research continues to explore the complex relationship between genetic predisposition and environmental influences in the development of DM in dogs.

Diagnosing Degenerative Myelopathy

Diagnosing degenerative myelopathy (DM) in dogs involves a thorough process that starts with evaluating breed predisposition, medical history, and physical exams. X-rays and spinal imaging are essential for ruling out conditions like hip dysplasia and arthritis, which can mimic DM symptoms and affect hindquarters. Further diagnostic steps may include spinal fluid analysis, biopsies, and tests to assess nerve function. Genetic testing is also crucial for confirming DM in breeds at risk showing clinical signs.

However, diagnosing DM remains complex and often requires multiple tests to exclude other spinal cord diseases. Advanced imaging, such as MRI or CT scans, may be recommended to detect spinal cord compression or inflammation. 

How to manage dogs with Degenerative Myelopathy?

Managing Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) in dogs centres on supportive care, as there is currently no cure for this progressive neurological condition. Effective strategies include regular physical therapy sessions, such as water therapy and gentle exercises using supportive harnesses or slings, aimed at slowing muscle degeneration and preserving mobility. Maintaining a healthy weight through controlled diet and exercise, like supervised walks and swimming, is crucial to alleviate strain on affected limbs.

Practical adjustments at home can significantly improve your dog's comfort and mobility. These include using rugs or carpets on slippery floors, installing ramps or steps to aid movement, and using supportive slings or harnesses during walks. Protective measures like booties to prevent paw injuries and addressing concurrent conditions such as arthritis are also essential for enhancing your dog's quality of life. Despite the challenges posed by DM, proactive care and supportive measures can greatly extend your dog's ability to stay active and maintain overall well-being.

Final thoughts:

If your dog shows signs like weak hind legs, difficulty walking, or changes in coordination, it's important to see your vet right away. Early detection helps manage symptoms of degenerative myelopathy (DM), a condition that worsens over time and has no cure. While outcomes vary, starting treatment early with supportive care and lifestyle adjustments can help maintain your dog's mobility and comfort.

It is vital to begin end-of-life care discussions before your dog‘s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life. 

Don’t wait until the very end. It’s important to consider your pet’s end-of-life journey early, so that you, your family and your pet are all supported through the process.

When the time comes, we’re here for you. Goodbye Good Boy provides a range of end-of-life services to make the difficult process of saying goodbye a little easier. 

We offer quality of life assessments from qualified vets, specialist grief counselling, at home euthanasia from dedicated end of life veterinarians, as well as cremation services and memorial options to help remember your pet for their unique character.

We are with you at every step of the journey.

To find out more, you can call our team of passionate pet lovers on 1800 953 619.

‍This article was reproduced with permission from Goodbye Good Boy advisor Dr Dani McVety, of Lap Of Love.