What is Paralysis in Dogs?
Paralysis refers to the loss of function in specific body regions or limbs, resulting in the inability to move one or more limbs. It is a condition that can affect both humans and dogs, often resulting from disruptions in nerve function and communication between the brain, spinal cord, and muscles. It can be concerning when your dog suddenly loses its ability to move around, especially if they seem to be in excellent health just the day before.
A dog may be partially or fully paralysed, depending on the root cause and severity of their condition. It may also affect only their front legs, only their hind legs, only the limbs on one side of the body, or all four legs. If your dog appears to be walking unnaturally or if you suspect they may have paralysis, seek veterinary attention immediately for prompt treatment.
What Causes Paralysis in Dogs?
Several factors can cause paralysis in dogs.
Injury or Trauma
An injury or trauma to the spine or spinal cord could lead to temporary or lasting paralysis. While mild cases may take some time to heal naturally, more extensive damage will require prompt medical intervention to be resolved. Other injuries could also affect the nerves in different parts of your dog’s body. Fractures or dislocations can be particularly concerning, so visit a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has been injured.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
IVDD is a degenerative condition that gradually causes the intervertebral discs (which support the spine) to lose their spongy nature and weaken. The disc’s material can potentially slip or leak out and impinge on nearby nerves or the spinal cord, which could then cause pain and paralysis.
Tick Bites
Some tick bites may inject a neurotoxin into your dog’s bloodstream, which may gradually cause a loss of coordination and then paralysis. Urgent medical treatment is necessary to treat this sudden case of paralysis.
Degenerative Myelopathy
This hereditary condition causes a slow, non-painful destruction of the nerves in the spinal cord. It results in weakness in your dog’s hind limbs and can be difficult for them to get up on their own. It may then progress into paralysis if left untreated.
Fibrocartilaginous Embolism (FCE)
Also known as a spinal stroke, an FCE occurs as a result of a blockage in a spinal artery that obstructs blood flow to the spinal cord. The blockage may result from a broken piece of an intervertebral disc.
Spinal Tumours
Cancerous or non-cancerous tumours may grow anywhere on the nerves or the spinal cord. Not only can this cause a loss of sensation in the affected limbs, but it can also gradually lead to paralysis.
Symptoms of Paralysis in Dogs
Symptoms of paralysis may differ depending on the root cause, but signs that you may see in your dog include:
- Difficulty or inability to move some or all four limbs
- Difficulty or inability to flex joints of affected limbs
- Dragging of paws
- Stiffness in the affected limbs
- Occasional limping or tripping
- Gradual weakness in the limbs or other body parts
- Unusual gait when walking
- Loss of muscle mass
- General weakness
- Incontinence
- Difficulty or unwillingness to run or jump
- Other behavioural changes
Diagnosing Paralysis in Dogs
If your dog is exhibiting signs of paralysis, take them to a veterinarian immediately. The vet will conduct a physical exam to assess your dog’s condition, which may include evaluating their neurologic reflexes by testing their limbs and assessing their normal pain response (or the lack thereof). Be sure to provide as much information as possible about your dog’s health to help the vet better understand the condition.
Additional blood and imaging tests may also be performed if necessary to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may help detect inflammation, infection, or other underlying causes that may have contributed to your dog’s paralysis. Electrical nerve stimulation may also be used to help locate nerve injuries and assess their condition, facilitating a suitable treatment plan.
Treating Paralysis in Dogs
Once a diagnosis is made, treatment for your dog’s paralysis may begin. Your vet will inform you of what to expect, as treatment will depend on the root cause of your dog’s condition. The primary aim will be to support nerve regeneration gradually and maintain your dog’s comfort, supporting gradual recovery through targeted treatments based on the cause of their paralysis.
Medications
Your dog may be given various medications to support their recovery and minimise symptoms. If spinal cord or nerve swelling is detected or suspected, anti-inflammatory medication will be prescribed. If pain management is necessary, pain relievers will be administered to ensure your dog’s comfort.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on a pet’s body. Performed by a qualified and licensed veterinarian, acupuncture sessions aim to provide pain relief and support gradual healing. Acupuncture sessions may also help keep your dog calm and relaxed, supporting their recovery and ensuring their physical and emotional well-being.
Canine Rehabilitation
Like human physiotherapy, canine rehabilitation aims to improve your dog’s motor functions through preventive care techniques. Sessions are usually scheduled alongside ongoing treatments to support your dog’s well-being, helping manage pain and enhance fitness. Your veterinarian will recommend exercises tailored to your dog’s current condition and make gradual adjustments as your dog’s health improves.
A type of rehabilitation modality, this treatment delivers low levels of controlled electric currents to stimulate nerves, strengthen muscles and help alleviate other symptoms. It may also help to improve your dog’s quality of life and keep them comfortable, including reducing stiffness and improving mobility.
Lifestyle Modifications
Your dog requires sufficient cage rest and minimal daily activities to ensure their recovery can progress with little to no complications. You may need to shorten walks to prevent your dog from jumping or running and minimise pain.
Surgery
For more severe cases, surgery may be considered or when nonsurgical therapies have difficulty resolving your dog’s symptoms. Surgical procedures aim to address the root cause of your dog’s paralysis, such as surgically removing a slipped disc impinging on their nerves or spinal cord. The surgical method chosen will depend on your dog’s condition.
Paralysis can significantly impact your dog’s quality of life if left untreated. Contact Bluewater Vet Acupuncture & Rehabilitation today to schedule a health assessment and discuss a treatment plan for your dog’s well-being.