Mary Allen
#10 Hemivertebra
This is a malformation of one or more vertebrae, resulting in a wedge or triangle shape. This malformation can occur alone or together with other vertebral malformations. Hemivertebra can run smoothly, or it can put pressure on the spinal cord. This can cause pain, weakness, and/or paralysis. There are no treatment options unless there is pressure on the spinal cord.
#11 Patellar luxation
This is a common problem in small dogs. It occurs when the patella, which consists of three parts - the femur (thigh bone), the patella itself (kneecap), and the tibia (calf) - is not properly aligned.
It causes lameness or an abnormal gait, like jumping or hopping. The condition is present from birth, although the actual deformity or dislocation sometimes appears much later. Rubbing through the patellar dislocation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease.
There are four grades of patellar dislocation, ranging from grade I, an occasional dislocation that causes temporary paralysis of the joints, to grade IV, where the rotation of the tibia is excessive and the patella cannot be straightened manually. This gives the dog a bow-legged appearance. Pronounced degrees of patellar dislocation may require surgical repair.
#12 Herniated Disc
BSV happens when a disc in the spine ruptures or herniates and presses into the spinal cord. If the intervertebral disc presses into the spinal cord, the transmission of information by the nerves is inhibited. Herniated discs can be triggered by trauma, age, or just the physical jolt of a dog jumping onto the sofa.
When a disc ruptures, the dog usually feels pain and the ruptured disc can cause weakness and temporary, or even permanent, paralysis. Treatment usually involves nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSEHMs) made specifically for dogs.
Never give your dog Tylenol or other NSEHMs made for humans as these can be toxic to the dog. In some cases, surgery can help, but the surgery must be done within a day of the injury.
Also, ask your veterinarian about physical rehabilitation. Massage, water treadmills, and electrical stimulation are also available for dogs and can have excellent results.