Understanding Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a progressive, non-inflammatory, and degenerative disease that affects the spinal cord of dogs. It is a neurodegenerative disease that primarily affects older dogs, especially in large or medium-sized breeds. DM is a debilitating disease that causes weakness and eventually paralysis in the hind limbs of dogs. The disease progresses gradually, and there is currently no cure for it.

What is Degenerative Myelopathy?

DM primarily affects the myelin sheath, which is a protective covering around the nerves in the spinal cord. As the disease progresses, the myelin sheath breaks down, leading to the degeneration of the spinal cord. This degeneration causes the nerves to malfunction, leading to a loss of coordination, weakness, and eventually paralysis in the hind limbs. DM is a hereditary disease, and it is more prevalent in some breeds, such as German Shepherds, Boxers, and Pembroke Welsh Corgis.

The Causes of Degenerative Myelopathy

DM is primarily caused by a genetic mutation that affects the SOD1 gene in dogs. The SOD1 gene is responsible for producing an enzyme that protects nerve cells from damage caused by free radicals. When the SOD1 gene is mutated, the enzyme produced is faulty and causes the accumulation of toxic proteins that damage the nerve cells. The accumulation of these toxic proteins causes the myelin sheath to break down, leading to the degeneration of the spinal cord. However, not all dogs with the mutation develop DM, and the disease progression may vary from one dog to another. Other factors such as age, gender, and environment may also play a role in the development and progression of the disease.

Symptoms of Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs

The symptoms of DM start gradually and may be mistaken for other conditions, such as arthritis. The initial symptoms of DM include a loss of coordination, weakness, and dragging of the hind legs. As the disease progresses, the dog may develop muscle atrophy, loss of sensation in the hind limbs, and difficulty standing or walking. In the advanced stages of DM, the dog may become completely paralyzed in the hind limbs and lose control of their bladder and bowel movements.

The Early Stages of Degenerative Myelopathy

In the early stages of DM, the dog may show mild symptoms such as difficulty getting up, dragging of the hind legs, and a loss of coordination. The dog may also show signs of weakness in the hind legs and may have trouble climbing stairs or jumping. These symptoms may be mild at first, and the dog may seem to recover after a period of rest.

The Middle Stages of Degenerative Myelopathy

In the middle stages of DM, the dog’s condition worsens, and the symptoms become more severe. The dog may have difficulty standing or walking, and their hind limbs may become weak and uncoordinated. The dog may also show signs of muscle atrophy, and their hind legs may appear thinner than the front legs. The dog may also begin to lose control of their bladder and bowel movements.

The Advanced Stages of Degenerative Myelopathy

In the advanced stages of DM, the dog becomes completely paralyzed in the hind limbs and loses control of their bladder and bowel movements. At this stage, the dog is unable to walk or stand and may require assistance with moving around or going to the bathroom. The dog may also develop pressure sores from lying in one position for extended periods.

Diagnosing Degenerative Myelopathy

Diagnosing DM involves a combination of physical examination, neurological testing, and diagnostic imaging. The veterinarian may perform a physical examination to assess the dog’s gait, reflexes, and muscle tone. They may also perform neurological testing to evaluate the dog’s nerve function and assess their response to stimuli. Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI may also be used to evaluate the spinal cord and rule out other conditions.

Treatment Options for Degenerative Myelopathy

Currently, there is no cure for DM, and treatment focuses on managing the symptoms and improving the dog’s quality of life. Treatment options may include physical therapy, exercise, medication, and assistive devices such as wheelchairs or harnesses. Physical therapy and exercise can help maintain muscle strength and prevent muscle atrophy. Medications such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatories can help manage pain and inflammation. Assistive devices such as wheelchairs or harnesses can help the dog move around independently and reduce the risk of pressure sores.

Caring for Dogs with Degenerative Myelopathy

Caring for a dog with DM involves providing them with a comfortable and safe environment and monitoring their condition closely. The dog may require assistance with moving around, going to the bathroom, and managing their pain. The owner may also need to make modifications to the home environment, such as installing ramps or providing non-slip surfaces. Regular veterinary check-ups are also essential to monitor the dog’s condition and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Can Degenerative Myelopathy be Prevented?

DM is a hereditary disease, and there is currently no way to prevent it. However, breeders can reduce the risk of passing on the disease by screening breeding dogs for the SOD1 gene mutation. Early detection and management of DM can also help improve the dog’s quality of life and slow down the disease’s progression.

Conclusion: Understanding and Managing Degenerative Myelopathy

DM is a debilitating disease that affects the spinal cord of dogs, primarily in older dogs and certain breeds. The disease progresses gradually and causes weakness and eventually paralysis in the hind limbs. While there is no cure for DM, treatment options focus on managing the symptoms and improving the dog’s quality of life. Caring for a dog with DM involves providing them with a comfortable and safe environment, monitoring their condition closely, and making modifications to the home environment. Early detection and management of DM can help improve the dog’s quality of life and slow down the disease’s progression.