Species: Dog
Condition: Lumbosacral Disease
Organ System: Nervous/sensory
It is a condition which is also known as lumbo-sacral instability or cauda equine, and frequently affects middle-aged or older large breed dogs. However, it can also affect medium-sized breeds. The neurologic signs are caused by compression of the nerves due to instability of the lumbo-sacral space leading to the thickening and herniation of the intervertebral disc, and narrowing of the vertebral canal. Affected dogs have a history of back pain and reluctance to jump, run, and squat. As the problem progresses, the compression of the nerves worsen and the dog suffers from chronic pain and begin to lose neurologic function, until there is muscle atrophy in the rear limbs. Conservative treatment involves the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and an exercise regimen. Surgical correction is usually indicated in severe cases.
Breeds exposed to Lumbosacral Disease – Research Reference
Gordon Setter Cross – (Yaeger et al. 2000)
Gordon Setter – (Yaeger et al. 2000)
Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine
To learn more about Lumbosacral Disease or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.
This information is accurate as at May 2014 and is subject to change without notice.
For Petmed Pet Health Insurance – pre-existing condition exclusion applies. Annual Benefit Limits and excess amounts vary based on pet health insurance plans.
