Species: Dog
Condition: Atlantoaxial Subluxation
Organ System: Cardiovascular
Toy breeds have higher risks of suffering from atlanto-axial subluxation. Subluxation refers to the partial subluxation of the bones in a specific joint. The abnormality is primarily seen in young dogs where cervical spinal cord compression often results in neck pain and neurological abnormalities in all the dog’s limbs. Possible causes include hypoplosia of the dens that results in the shortening of the axis leading to instability of the articulation between the atlas (first cervical bone) and axis (second cervical bone). Fracture of the dens or damage of the ligaments that support the vertebrae can also be possible causes of atlantoaxial subluxation in other dog breeds.
Breeds exposed to Atlantoaxial Subluxation – Research Reference
Deerhound Cross – (Kinzel et al. 2003)
Deerhound – (Kinzel et al. 2003)
Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine
To learn more about Atlantoaxial Subluxation 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.
