IVDD in dog.

Dr. Marie replied:

This certainly does sound like it could be a back issue and yes, IVDD is quite likely.

This is a tough question for me because I cannot legally advise you on medication dosages for your dog.

I would generally, however, not use just Tramadol to treat IVDD. Tramadol is a pain reliever but it is not an anti-inflammatory drug. If there is IVDD it is usually quite important to get an anti-inflammatory on board.

What happens with IVDD is that there is inflammation around one of the discs between the vertebrae (back bones). In some cases, there can be actual disc material that pushes up against the spinal cord. But, usually it is inflammation around the disc that is pushing up against the cord. It is very important to relieve that inflammation.

I will generally prescribe either an NSAID like Metacam for mild cases of IVDD or if it is moderate to severe I will use a steroid like Prednisone or dexamethasone.

If you can swing it at all, I would highly advise a visit to your vet as soon as possible. In cases like this, often if we can get the proper medications on board quick enough this should be all that we need to fix the problem. In some cases, if we wait too long then the disc inflammation can progress to disc protrusion and we can end up with lifelong problems including paralysis.

When you go to the vet's let them know that you are on a tight budget. They may suggest xrays, but if you tell them that your finances are tight you might be able to skip those. In most cases the cost of medications to treat IVDD are not terribly expensive.

Until you can get to the vet, make sure that Basil does no jumping or stairs and that he keeps as quiet as possible. If you can determine where on his back he is sore, applying an ice pack for 10 minutes a few times tonight can help. (The most common area to be sore is right at the end of the rib cage.)

I really hope he does ok!

Dr. Marie.


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Dr. Marie replied:

You're very welcome! Feel free to post a reply again if you have more questions after your appointment.