Canine degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease of the spinal cord. This has been identified in 40+ breeds; however, the top 3 breeds most commonly diagnosed with DM are the Boxer, German Shepherd, and Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
In this section, we'll take a closer look at degenerative myelopathy, and then meet an exceptional Boxer diagnosed with this disease.
What this is:
Canine degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive disease, meaning that the ailment worsens and/or spreads over time. Unfortunately, this disease is also incurable. There are medications to help a dog be more comfortable, and to treat secondary conditions; however, as of now there is no treatment to reverse or stop this.
The 'myelo' in the name refers to myelin, a part of the spinal cord in which certain neurons are encased in a sheath. It is thought that a dog's immune system attacks this part of the spinal cord, resulting in damaged and then broken communication between nerves in the lower body and the brain.
Onset:
Age of onset is typically between 7 and 14 years old.
Symptoms:
This often begins with muscle weakness and lack of coordination of the hind legs. The dog may stumble or have an awkward gait. It's common for dogs to 'knuckle over' or drag their rear paws.
As this progresses, the rear legs begin to buckle until the point of paralysis and complete loss of use. The pelvic area is also affected, causing incontinence.
Unfortunately, the next phase affects the front legs. This generally occurs 6 to 12 months after the hind legs are affected. Eventually, respiratory muscles may be affected as well.
It should be noted that the actual disease is considered pain-free. Perhaps the one saving grace.
The full list of symptoms, in order, is as follows:
- Dragging of rear paws
- Knuckling-over on rear toes
- Development of sores on top of rear paws
- Abnormal wear of the rear toenails
- Weakness in the hind legs
- Difficulty walking, rising, and jumping
- Ataxia (problems balancing, uncontrolled movements)
- Muscle atrophy
- Incontinence
- Partial and then complete paralysis of the hind legs
- Followed by partial and then complete paralysis of the front legs
- This can progress to trouble chewing and swallowing, and difficulty breathing
Diagnosis:
DM is normally diagnosed by ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms, and via visual cues based on exact mobility issues.
There is also a relatively new DNA test that looks for a mutation of the SOD1 gene. Dogs with one abnormal gene are thought to be carriers (can pass this on, but do not develop the disease) and those with two abnormal genes are at high risk.
This can confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment:
There is no cure, treatment, or medication to directly treat DM. However, dogs may be prescribed certain supplements that can aid in a variety of ways including joint health. Anti-inflammations may be given, as well as medication to help control incontinence issues.
If a dog's body is compensating for the loss of mobility, this can cause radiating discomfort, and there may be sores due to inability to move positioning when resting or sleeping. Therefore, if needed, pain medication can be given as well.
Prognosis:
Survival rate can be as short as 6 months or as long as 3+ years.
Next, we'll meet a pretty incredible Boxer dog that has been diagnosed with DM, and thanks to his loving family, is doing remarkably well.