Senior Dog Paralyzed: Effective Care & Recovery Tips

Spinal injuries are a common ailment among aging dogs, often occurring in the lumbar region, but can also affect the cervical spine. Symptoms include a wobbly gait, dragging of the hind legs, abdominal pain, and difficulty with urination and defecation. Xray images often reveal spinal deformities. The primary cause of spinal injuries in dogs is a nutritional metabolic disorder. Many pets have an imbalanced diet throughout their lives, particularly those that have been fed primarily animal liver. This imbalance in calcium, phosphorus, vitamins, and other nutrients can disrupt the internal environment of the body, leading to metabolic diseases. These conditions can cause osteoporosis, osteomyelitis, and myelitis, as well as joint issues, joint swelling, widespread pain, and spinal injuries that can lead to hind limb mobility problems and even paralysis.

Treatment:

Approximately 95% of spinal injuries in dogs occur in the lumbar region. Treatment focuses on inflammation reduction, edema control, pain management, and local injections. Electromagnetic therapy is applied to the affected area for a course of 7 to 15 days. Dogs that seek treatment promptly have a 90% chance of recovery and maintaining their ability to walk. After improvement, longterm oral medications for joint protection and treatment can be prescribed.

For the treatment, a combination of dexamethasone and vitamin B1 is administered via the Baihui point injection, followed by a fiveday course. Penicillin is administered intramuscularly for five days as well. A 10minute massage of the lumbar and hind limb muscles is recommended daily, along with assistance in standing.

Administer 10 mL of calcium gluconate injection twice daily; one tablet each of vitamin B complex and vitamin C three times daily. Ensure the dog receives at least 0.5 hours of sunlight daily and moderate exercise. Increase interaction with the dog, gently petting to reduce fear and provide careful, compassionate care.