Canine Hydrotherapy for Spinal Stenosis and IVDD

Why Hydrotherapy Can Benefit Dogs with Spinal Stenosis and Intervertebral Disk Disease

The typical dog owner might be unaware of this, but spinal stenosis and IVDD can affect dogs just as much as they can affect humans. Just as in humans, spinal stenosis/IVDD can cause nerve damage, back pain and sometimes even paralysis. There are a variety of reasons why dogs develop spinal stenosis/IVDD, some including congenital bone abnormalities, spinal infection, tissue disorder, spinal trauma, side effects from medication or inflammation. Specific breeds are also a factor when it comes to higher risks and what to expect.

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis and IVDD

• Poor Mobility

• Changes in bowels

• Changes in bladder function

• Severe Fatigue

• Pain or Discomfort

• Difficulty Standing or Lying

• Reluctant to go for a Walk

• Decrease in Play or Activity

• Change in Gait

• Tripping

Breeds at Risk for Spinal Stenosis and IVDD

• German Shepherds

• Beagles

• French Bulldogs

• Dachshunds

• Bulldogs

• Corgis

• Pugs

• Bassett Hounds

• ShihTzu

• Pekingese

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Treating Spinal Stenosis in Canines

Once Spinal Stenosis is confirmed in a canine, there are various treatment options available, which depend on the severity of the disease. Dogs with mild stenosis are usually recommended rest as well as some anti-inflammatory medications. Dogs that have a more progressed stenosis will be given the option of surgery for lumbosacral stenosis or spinal fusion with decompression. Unfortunately, dogs who are diagnosed with severe spinal stenosis and who have intense symptoms are more likely to still have symptoms after treatment. With this disease being degenerative, spinal stenosis requires a healthy and healing lifestyle for your dog, incorporating supplements like joint care, anti-inflammatory herbs or even CBD oil. Here at Dip’n Dogs, I am a firm believer in organic and holistic health. Many of my clients incorporate CBD oil in their dog’s everyday life for various reasons, with inflammation and pain being on top. Make sure when you are looking for any supplements for your dog, you are finding top quality products that are safe and effective for him/her.

Hydrotherapy Treatment for Dogs with Spinal Issues

This is where hydrotherapy can come into play. Hydrotherapy can benefit canine’s in any stage of Spinal Stenosis. The buoyancy and warmth of the water takes all pressure off of their joints and spine while ensuring an overall better quality of life. Hydrotherapy swimming allows canine’s to stretch and move beyond a range of motion that is not achievable outside of water. The water also acts as a organic resistant which helps in strengthening muscles. It’s important however that you find a hydrotherapist who has the proper training and certifications. Unlike putting your dog in a backyard pool, a hydrotherapist knows how to exercise your dog in the water for maximum benefit. For an example, a hydrotherapist knows if one leg is lagging behind the other in it’s recovery, so we focus the session on working the weaker leg. The goal of hydrotherapy in treating any spinal condition is to rebuild or maintain muscle strength and keep flexibility and overall function. This will lead to a faster and efficient recovery process. A side benefit from water therapy is that it also improves canines cardiovascular system and respiratory function.