Spinal Cord Trauma in Dogs: When to Seek Vet Help

The spinal cord is essential in dogs for communication between the brain and body. It is safely housed within the bones of the neck and spine.

However, it is not immune to damage. Problems with the spinal cord can cause sudden and dramatic symptoms that would be worrying for any owner to witness.

Whenever it is suspected that there is involvement of the spinal cord, it is wise to seek a veterinary opinion. For many dog's, interventions such as pain relief, physiotherapy, and/or surgery can make a world of difference.

What is Spinal Cord Trauma in Dogs?

Dogs with an injured spinal cord usually present with both pain and neurological symptoms.

What Causes Spinal Cord Injuries in Dogs?

The spinal cord usually escapes unharmed when there is minor trauma, but more serious incidents can cause significant problems.

We can also see a damaged spinal cord due to conditions including intervertebral disc disease and embolisms.

Road Accidents and Blunt Trauma

Any forceful impact can break bones, including the vertebrae that house the spinal cord. It is even possible for the spinal cord to be transected (broken in two) if hit hard enough.

Falls or High-Impact Injuries

Similarly, a dog that falls from a height is at risk of spinal cord injury. This is especially true if they land awkwardly on their back onto a hard surface like concrete.

Dog Attacks or Bite Wounds

Less commonly, a dog bite may cause dislocation or fracture of a vertebrae, potentially compressing the spinal cord. This is more likely if a small dog is picked up and shaken by a larger breed.

There is an additional concern about bacteria in the dog’s mouth introducing an infection.

Degenerative or Pre-Existing Spine Conditions

Perhaps a more familiar scenario to many owners would be a degenerative condition, such as intervertebral disc disease.

One North Carolina study found that 72% of dogs who presented to the emergency clinic with weakness or paralysis were found to have IVDD. French Bulldogs and Dachshunds are the poster children for this devastating condition.

Degenerative myelopathy is another consideration; a progressive neurodegenerative disease of the spinal cord that causes a progressive weakness in the hind limbs and paw dragging. It is seen most often in the German Shepherd.

What Are the Signs of Spinal Cord Trauma in Dogs?

Signs will vary depending on where along the spinal cord it is damaged, and to what extent.

Weakness or Paralysis

Commonly, the dog has difficulty moving their legs and coordinating their movements. A lesion affecting the upper spinal cord can affect all four limbs, while one below the shoulders may only affect the back legs.

Pain, Crying, or Reluctance to Move

Pain is frequently very intense for these dogs, leading to additional symptoms including yelping, difficulty moving, shaking, seizures, and soiling themselves.

Loss of Sensation

Some dogs will be unable to feel their toes being pressed. They may fail to respond to a stimulus that should elicit pain, such as a sharp pinch with a pair of forceps.

When a dog lacks any sort of pain response, this indicates a poorer prognosis for recovery and a more severe spinal injury.

Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control

As the spinal cord carries the nerves that control toileting, they are often going to ‘fail’ after an injury. This can lead to incontinence or difficulty voiding, depending on the location of the injury within the spinal cord.

How Do You Know if a Dog’s Spinal Injury is an Emergency?

There will be some ‘red flag’ signs that should alert you to a more serious injury, requiring emergency vet care.

Sudden Paralysis or Inability to Stand

A dog who struggles to get up or walk about is always one that should see an emergency vet right away.

While this won’t be indicative of spinal cord trauma on every occasion, and can be seen in cases of leg fractures, shock or internal bleeding, it is always worth investigating urgently.

Severe Pain or Collapse After an Accident

Signs of severe pain vary. While some dogs may yelp and squeal, others will be completely quiet.

Many dogs lie still and won’t move, while others panic and may try to run away. If you’re concerned your dog is in pain, this is reason enough to have them checked out.

Changes in Breathing or Consciousness

Monitor for changes in breathing, including deep, shallow, or laboured breathing. Do also monitor your dog’s alertness and their response to the environment.

Any obvious lethargy or loss of consciousness could indicate a more serious underlying issue.

What Should You Do if You Suspect a Spinal Injury in Your Dog?

It is important not to panic and to safely transport your dog to the vet, where they can be assessed and cared for.

How to Safely Move a Dog With a Possible Spine Injury

You’ll want to avoid excessive movement or pressure on the dog’s spine. Ideally, transport your dog so they are lying flat on a firm surface, such as a stretcher or large board.

A towel held firmly between two people may also be an option, especially for smaller dogs.

Should You Take Your Dog to the Emergency Vet Immediately?

You absolutely want to have your pet assessed right away, to determine the extent of their injury, offer pain relief and provide additional supportive care.

Time is of the essence for many dogs, as the longer spinal cord compression is ongoing, the poorer their prognosis.

How Do Veterinarians Diagnose Spinal Cord Trauma?

Your vet will want to know exactly what has happened and should also be told about your dog’s medical history.

Physical and Neurological Examination

They’ll examine them from nose to tail, assessing their mobility and checking whether their reflexes remain intact and whether they have normal sensation.

As well as checking for signs of spinal cord trauma, your vet will be determining if your dog has any other medical issues, such as internal bleeding or low blood pressure.

Diagnostic Imaging

Imaging tools, including X-rays, CT scans and MRIs, can be incredibly useful for assessing the vertebral column and the spinal cord.

Myelography (injecting dye into the spinal cord) may be used in order to further assess the severity of any spinal cord compression.

What Treatments Are Available for Spinal Cord Injuries in Dogs?

Each dog is treated as an individual, with their plan tailored to their needs. While some may only require a quick check over, others may remain in the hospital for days or even weeks.

Stabilisation and Emergency Care

The priority will be in stabilising the dog and ensuring they are coping well after any spinal injury. This can include providing life-saving therapy such as oxygen, intravenous fluids or even a blood transfusion.

Importantly, any trauma involving the cardiovascular or respiratory system should be addressed as a priority.

Medication to Reduce Inflammation and Pain

Dogs will need anti-inflammatory medicine alongside strong pain relief. This may include a combination of medicines such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, opioids and muscle relaxants.

Surgery for Severe Spinal Damage

For some, surgery will be the treatment of choice. Those with luxated or fractured vertebrae or who have obvious neurological deficits will usually benefit from surgery.

Can Dogs Recover From Spinal Cord Trauma?

Many dogs can heal from spinal cord trauma, often making full recoveries.

Factors That Affect Recovery

Those who have experienced severe trauma, who presented without deep pain sensation or who were paralysed, will carry a worse prognosis.

The cause of the spinal cord damage will also be a factor. Those caused by IVDD carry a good prognosis when treated promptly.

Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy

Although many dogs will be put on strict cage rest for several weeks, once more stable, physiotherapy and rehabilitation are important to help the dog regain strength and mobility.

Physiotherapy can include range-of-motion exercises and hydrotherapy.

Get Emergency Vet Care for Your Dog

Contact us at any time of the day or night to organise immediate care for your dog. Our team has extensive experience in spinal trauma and is here to help.

Spinal Cord Trauma in Dogs FAQs

Can a Dog Recover From Spinal Cord Trauma?

Dogs can make a full recovery. This is especially true for milder to moderate injuries, and when veterinary care is sought promptly.

Should I Move My Dog if I Suspect a Spinal Injury?

You will need to move your dog so they can be brought to the vet clinic. Do so gently, supporting their body and keeping their spine straight.

How Quickly Should a Dog With a Spinal Injury See a Vet?

Time is of the essence; bring your dog to the nearest emergency vet clinic as soon as possible.

Can a Dog Walk Again After Paralysis From a Spinal Injury?

Some dogs will be able to regain their mobility, yes. However, this will depend on factors including the extent of the spinal cord damage and the therapy provided.