I’ll be candid: Writing about degenerative myelopathy in dogs (DM) isn’t what I’d call enjoyable. In fact, it doesn’t even make the list of “fun to write” topics. But sometimes, we’re faced with subjects that are crucial to address. So, here we are. And this is vital.
Why DM? Well, for starters, it’s a distressing and overwhelming diagnosis. I aim to shed light on its harsh realities and offer some guidance on making the disease’s progression more manageable, even though it will never truly be easy.
Another reason is personal. Regrettably, our family is encountering DM for the second time. My beloved Emmett succumbed to DM roughly five years ago, and recently, Cooper received a probable diagnosis. I’ve immersed myself in research, consulted experts, and gained extensive knowledge. I want to share what I’ve learned in the hope that it might assist someone else.
A brief disclaimer: I’m not a veterinarian, vet tech, or therapist – just a writer, researcher, and devoted dog parent. Everything here is purely for informational purposes. Always, and without exception, consult your vet for guidance!
So, Let’s Begin: What Is Degenerative Myelopathy?
Enveloping the spinal cords of dogs, as well as ours, is a substance known as white matter. Its primary function is to transmit and process nerve signals up and down the spinal cord. DM arises when this white matter starts deteriorating. Initially, DM often gets mistaken for osteoarthritis because the early signs closely resemble it. However, as DM advances, the spinal cord’s condition worsens, and dogs eventually experience hind-end paralysis. This condition is most commonly seen in older dogs, typically around the age of nine. The prognosis typically ranges from six months to a year after diagnosis. If caught early, it might extend to two years.
The closest human comparison to DM is ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
Dog Breeds Prone to Degenerative Myelopathy
While German Shepherd Dogs are the most commonly affected breed, numerous others can fall victim to DM. Below is a non-exhaustive list of dog breeds prone to this condition based on clinical data:
- American Eskimo Dogs
- Bernese Mountain Dogs
- Borzoi
- Boxer
- Cardigan Welsh Corgi
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
- Chesapeake Bay Retriever
- German Shepherd Dog
- Golden Retriever
- Great Pyrenees
- Irish Setters
- Kerry Blue Terriers
- Pembroke Welsh Corgis
- Poodle
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Shetland Sheepdog
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers
- Wire Fox Terrier
However, it’s worth noting that breeds not typically associated with DM can still carry the genetic mutation responsible for it. For example, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, although not on the common list, have been found to carry the SOD1 gene mutation linked to DM through genetic research.
If you’re unsure about your dog’s breed and its susceptibility to DM, a quick online search combining your dog’s breed name with “Degenerative Myelopathy” can provide valuable insights.
What Causes DM?
Unfortunately, the precise cause remains unclear. Research points toward a genetic mutation, notably the SOD1 gene. However, some dogs possessing two copies of the SOD1 gene haven’t developed DM. To mitigate the risk of passing on the disease to offspring, breeders can opt for a screening test for the SOD1 gene.
Symptoms of DM in Dogs
Now that we have a grasp of DM as spinal cord white matter degeneration and an understanding of which breeds are more vulnerable, how do we recognize its presence? Initial signs often include a swaying in the rear when the dog is stationary or difficulty getting up. However, these symptoms can be subtle and develop gradually. Keep an eye out for these common indications of DM in dogs:
- Swaying in the hind end while standing
- Easily falling over when nudged (please refrain from pushing your dog)
- Paw knuckling – the hind paws curl under, causing the toes to drag upside down
- Feet scraping on the ground during walks, potentially leading to unusual toenail wear patterns
- Difficulty walking or, in advanced stages, total inability to walk
- Struggles to rise from a sitting or lying position
- In later stages, hind-end paralysis and incontinence are common.
Our Experience: With Emmett, we first noticed knuckling, where his hind toes would turn under while walking. As his condition worsened, he encountered walking issues and developed incontinence. Notably, he didn’t exhibit the typical swaying or wobbling seen in DM cases. Ultimately, Emmett couldn’t stand up unassisted or walk more than a few feet without support. We’ll delve into helpful tools shortly.
For Cooper, we initially suspected arthritis due to his hip discomfort. His slow, stiff rising from rest led us to consider arthritis. At 12 years old, Cooper, a lifelong distance runner, seemed a likely candidate. However, arthritis treatments provided no relief. Subsequently, X-rays revealed no arthritis, resulting in a probable DM diagnosis. Notably, there is no specific test to diagnose DM. So, if your dog displays any of these symptoms, consult a vet to rule out other conditions like arthritis before considering DM as the diagnosis.
Treatment for DM
Let’s address the harsh reality upfront: There is no treatment for DM. The disease will progress relentlessly, and there’s currently no means to halt it – a disheartening fact. I empathize with what you and your dog are going through; it’s incredibly challenging and unfortunate.
However, despite this painful truth, there are steps you can take to enhance your dog’s quality of life. Remember, the following suggestions are anecdotal rather than clinical. They aim to provide support rather than a cure.
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, “It is important to avoid obesity, so diet and exercise (walking and swimming) are vital components of treatment. The goal is to maintain the dog on its feet for as long as possible. Physical therapy has been shown to prolong quality of life and preserve muscle mass. Any dog with DM should be kept as physically active as possible for as long as possible. The progression of clinical signs has been shown to be slowed with a combination of epsilon-aminocaproic acid, N-acetylcysteine, prednisone, vitamins B, C, and E, and exercise therapy.”
I’d like to add that alongside physical therapy and exercise, we sought acupuncture for Emmett. Although I lack clinical data to support this, I can confidently assert that acupuncture provided significant relief to Emmett.
How to Support Your Dog with Degenerative Myelopathy
Our experiences have equipped us with valuable insights for Cooper’s journey with DM. The key focus is on providing support to help your dog maintain mobility and stability, alongside troubleshooting ideas. Remember, veterinary bills can accumulate, so don’t feel pressured to implement every suggestion. Instead, evaluate which ones will best support your dog’s specific symptoms and enhance their quality of life.
Moreover, consider joining your local Buy Nothing group on Facebook. You can often find these items for free there. Additionally, local Goodwill or thrift stores, Craigslist, and Freecycle may offer free or discounted items.
Here are some supportive measures that can aid your dog through DM:
1. Ramps or Pet Steps: Depending on your dog’s size and disease progression, ramps or pet steps can provide access to your bed, the couch, and the car. While the suggested ramp is an excellent choice, there are more affordable options available, such as this or these pet steps. Ensure the steps are adequately sized for your dog.
2. Rugs: Rugs are crucial, especially on wood or tile floors. To prevent slipping, rugs offer essential traction. Check your neighborhood’s Buy Nothing group for free rugs, or explore Goodwill, thrift stores, Craigslist, and Freecycle. A long runner rug at the back door can provide a slip-resistant surface for your dog. Look for washable rugs like Ruggable for added convenience.
3. Non-Slip Mats: Strategically placed non-slip mats can be instrumental in ensuring your dog’s stability. Use them in areas where your dog frequently walks, eats, drinks, or climbs stairs. These mats can often be found on clearance at stores like Target.
4. Toe Grips: ToeGrips are small yet effective bands that fit onto your dog’s nails to enhance traction. They were immensely helpful during the early stages of DM for Emmett. While you can find them on Amazon, the ToeGrips website offers comprehensive information.
5. Boots: Boots can provide additional support when DM affects your dog’s ability to walk. Brands like Kurgo and Ruffwear offer quality options. Some dogs may only require two boots for their back legs.
Remember, the goal is to provide your dog with comfort and support as they navigate DM’s challenges. Each measure contributes to enhancing your dog’s quality of life during this difficult time.
