Neuro Corner Answers

Dr. Andrew Isaacs
DVM Diplomate ACVIM (Neurology)
Dogwood Veterinary Referral Center

Primary interests include intervertebral disc disease, seizure management, luxations/fractures of the spine, and surgery for brain tumors

Question

RENAE ASKS:

I just lost my best friend, Chewy, a long hair brindle standard, to Myelomalacia 2 months ago. The vet wouldn’t really give me the time to explain how it may have happened or if I did something wrong, or can do something to prevent it from happening again. I have 2 other doxies, is there anything you can tell me about how to prevent something lie this happening again?  Thank you so much!

ANSWER

Renae, 
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of Chewy. 

Probably the greatest factors leading to myelomalacia is the intensity and speed of the concussive injury that occurs when the disk ruptures.  Unfortunately, there is no way to modify how the disks rupture other than lifestyle changes that decrease the higher impact activities (jumping on/off sofas/beds, and up/down stairs).

Also, unfortunately there is no way to make a dachshund not a dachshund and the inherent personality that goes along with them.

So, to summarize-— do not feel bad, there is nothing that you did or did not do to cause the myelomalacia.  With your other dogs the most important thing is to minimize/discourage high impact activities within reason.

Take care,
Andrew