IVDD dogs can become Spinal Walkers

Otis leads an active life in his dog wheelchair

We always expect dogs with paralysis due to intervertebral disc disease to improve over time with the aid of a dog wheelchair. Our carts support on the pelvic floor and being built custom, and close to their body, the siderails keeps their spines in good alignment, minimizing ataxia and wobbliness. Dachsunds maintain good core stength because there are no girth straps encircling the spine behind the shoulders, and the welded saddle gives their pelvises and rear legs the consistent support necessary to expedite healing.

Nerves regenerate very slowly, but the phenomenon of "spinal walking" as shown in this video is a fairly common "miracle". Our first dog in wheelchair, Buddha, a 10 year old Doberman, became a spinal walker after only 5 months of cart use, going from total paralysis to using the cart as a walker, to finally walking on her own. Daisy, our dachshund with 4 herniated discs, became a spinal walker, but never regained her ability to stand without the assistance of the cart. However, she used her legs for propulsion and regained proprioception of her rear feet.

Healing takes time, and it is always a miracle. All we do is provide pets with the means to enjoy life while time does its work to heal.

Watch these two French bulldogs who have used a cart to help their rehab:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oo1tt6PJZfM&t=7s

Posted: to Eddie's News on Fri, Apr 22, 2011
Updated: Fri, Jan 18, 2019