Early signs include back or neck pain, reluctance to move, wobbliness, or a hunched posture. Dogs may also show signs of weakness or knuckling in their paws. If you notice these symptoms, acting quickly is crucial. At Butterwick, we work alongside your vet to develop a rehabilitation plan, often starting with pain management and gentle therapeutic exercises, to prevent further deterioration and promote healing.

Breeds with long backs and short legs, such as Dachshunds, Beagles, and Corgis, are particularly prone to IVDD, along with older large-breed dogs like Labradors and German Shepherds. If you own one of these breeds, we can help you proactively support their spine health through conditioning exercises and hydrotherapy, reducing the risk of IVDD or slowing its progression.

A veterinarian diagnoses IVDD through physical and neurological exams, combined with advanced imaging like MRIs or CT scans to locate affected discs. Once diagnosed, Butterwick Animal Rehab can play a pivotal role in your dog’s journey by offering non-invasive therapies, such as laser therapy and hydrotherapy, to complement your vet’s treatment plan and help your dog regain mobility.

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may respond to strict rest and medication, while severe cases may require surgery. At Butterwick, we excel in providing post-surgery rehabilitation and conservative management plans that focus on reducing pain, improving strength, and promoting healing. Our personalised approach ensures that your dog receives the right balance of care to recover effectively.

Yes, many dogs with mild to moderate IVDD recover with conservative management, which includes pain management, rest, and physiotherapy. Our team at Butterwick is experienced in crafting non-invasive recovery plans tailored to your dog’s condition, combining targeted exercises with advanced therapies like PMFT and massage to reduce pain and rebuild strength.

Recovery times vary based on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. Conservative management can take weeks to months, while post-surgical recovery may involve weeks to a few months of rehabilitation. At Butterwick, our expertise in physiotherapy and hydrotherapy accelerates healing by focusing on gentle, progressive exercises that rebuild strength and mobility without causing further stress to your dog’s spine.

At home, follow your vet’s recommendations for rest and pain management. You can also work closely with Butterwick to support your dog’s recovery. We’ll teach you simple, effective exercises and provide advice on creating a safe environment for your dog, such as using ramps and supportive bedding. Our guidance empowers you to play an active role in your dog’s healing journey.

While genetic predisposition is a major factor, you can take steps to lower the risk. Regular low-impact exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding activities that stress the spine, like jumping, are key. At Butterwick, we offer preventive physiotherapy sessions that strengthen your dog’s core muscles and improve flexibility, helping to protect their spine.

The prognosis depends on the severity of the condition and how quickly treatment begins. Dogs with mild symptoms often recover well with conservative care, while surgery can be life-changing for dogs with severe cases. At Butterwick, we focus on giving every dog the best possible outcome through a combination of physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and personalised care. With our support, your dog can experience a meaningful improvement in their quality of life, and many return to activities they love.