How to Care for Your Dog with Spina Bifida

It can be life-changing to know that our furry family members are experiencing something painful that will hinder them from doing things they love like taking walks to the park, and running and playing. Among the many spinal illnesses that affect your dogs, Spina Bifida is one of them.

"After pups are born, you should constantly be checking for any abnormalities as they grow up."

Here's a thorough discussion on what Spina Bifida is about, symptoms, diagnosis, and proper management so that you and your dog can still live a fun, happy life.

What is Spina Bifida in Dogs?

Spina Bifida is a spinal illness in dogs. According to the exerts at UC Davis Veterinary Medicine, Spina bifida arises due to the deformity of the spinal cord and/or vertebrae during a mother dog’s pregnancy. The spinal cord is protected and surrounded by the vertebrae of the spinal column. If during the fetal development the vertebrae doesn't completely grow around the spinal cord, a part of the spinal cord is exposed. It strikingly creates impact on the quality of a dog’s life. They have difficulties walking, or cannot walk at all, and are incontinent, making them susceptible to endless cycles of skin and urinary tract infections.

Unfortunately, the life expectancy of a dog with Spina Bifida is not ideal. Many would consider dogs with Spina Bifida not to be ideal pets because they require extensive management. Unfortunately, the level of management is not feasible for most pet parents. So, sadly, many are euthanized at a young age. However, there are many steps you can take as the pet parent to take care of your dog with Spina Bifida. Learn how to take care of your dog with Spina Bifida, how it is diagnosed, Spina Bifida symptoms in dogs, and more in this article.

How is Spina Bifida Diagnosed?

Spina Bifida is a congenital abnormality. After pups are born, breeders should be constantly checking for any abnormalities as they grow up. Usually when the puppy has Spina Bifida, they crawl or walk differently compared to their other littermates.

The veterinarian will record the history of the puppy’s environment and their development. The pup will also undergo a series of examinations both neurological and physical. Typically, radiographs and myelography can help confirm the diagnosis of spina bifida in dogs. Your vet may also require a CT scan.

How Will I Know if is Spina Bifida?

Even if Spina Bifida does not worsen as your puppy grows older, the symptoms of having this disease is more than enough to make it hard for the pup to live a quality life. Some dogs don't develop signs, others do. Here are some of the signs to look for, according to Vetstream.

Note: Some of these clinical signs can be associated with other diseases too which is why consultation with a neurologist and diagnostics are recommended.

How to Take Care of a Dog with Spina Bifida: Treatment and Management

Generally, there is no known treatment for dogs with Spina Bifida. Depending on the severity of the dog's condition, euthanasia may be recommended. Some puppies can experience a great deal of discomfort and pain that will severely impact their qaulity of life.. For some who don't have severe cases, you can do some things to improve your furbaby's quality of life.

"Dog diapers and Pawtect® Pads are such great help in keeping your dog comfortable and your home clean since dogs with Spina Bifida are known to also suffer from urinary and fecal incontinence."