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Articulares y huesos

Discospondylitis

An infection of the intervertebral disc and the neighbouring vertebrae. It is painful and, if it progresses, can compress the spinal cord.

Severe🐕 Dogs

This may be a veterinary emergency

URGENT if there is severe back pain with fever, or weakness of the legs. Early treatment prevents spinal cord damage.

Symptoms to watch for

  • Severe back pain
  • Reluctance to move, hunched posture
  • Fever
  • Lethargy and loss of appetite
  • In advanced cases: weakness or paralysis of the legs

Causes

An infection (often bacterial) reaches the vertebral disc through the bloodstream, from an infection elsewhere in the body (urinary, dental, a wound).

Diagnosis

X-rays or an MRI of the spine, plus blood tests and cultures to identify the bacterium.

Treatment

Antibiotics for a prolonged period (weeks or months), pain control, and rest. Cases with spinal cord compression may require surgery.

Prevention

Treat infections in other parts of the body properly so that they do not spread.

When should you see the vet?

URGENT if there is severe back pain with fever, or weakness of the legs. Early treatment prevents spinal cord damage.

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.