Watching your dog wobble, yelp in pain, or suddenly collapse is every dog parent's worst nightmare. These signs often point to spinal issues like Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) — a condition especially common in breeds like Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, and Corgis.
When it strikes, you’re often given a stark choice: surgery or conservative care. But which one is actually better?
Understanding IVDD and Spinal Injuries in Dogs
IVDD occurs when the cushioning discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column bulge or burst into the spinal cord space. This can lead to pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis. Spinal injuries can range in severity, from mild pain to complete loss of mobility.
The Two Common Approaches: Surgery vs. Conservative Care
Let’s break down the two options:
1. Surgery
-
Involves a procedure like a hemilaminectomy to remove disc material and relieve spinal cord pressure.
-
Often recommended for severe cases (Grade 5) or dogs with no deep pain sensation.
-
Immediate decompression of the spinal cord.
-
Expensive: often up to $20,000+
-
Requires general anaesthetic, hospitalisation, and post-surgical rehab.
-
Risks of surgery and anaesthesia in older dogs or those with other health issues.
2. Conservative Treatment
-
Includes crate rest, anti-inflammatory medications, pain relief, acupuncture, laser therapy, and natural spinal support supplements.
-
No surgery required — less invasive and more accessible.
-
Recovery can be slower but still effective.
-
Requires consistency and a well-planned approach.
-
Significantly less expensive.
What the Research Says
Here’s the surprising part:
-
For dogs classified as Grade 4 (paralysed but still have sensation in their legs), 96% recovered with just rest and meds — the same recovery rate as dogs who had surgery.
-
For Grade 5 dogs (completely paralysed), the recovery rate was:
-
48% with conservative care
-
52% with surgery
-
That’s a difference of just 4%.
But when natural therapies like acupuncture, infrared laser therapy, and high-quality natural supplements were added to conservative care, recovery rates for the severe cases increased dramatically — up to 80–90% and up to 98% for the lower grades.
So Which One Should You Choose?
It depends on your dog’s condition and how quickly you act. Here’s a quick summary:
Surgery may be necessary if:
-
Your dog has no deep pain sensation for over 24–48 hours
-
There’s progressive worsening despite conservative care
-
You have access to a board-certified neurologist/surgeon quickly
Conservative care is worth considering when:
-
Your dog is still responsive and has some movement or sensation
-
You're looking for a natural, affordable, non-invasive alternative
-
You're committed to a structured home care plan (crate rest, therapies, etc.)
What Makes Conservative Care Work?
Conservative care isn’t just about rest — it’s about smart recovery. Here’s what we use successfully in our clinic:
-
Strict crate rest (typically 4–6 weeks)
-
NSAIDs or steroids for inflammation
-
Pain relief meds
-
Acupuncture and laser therapy
-
Natural supplements to support spinal healing and reduce inflammation
One of the most important tools we use? Canine Vital Spinal Health - natural supplement for spinal support. It’s designed to reduce inflammation, support disc and nerve repair, and aid mobility in a gentle but powerful way.
Final Thoughts
Don’t rush into a $20,000 surgery without knowing your options. Conservative care — when done properly — may offer the same or better outcome, especially when paired with natural therapies.
Always work with an experienced vet or rehab practitioner who understands spinal conditions and can guide your decision.
Click here for more detailed references.
