Paralysis

What is paralysis?

Paralysis means that a dog can no longer voluntarily tense or relax its muscles. This can affect part or all of the body. Depending on which nerves or muscles are affected, this is referred to as partial or complete paralysis. Partial paralysis can, for example, only affect one paw, one leg or one side of the face. Complete paralysis affects all four limbs and possibly also the tail and trunk.

Paralysis can have various consequences for the dog, such as

• Pain
• Restriction of movement
• Loss of body temperature regulation
• Loss of bladder and bowel control
• pressure sores
• infections
• Depression

What are the causes of paralysis in dogs?

Paralysis in dogs can have many different causes. The most common are:

• Traumatic injuries: An accident, fall or bite can cause damage to the nerves or spinal column responsible for muscle control. This can lead to acute or chronic paralysis.
• Degenerative diseases: Age, genetics or other factors can lead to degeneration of the nerves or spine responsible for muscle control. This can lead to gradual or sudden paralysis.
• Inflammatory diseases:Infections, autoimmune diseases or other inflammatory processes can lead to damage to the nerves or spine responsible for muscle control. This can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis.
• Metabolic diseases:Metabolic disorders, such as diabetes, can lead to impaired nerve function responsible for muscle control. This can lead to reversible or irreversible paralysis.
• Toxic substances: Toxic substances, such as chocolate, rat poison or drugs, can cause damage to the nerves or spinal cord responsible for muscle control. This can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis.

What are the symptoms of paralysis in dogs?

The symptoms of paralysis in dogs depend on the severity and extent of the paralysis. The most common symptoms are:

• Weakness or inability to move a paw, leg or the whole body
• Tremors, spasms or twitching of the muscles
• Loss of reflex or pain sensation in one area
• Change in posture or gait
• Difficulty standing up, lying down or jumping
• Accidents with urine or feces
• Wounds, redness or swelling in the paralyzed areas
• Loss of appetite, apathy or depression

How is paralysis diagnosed in dogs?

To determine the cause and degree of paralysis in a dog, a veterinarian must perform a thorough examination. This includes:

• A medical history: the vet will ask questions about the age, breed, history, timing and development of symptoms.
• A clinical examination: The vet will examine the dog for signs of pain, inflammation, injury or infection. He will also test the dog's reflexes, pain sensation, muscle strength and coordination.
• Diagnostic imaging: The vet will use X-rays, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess the structure and function of the nerves and spine.
• A laboratory test: The vet will take blood, urine or cerebrospinal fluid samples to look for signs of infection, inflammation, metabolic disorders or poisoning.

How is paralysis in dogs treated?

The treatment of paralysis in dogs depends on the cause and severity of the paralysis. The most common treatment options are:

• Medication: The veterinarian may prescribe painkillers, anti-inflammatories, antibiotics or other medications to relieve the symptoms or address the underlying cause.
• Surgery: The veterinarian may recommend surgery to correct or remove an injury, tumor or deformity to the nerves or spine.
• Physiotherapy: The vet may recommend physiotherapy to strengthen muscles, improve mobility and improve circulation. This may include massage, stretching exercises, electrostimulation or hydrotherapy.
• Aids: The vet may recommend aids to support or relieve the dog. This may include a splint, bandage, wheelchair or diaper.

How can you prevent paralysis in dogs?

Paralysis in dogs is not always preventable, but there are some measures that can reduce the risk. These include:

• A regular check-up at the vet
• A balanced diet and sufficient fluids
• Adequate exercise and activity
• A safe environment without sources of danger
• Early detection and treatment of illnesses or injuries