12/04/2025
If your dog has been diagnosed with IVDD or a herniated disc, you’re not alone. Here are the top questions we hear from pet parents — and what you need to know. 💛
1️⃣ What Is IVDD?
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a spinal condition where the cushioning discs between the vertebrae degenerate, bulge, or rupture, putting pressure on the spinal cord.
This can lead to:
🧩 Pain
⚡ Weakness or wobbliness
🐕 Difficulty walking
🚫 In severe cases, paralysis
Early diagnosis is key to protecting your dog’s mobility and comfort.
2️⃣ How Successful Is Surgery?
Success depends heavily on timing and whether deep pain is still present.
✅ Over 90% success rate when dogs still have deep pain and receive surgery quickly
⚠️ If deep pain is lost, the success rate can drop to ~50% or lower
⏳ Delaying treatment can worsen spinal cord injury and recovery odds
Prompt action makes a big difference.
3️⃣ What Are the Risks?
While most dogs recover well, all surgeries carry potential risks:
🐾 Incomplete recovery
💧 Possible incontinence or long-term mobility issues
🩸 Bleeding, infection, or swelling
🦴 Rarely: spinal instability
❌ Very rare but serious: progressive myelomalacia (fatal spinal deterioration)
Your surgical team will assess and minimize these risks as much as possible.
4️⃣ What Does Surgery Cost?
Costs vary based on location, severity, and hospital capabilities.
💻 CT/MRI: $1,500–$5,000
🏥 Surgery + hospitalization + rehab: several thousand up to $10,000+
🏙️ Complex cases or specialty centers: $15,000 or more
Every case is unique, and your veterinarian can help you understand what’s needed.
5️⃣ What Does Recovery Look Like?
Nerves heal slowly, so patience is essential.
🛌 Weeks 1–8: strict rest, pain control, assisted walking, physical therapy
🐕 Weeks 8–12: most dogs regain walking; coordination improves
🌟 Continued progress for 3–6 months (sometimes longer)
Steady, consistent care leads to the best outcomes.
6️⃣ Who Is a Good Candidate for Surgery?
Good Candidates:
✅ Still have deep pain
✅ Symptoms for a short time
✅ Only one disc affected
✅ Medically stable for anesthesia
✅ Owner able to manage recovery
Poor Candidates:
❌ No deep pain for an extended time
❌ Multiple disc issues or severe spinal damage
❌ Serious underlying health concerns
❌ Limited ability for post-op care
If you have questions about IVDD or think your dog may be experiencing symptoms, we’re here to help. ❤️
Send us a message or call to schedule a consultation.
