Managing Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs
Ways of Slowing the Progress of This Debilitating Spinal Disease
Sep 4, 2008
While aging is a normal process, watching a beloved pet gradually lose the ability to walk and being unable to help it is difficult. In the case of canine degenerative myelopathy, the pet eventually loses hind limb function as the spinal cord damage progresses. At this time there is no cure, nor any medications that have proven effective in stopping the progress of this disease.
Recently a genetic test was developed which can help determine risk for canine degenerative myelopathy. At present the greatest value of this test is that it gives dog breeders another tool to aid in determining which of their dogs may be carriers of the defective gene. As more animals are tested the role this gene plays in dogs which develop canine degenerative myelopathy may become clearer.
The Importance of Exercise in Managing Canine Degenerative Myelopathy
Dogs with canine degenerative myelopathy benefit from controlled walking or swimming in several ways. Allowing a dog to run around the property or in the dog park does not provide the same benefit, as the exercise is not consistent. A regular walk of a specific distance at a steady rate not only improves muscle tone, it improves brain function, which may be important for dogs suffering from the canine form of senile dementia in addition to degenerative myelopathy.
Swimming is another good exercise for the canine degenerative myelopathy patient. It builds muscle tone without putting stress on aging joints. Where possible, walking and swimming may be alternated in a dog’s exercise program. Rest days should be scheduled after each workout so that muscles and joints can recover.
Drugs That May Slow the Progress of Degenerative Myelopathy
Aminocaproic acid (EACE) and n-acetylcysteine (NAC) have been used to attempt to slow the rate of degeneration. Aminocaproic acid is believed to inhibit myelin sheath breakdown. N-acetylcysteine functions as an anti-oxidant. It has been used with some success in human cystic fibrosis cases. Neither of these medications has proven to help in all cases but for clients with a dog suffering from canine degenerative myelopathy, it would be worth discussing the pros and cons with a veterinarian.
Diet, Vitamins, Minerals and Other Supplements
Dogs with degenerative myelopathy may benefit from a less processed diet. Owners who are willing to cook for their pet should consult with their veterinarian to formulate a balanced diet that will include vegetables and grains which may provide needed vitamins and minerals for nerve health.
Supplements that support nerve function may be of help in caring for a dog with canine degenerative myelopathy. Vitamins B, E, C and selenium have anti-oxidant or nerve protective functions. Vitamin B6, or folic acid, and B12, or cobalamin, in particular, are known to help maintain and strengthen the myelin sheath which protects nerves from damage. Choline may also be of help.
A clinical researcher at the University of Florida, Dr R M Clemmons, has been working with many diet and supplement options in an effort to slow the effects of canine degenerative myelopathy. Unfortunately, to date, his protocol has not been consistently effective. Owners of dogs with the disease may want to discuss the potential for using some of his recommendations based on the individual animal’s overall condition. In particular the value of acupuncture and acupressure in slowing the progress of degenerative myelopathy is worth looking at more closely.
With no cure and no established treatment to stop the progression of this disease, keeping dogs with degenerative myelopathy as fit as possible for as long as possible must be the focus of owner efforts.
For more information on other neurological disorders see Neurological Disorders in Dogs Can Be Confusing.
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