by Tara M. Clapper, Contributing Writer
While many professional dog trainers advise against allowing pets on furniture, some Chihuahua owners ignore this rule. Chihuahuas, after all, are small and cuddly lap dogs bereft of large teeth and claws, making it less likely that they'll disturb people or damage furniture. However, constant jumping can cause major back problems in your happy and healthy Chihuahua.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IDD) in Chihuahuas Because they're small, Chis are susceptible to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IDD). Dogs can get one of two types of IDD, one occurring in younger dogs, the other more frequent in senior dogs. A Chihuahua's back has disks that cushion typical spinal pressure. When one of these discs fails (or 'slips'), the Chi experiences severe pain. Your dog's vet may also call this a 'slipped disc’ or 'disc disease.' Though humans have different anatomy than dogs, we can also suffer from slipped discs. Signs of Pain Your dog may exhibit the following if in pain due to spinal problems:
Examination and Treatment Chihuahuas can't talk, so your dog's veterinarian must examine the dog and conduct tests to see how severely she is affected by a slipped disc. Tests can involve pinching your dog's paw and lightly touching his spine. Dogs can also get CAT Scans and MRIs to determine the extent of the injuries. Vets often prescribe medication to assist in the treatment of IDD. Your vet will also ask you to minimize your dog's movement, specifically jumping, and will have you confine your dog to a crate. How to Prevent Back Problems It's hard to stop a Chihuahua from being a Chihuahua, and you don't want to change the spirit or personality of a dog. However, you can prevent back problems by minimizing the amount of jumping your dog has to do. You can accomplish this in several ways:
Important note: The author is not a veterinary professional. If you feel that your dog is in pain, consult a professional immediately. Does your dog have back issues? Please add your tips below. This post was originally published on Examiner.com as Chihuahua Examiner. Republished with permission of the author. Content Manifested by Brand Shamans Content & Creators Community, LLC. We transform the web with impactful, meaningful content daily! Ready to elevate your brand with pure magic? Discover the power of hiring us for all your ✨Content & Brand Elevation Services✨now! *Disclaimer: Any information provided about crystals, spiritual practices, and healing is intended for educational and informational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the FDA. Individual results may vary. Please practice caution and informed decision-making in your personal journey. The author is a trained Shamanic Alchemist and experienced holistic researcher. Our content, products, or services are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before beginning or changing any medical treatments or health-related practices. Comments are closed.
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