
- Bruising
- Constipation
- Inability to control bladder or bowel function
- Loss of appetite
- Skin lesions (from dragging)
- Skin ulcers
- Stiffened joints
- Urine scald
- Cancer - The tumors that often form when cancer strikes can develop near the spine or on specific nerve bundles, inhibiting movement; this condition is usually gradual, with weakness showing before total paralysis sets in
- Degenerative Myelopathy - This incurable disease is progressive and tends to strike certain breeds of dog between eight and fourteen years of age
- Infection or inflammation of the central nervous system - Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, and some parasitic infestations can find their way to the spine, muscles, or even the brain itself; inflammation can be triggered by genetic and immune-mediated disorders as well
- Injury of the central nervous system - Injuries that harm the central nervous system may cause paralysis, either through damage to nerves in the spinal cord or due to injury to the brain itself
- Intervertebral Disk Disease - Also known as a herniated, slipped, or prolapsed disc, this occurs when the fluid-filled discs that act as cushions between the bones of the spine become damaged; this can occur suddenly, or develop more gradually, and the symptoms frequently vary depending on where on the spine the damaged disc or discs are located
- Hygiene - It is crucial to ensure that the dog’s bedding remains clean and dry as many immobile dogs do not have full control of their bathroom habits; urine that remains in contact with the skin may cause urine scald
- Muscle wasting and poor circulation - Dogs that are unable to exercise on their own may benefit from range of motion exercises, hydrotherapy, and therapeutic massage
- Pressure sores - It is important to prevent pressure sores by providing soft, thickly cushioned beds to recline on and being sure to move the patient manually every few hours
- Respiration - It is particularly important to turn your pet frequently if they are unable to rise from lying on their side; dogs that are left lying on one side for too long are at risk for a collapsed lung
- Temperature - Dogs that are immobile frequently have poor temperature control, and their environment should be kept at an appropriate temperature
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- Braces - Specially designed braces can be used to stabilize an immobile limb or to help steady a weakened or paralyzed spine
- Hydrotherapy - Hydrotherapy is frequently used to help animals that have been rendered immobile as swimming can help prevent muscle wasting and poor circulation for dogs that have paralysis that is restricted to the back legs
- Physical Therapy - Physical therapy for canines can include range of motion exercises, massage, work with an exercise ball, and foot stimulation
- Slings and Harnesses - Dogs who are experiencing weakness or immobility of the hind legs may be assisted by specialized slings and harnesses that allow the person walking the dog to assist them by holding up their hind end
- Wheelchairs - Also referred to as dog carts, these wheeled devices allow dogs who are unable to walk due to paralysis or severe weakness of the back legs
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