Intervertebral disk disease is a condition in which the disks that separate the vertebrae of the spine degenerate. This degeneration creates pressure on the spine, causing pain and even paralysis. It is more common among dogs with long backs and short thick legs such as Dachshunds, Basset Hounds and French Bulldogs.

Symptoms of intervertebral disk disease include difficulty walking, loss of balance, mild or severe back or neck pain, and paralysis.

It is thought that there is a genetic or hereditary factor associated with the development of this disease. In some cases, however, trauma may cause intervertebral disk disease.

Your vet will perform a physical examination of your dog and also employ several imaging techniques such as spinal X-rays, CT-scans, MRIs and myelograms. A myelogram is when your vet takes an X-ray of your dog's spine after injecting a dye into it to make the spine more easily visible.

Most cases of intervertebral disk disease can be treated with the use of anti-inflammatory drugs in combination with pain killers and, in many instances, cage rest for approximately 2 months. More severe cases may require surgery in order to remove degenerated disks. Because the surgery involves the delicate procedure of removing disk material, the surgery is often performed by a board-certified surgeon.

Maintaining a healthy weight and limiting high impact activities, such as jumping off of furniture, may prevent or limit the recurrence of intervertebral disk disease.

No, you cannot get intervertebral disk disease from your dog.