Spinal Cord Stroke: Can Infections Harm My Dog?

Spinal strokes in dogs, also known as fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE), are caused by a blockage in a blood vessel supplying the spinal cord. This blockage is a piece of the intervertebral disc, not a blood clot, and can cause immediate paralysis in one or more of the dog's legs. FCE is not caused by infection but is often a side effect of strenuous play.

• Weakness (paresis) of one or more limbs
• Knuckling of one or more paws
• Dragging of one or more legs due to the inability to feel and move the leg(s) (paralysis)
• Inability to urinate (occasionally)
• Fecal incontinence (occasionally) | | Onset | Sudden | | Affected breeds | All breeds of dogs are at risk for FCE, but large- and giant-breed dogs, such as the Labrador Retriever and Bernese Mountain Dog, are more predisposed. Miniature Schnauzer, Yorkshire Terrier, and Shetland Sheepdog have also been found to have a higher incidence of FCE. | | Age of affected dogs | Most dogs with FCE are middle-aged, usually 3 to 6 years old, but the condition has been recorded in dogs as young as 4 months and as old as 10 years of age. | | Treatment | There is no specific treatment for FCE. Physical therapy and supportive care are recommended. | | Prognosis | Recovery from FCE takes time. Most dogs with FCE will start to show signs of improvement within 14 days, but recovery can continue up to 3 to 4 months after the onset of the FCE in some cases. Some dogs make a full recovery, while others have permanent disabilities such as paralysis in the back legs. |

What is a spinal stroke in dogs?

A spinal stroke in dogs, also known as a fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE), occurs when a piece of a dog's intervertebral disc breaks off, enters the bloodstream, and blocks blood flow to a portion of the spinal cord. This blockage causes paralysis in one or more of the dog's legs. FCEs are typically caused by mild trauma or physical activity, such as playing fetch, and are more common in large and giant dog breeds, though they can occur in any dog.

FCEs occur suddenly and are often preceded by a yelp of pain from the dog. The pain usually subsides within a few minutes, but weakness and paralysis can develop quickly. The level of dysfunction depends on which part of the spinal cord is affected, with signs ranging from incoordination to paralysis.

Diagnosis of FCE is typically made through a physical exam, with spinal X-rays usually appearing normal. The most definitive test for FCE is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). There is no specific medical treatment for FCE, but supportive care and physical assistance, such as rehabilitation and hydrotherapy, can help dogs regain strength and coordination.

The prognosis for dogs who suffer an FCE varies depending on the location and severity of the lesion, as well as the speed of treatment initiation. Most dogs will show improvement within 3-4 months, with some making a complete recovery. Recurrence of FCE is rare, and dogs who have experienced an FCE are not at an increased risk of it happening again.

What are the symptoms of a spinal stroke in dogs?

The symptoms of a spinal stroke in dogs, also known as fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE), can be sudden and scary. Typically, the first sign is a sudden yelp followed by the dog losing the ability to walk. The sharp, sudden pain from an FCE typically lessens and may even disappear after a few minutes, but it can take up to a few hours.

The specific symptoms and their severity depend on the level of the spinal cord affected and how much of the cord is damaged. While front legs can be affected, the back legs are usually impacted, with dogs showing signs of leg weakness immediately following the stroke. Other common symptoms include:

• Loss of coordination
• Partial or full rear leg paralysis
• Wobbly or uneven gait
• Numbness in the extremities
• Incontinence
• Neck or back pain

If your dog is displaying any of these symptoms, it is vital to contact your veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment will lead to a more successful recovery.

What are the causes of a spinal stroke in dogs?

A spinal stroke in dogs, also known as fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE), occurs when a piece of fibrocartilage from an intervertebral disc breaks off and blocks a blood vessel in the spinal cord. This blockage causes a loss of blood flow to a portion of the spinal cord, leading to weakness or paralysis in one or more limbs. While the cause of FCE is unknown, it often occurs during vigorous exercise or mild trauma and is most common in large and giant breed dogs, as well as Miniature Schnauzers, Shetland Sheepdogs, and Yorkshire Terriers.

There are no clear indicators of risk factors for FCE in dogs. It can affect dogs of any age, from as young as four months to over ten years old. However, most cases occur in active dogs between the ages of three and six years old.

The symptoms of FCE include sudden, severe pain that quickly disappears, dragging of back legs or weakness in the rear legs, loss of coordination, partial or full rear leg paralysis, and a wobbly or uneven gait. The onset of FCE is sudden, and affected dogs typically cry out in pain before losing the ability to walk.

While there is no specific treatment for FCE, early diagnosis and immediate medical attention are crucial for the dog's recovery. Rehabilitation and supportive care play a vital role, and most dogs will require physical therapy to regain strength and coordination. The first 24 hours after the stroke are typically the most challenging, and the dog's recovery plan will depend on the extent of spinal cord damage.

It is important to note that FCE is unlikely to recur, and dogs who have experienced it are not at an increased risk of having another spinal stroke.

How is a spinal stroke in dogs diagnosed?

A spinal stroke in dogs, also known as fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE), is diagnosed by a veterinarian based on the dog's history, a physical and neurological examination, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

FCE is characterised by a sudden onset of symptoms, typically following physical activity. The first sign is often a yelp, followed by the dog losing the ability to walk. The dog may experience severe pain that quickly disappears, and it may take a few minutes to a few hours for the pain to diminish.

During the physical examination, the veterinarian will assess the dog's gait, coordination, and limb function. They will also check for signs of weakness or paralysis, which typically affect the hind legs, but can also involve the front legs.

The MRI is used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the embolism and the prognosis for recovery. It helps identify the specific part of the spine that is affected and can rule out other potential causes of the dog's symptoms, such as compression or swelling of the spinal cord.

It is important to seek veterinary attention immediately if a dog experiences sudden changes in mobility or suspected spinal trauma, as early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a successful recovery.

How is a spinal stroke in dogs treated?

Fibrocartilaginous Embolism (FCE), or spinal stroke in dogs, occurs when a piece of fibrocartilage from within the intervertebral discs breaks off and blocks a blood vessel supplying the spinal cord. This blockage causes paralysis of one or more of the dog's legs. The treatment for FCE involves supportive care and rehabilitation to help the dog regain strength.

If your dog is suffering from FCE, the first step is to consult a veterinarian, who will perform a physical and neurological examination to determine the affected area of the spine. An MRI is the most effective way to diagnose FCE, but other diagnostic tests such as X-rays, myelography, and spinal fluid analysis may also be recommended.

While there is no specific medical treatment for FCE, physical therapy and rehabilitation play a crucial role in the dog's recovery. Underwater treadmills, laser therapy, and range-of-motion exercises are commonly used to assist with walking and build strength. It is important to encourage movement and provide rehabilitation support to aid in the healing process.

During the recovery process, it is essential to monitor the dog's bladder function, as they may need assistance with urination. Additionally, slings or harnesses can be used to provide support and aid in movement.

The prognosis for FCE varies depending on the location of the blockage, the severity of initial signs, and the speed of treatment initiation. Most dogs will show signs of improvement within 14 days, but full recovery can take up to 3 to 4 months. Recurrence of FCE is rare, and dogs who have experienced it once are not at an increased risk of it happening again.

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