Is Veterinary Spinal Surgery Safe for Senior Pets?
Spinal surgery on dogs is typically performed to provide relief for the spinal cord. General anesthesia is used when undertaking spinal surgery and is usually done at a specialty clinic by a surgical specialist. The surgery involves making incisions within the vertebral column and the surrounding bones to relieve pressure on the nerves. Most dogs will never require spinal surgery, but certain breeds are much more susceptible to spinal problems. Veterinary spinal surgery may be the greatest solution for your pet to live comfortably without pain when medications and physical therapy become inadequate. So, what exactly is vet spinal surgery? Is it safe for older dogs? This article will guide pet parents about spinal surgery and how they can care for their pets at home.
Why Do Senior Pets Need Spinal Surgery?
Pets also develop back problems and spinal complications as they grow older. These issues may lead to pain, weakness, or even paralysis. In small and young dogs, rest and medicine are beneficial. However, veterinary spinal surgery is most appropriate when the problem is serious. Most of these conditions are painful and restrict your pet’s ability to move.
Types of Spinal Surgery
- Hemilaminectomy: This also involves the removal of the lamina, but this is done on the segment of the spine that passes through the chest to the lower back (thoracolumbar area). The top of the vertebra is opened, and a part of the vertebra is exposed. This may be used to treat herniated disc material, cysts, tumors, or other issues. Surgery involves pressing off a part of the vertebra and any disc content or bulges to take the weight off the spinal cord.
- Dorsal laminectomy: During this type of spinal surgery, a bone window is removed on the back side of the vertebra, including the protrusion of a winged shape of the vertebra. It is more prevalent in the lower back (lumbar region).
- Ventral Slot: In this, one drills a small slot on the two vertebrae bottoms of each side of a disc. It allows resecting material that is a disc and having spinal decompression. It is performed only on the neck vertebrae.
- Fenestration: In the soft space between the vertebrae, a small incision is created such that when there is material herniation, the material extrudes through the incision and not up the spinal cord.
Is Surgery Safe for Older Dogs?
Age is undoubtedly one of the considerations in planning the surgical procedure; however, it does not necessarily make the surgery unsafe. The age of your pet is not the most important factor, as it is their well-being that matters. In case your elderly dog is in good condition, they may successfully recover with spinal surgery when assigned to a qualified veterinary surgeon. Most dogs recover more quickly than anticipated, especially when surgery helps alleviate the pain that has been holding them back for months or even years. Veterinarians assess several things before deciding if spinal surgery is a safe option for a senior pet:
- Heart and lung function
- Kidney and liver health
- Mobility status
- Level of pain or neurological loss
- Response to medications
- Overall strength and energy levels
How is Surgery Planned for Senior Pets?
Your vet will perform a complete examination before any spinal surgery. This includes:
- Blood Tests: To test how the organs are functioning and any underlying issues.
- X-rays or MRI Scans: To find out precisely the spine condition.
- Heart and Lung Tests: Particularly vital in aged and big dogs.
- Risks vs. Benefits: Your veterinarian will clarify whether the surgery is not an optimal option or whether an alternative treatment can be applied.
When it has been decided that spinal surgery will be a good solution, your pet is ready to undergo the procedure under conditions that will ensure the lowest stress and highest safety.
Final Thoughts
The choice to proceed withveterinary spinal surgeryon an elderly pet should not be made in a hurry. A qualified veterinary team will assist you in making the right choice for the health and happiness of your pet. A lot of senior dogs and cats respond fine following spinal surgery. They are more energetic, do not complain of pain, and even play freely. Always discuss the risks, benefits, and realistic consequences with your vet. If you are searching for a trusted veterinary clinic, the British Veterinary Centre is one of the reputable names in spine surgery in the UAE. We have fully equipped facilities, and our team is available 24/7 for emergency care.
READ MORE :Hidden Loan Risks When Starting a Farm