Living With IVDD: Study Shows Dogs and Owners Bear Long-Term Burdens

Chronic Sequelae and Owner Burdens Are Common Following Canine Intervertebral Disc Disease

Frederik Samsøe-Schmidt, Mette Berendt, James Edward Miles

Background:
Canine intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a prevalent neurologic condition, often requiring surgical or conservative treatment. Despite good short-term recovery rates, little is known about long-term outcomes, quality of life (QOL), and owner burden. This study aimed to evaluate chronic sequelae in dogs diagnosed with IVDD and assess the associated impact on owners' emotional and practical wellbeing through retrospective clinical data and follow-up interviews.

Methods:
The study retrospectively identified 89 dogs with imaging-confirmed extrusive IVDD diagnosed between 2012 and 2022. Owners of 71 dogs not euthanized at diagnosis were invited to participate in structured telephone interviews assessing QOL, residual signs, recurrence, and caregiver burden. Thirty-one owners (44% response rate) completed the interview, with dogs managed either surgically (n=24) or conservatively (n=7). Interviews occurred a median of 4 years and 7 months after diagnosis.

Results:
Over half of the interviewed owners reported persistent problems in their dogs, including kyphosis, pain, gait abnormalities, and reduced activity tolerance. Recurrence of IVDD signs occurred in 39% of dogs, regardless of treatment type. Only one owner rated their dog’s QOL as poor, though many noted ongoing limitations and adaptations. Nearly half of the owners continued to experience emotional and practical burdens, such as persistent anxiety, lifestyle modifications, and ongoing caution regarding activity. Despite chronic signs, most owners reported good or excellent perceived QOL for their dogs.

Limitations:
This study was limited by its retrospective design, small sample size, and low interview response rate. Owner-reported outcomes were not corroborated by clinical re-evaluation, introducing subjectivity. Additionally, dogs treated surgically or conservatively may not have been equally matched for neurological severity despite statistical analysis.

Conclusions:
IVDD in dogs should be considered a chronic rather than acute condition, with long-term physical sequelae and substantial caregiver burdens. Although most dogs are perceived by owners to have good QOL post-treatment, persistent neurological signs and lifestyle changes are common. Veterinarians should prepare owners for possible long-term outcomes and provide ongoing support, including chronic pain assessment and management.

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