K9 Carts Glossary

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Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)

is characterized by a progressive rear limb weakness or paresis.  It typically occurs in older dogs and is often confused with osteoarthritis.  The disease is progressive.  Some call DM the canine equivalent of multiple sclerosis (MS).  There are no definitive tests for DM.  DM is suspected when all other neurological and orthopedic diagnoses are ruled out.  German shepherd and Corgis are two breeds that are over-represented with DM. A K-9 Cart may extend the quality of life for a pet with DM for several years.

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Demodectic Mange

is a skin disease characterized by hair loss particularly on the head, face, neck, shoulders and the front of the forelegs. Caused by the demodex mite, which is normally found on the skin of most dogs, but, due to an abnormality of the immune system, the body overreacts to its presence. Demodectic mange is often an indication of an immune system dysfunction in older dogs. Treatment for demodectic mange consists of prolonged medical treatment by your veterinarian.

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Diabetes insipidus

inadequate secretion of, or resistance to the effects of, antidiuretic hormone (ADH or Vasopressin). This hormone stimulates the kidney retain water in the body. Consequently, the dog passes a large volume of urine with a low specific gravity, and also exhibits great thirst. It may be acquired, inherited, or idiopathic. mellitus – due to a failure of the pancreas to produce sufficient insulin, or the cells resistance to the effects of insulin the body is unable to properly process glucose. May require insulin injections or may be controlled with diet. May be acquired or possibly inherited.

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Elbow dysplasia

is a medical term used to identify a series of inherited diseases of the elbow.  Elbow dysplasia may include fragmented medial coronoids (FMC) of the ulna, osteochondritis (OCD) of the humeral condyle or united anconeal processes (UAP).  Elbow dysplasia is associated with pain and lameness.  Diagnosis by your veterinarian is based on physical examination and X-rays of the elbow.

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Fibrocartilaginous Emboli (FCE)

The bones or vertebra of the spinal column are cushioned by intervertebral discs.  These discs are composed of a soft material.  If this disc material dislodges, this fragment or emboli can block the blood supply to the spinal cord and, thereby, affect a segment of the spinal cord or nerve conduction to the muscles.  Paralysis from an FCE typically has a sudden onset.  Unlike discs that impinge on the spinal cord, FCE is usually not painful.  Diagnosis is performed by a process of elimination of other potential causes of sudden paralysis.  Magnetic resonance images (MRIs) can be used to identify the embolus.  Since the blood supply is blocked, the damage to the spinal cord is usually permanent.  Some animals may regain some function over time, but often these animals will be permanently paralyzed and benefit from a K9 Cart.

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Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)

is caused when the cushions or discs between the vertebral bodies bulge or rupture causing compression of the spinal cord. Clinical signs may vary depending on the location and the severity of the damage to the apinal cord. Pain, reluctance to move, wobbly gait, weakness, inability to stand, and dragging of hindlimbs may be present. IVDD rupture is a surgical emergency.