“IVDD is intervertebral disc disease. This condition affects around 1 in 4 dachshunds. A first episode is most likely to happen between the ages of 4 and 7.
In the dog suffering from IVDD, the discs that sit between the vertebrae of the spine bulge or burst into the spinal cord space.” Dedicated to Dachshunds.
Our IVDD Experiences
We have first hand experience with IVDD, to date Holly has had 5 episodes. Two of these required surgery and three required crate rest. Thankfully we have been supported by The Red Foundation and Dedicated to Dachshunds as well as some savings from AlbeeDax. I have also fostered dachshunds with IVDD that have been surrendered to The Red Foundation including one that was abandoned on a country lane.
Holly will need a stroller and hydrotherapy long term unfortunately but she lives a very happy and full life. She even going on dachshund social gatherings!
Insurance companies won’t insure Holly which is why it’s so important to have a good cover. Our rescue puppy has insurance up to £16’000 which I hope will never be needed. A complicated episode of IVDD can easily reach this limit.
I’d like to try and do something to help those going through IVDD so will be making crate bumpers with recovery in mind. There is no profit and the price goes towards covering the filling and fabric. These are priced at £10 and can be found here.
What we have needed for crate rest
You may not need everything here but they are things that have helped us.
- Crate that your dog can easily stand up in and turn around- this was a size small for Holly
- Play pen
- Puppy pads (we found washable ones were good)
- Nappies as Holly did not have bladder control. For boys you can get belly bands. I’d recommend Glenn Darcy. Sanitary towels are quick and easy with these.
- None scented wet wipes/ toilet wipes
- Blankets that are not too big so they wash and dry easily
- Sling for taking them out to toilet with
- Harness
- Lick mats to help boredom, toys if they like them
- Heat disk for in the winter or when it’s cooler as it’s safer than a hot water bottle
- Although not an item.. a good support network makes a huge difference.
Helpful links;
https://dedicatedtodachshunds.co.uk