How can I slow degenerative myelopathy in my senior German Shepherd?

Question

My vet thinks my 10 yr old german shepard has degenerative myelopathy and offered a medicine that may help slow down the progress. It has A.C.A. + liqutinic in the med. Just to get a second opinion I'd like to know if you have heard of this and is there anything else that may help? I appreciate your advice. Thanks! Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 125 lbs

Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology) · Accepted Answer

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive neurologic condition that is more common in the German Shepherd Dog, but affects other breeds as well. I am assuming your vet suspects this condition because of hindlimb weakness/wobbliness. Because many things can cause similar symptoms, especially if pain is a component of the process, getting more of a definitive diagnosis can be helpful. There is a DNA genetic test for degenerative myelopathy that can help aide in diagnosis. You could talk to your vet about this if this would be helpful for you to know. Mainly because this can be a sad disease to help the pet through, especially in later stages. Most of the treatment is centered around supportive care, assistance walking, booties on feet, physical therapy. The person who would have the most up to date information on the treatments of this disease would be a veterinary neurologist. You could also talk to your regular vet about a referral if you feel that this would be helpful for you as well. The treatment you describe above likely comes from a specific veterinary neurologist that suggested some medications may be beneficial but this has not likely been backed up by reasearch yet unfortunately. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

How can I slow degenerative myelopathy in my senior German Shepherd?

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