Spinal disease in the dog

THE majority of animals with spinal disease will present with locomotor disturbance and /or spinal pain. In both situations a detailed clinical history is essential. This will include such details as the duration, rate of onset and progression of signs, presence of bladder control, as indicated by the ability to pass urine in a stream or incontinence, and the general present and past health of the animal. In many instances the history (together with ancillary aids) is the clue to diagnosis. The clinical signs often reflect the location of the cord damage rather than the aetiology. Having ascertained the history, the clinician should have a clear picture in his mind of the events from the onset of the illness to the time of examination.