Myelitis in Dogs

Although uncommon, myelitis is a pathological state of the spinal cord, generally consecutive to bacterial infections due to the action of toxins elaborated when the dog has a disease that affects the medulla nerves, which stop fulfilling their role. A progressive paralysis is established, and the animal loses the sensation on the skin of the loin, later on the back and, later, the front legs are incapable of supporting the body. This state begins with the paralysis of a muscle or group of muscles, muscular shaking or spasms. Sometimes, the penis can hang from the foreskin and the bladder and rectum are not able to withhold their content, which finally leads to a paraplegia. This state can disappear spontaneously or, conversely, end in death.

The term "myelitis" also applies to the inflammation of the bone marrow; in that case veterinarians also call it "ostomyelitis". For further information please consult your veterinarian.