Canine degenerative myelopathy, or chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy, is an uncommon disease in dogs that is believed to be genetically inherited. Canine degenerative myelopathy cannot be cured, but as more information becomes available, newer and more effective treatments are emerging.
Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease which eventually causes paralysis and incontinence in dogs. Symptoms appear gradually and slowly increase over time. The beginning symptoms of degenerative myelopathy affect the back legs of the dog. As the condition progresses, the dog will eventually begin to become lame.
Currently there is no cure for canine degenerative myelopathy, but there are emerging treatments that can slow the progression of the disease and help to increase the quality of life for the patient. One of the main treatments use exercise and physical therapy. There are also medications being studied.