• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a condition that causes the intervertebral discs (cushions between the backbones) to lose their sponginess, become hard and fragile, and sometimes slip out of place.
  • When an intervertebral disc slips out of place (a slipped disc) it presses on the spinal cord, causes pain, nerve problems, and sometimes paralysis.
  • Certain breeds such as the Dachshund and French bulldog are prone to IVDD and slipped discs due to the shape of their spine.

Symptoms of IVDD can develop slowly or very quickly, and include:

  • Back pain
  • Wobbliness
  • Weak legs
  • Difficulty getting up
  • Dragging or scuffing feet
  • Tripping or falling regularly
  • Paralysis

Diagnosis of IVDD often involves:

  • Clinical examination
  • CT or MRI scans

Treatment can either be conservative or surgical dependant upon the type and severity of the disc prolapse. Our vets are on hand to guide you every step of the way from initial consultation to surgery if this is indicated. 

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  • Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a condition that causes the intervertebral discs (cushions between the backbones) to lose their sponginess, become hard and fragile, and sometimes slip out of place.
  • When an intervertebral disc slips out of place (a slipped disc) it presses on the spinal cord, causes pain, nerve problems, and sometimes paralysis.
  • Certain breeds such as the Dachshund and French bulldog are prone to IVDD and slipped discs due to the shape of their spine.

Symptoms of IVDD can develop slowly or very quickly, and include:

  • Back pain
  • Wobbliness
  • Weak legs
  • Difficulty getting up
  • Dragging or scuffing feet
  • Tripping or falling regularly
  • Paralysis

Diagnosis of IVDD often involves:

  • Clinical examination
  • CT or MRI scans

Treatment can either be conservative or surgical dependant upon the type and severity of the disc prolapse. Our vets are on hand to guide you every step of the way from initial consultation to surgery if this is indicated. 

CLICK BELOW TO SEE OUR SPINAL PACKAGE

Meet our spinal surgeon Bert

Dr. Humberto (Bert) Abreu

Bert is supported by our referral vets Viorela and Lucy

Viorela Singeorzan

CSAVP (Dermatology) MRCVS
RCVS recognised certificate holder in Small Animal Dermatology.

Viorela achieved her certificate in 2023, joining a referral hospital and attending numerous workshops abroad to enhance her expertise in the field. Viorela has a genuine passion for dermatological cases, particularly those involving complex skin conditions. She has a true affinity for client communication and prides herself on a systematic and thorough approach. 

Lucy Hughs

MA VetMB PgC SA Ophthal CertAVP MRCVS

Advanced Practitioner in Veterinary Ophthalmology

After graduating in 2006, Lucy spent a couple of years in mixed practice before moving to treat small animals only and soon developing a passion for ophthalmology. She has studied extensively in this area and holds several post-graduate qualifications including the BSAVA Certificate in Small Animal Ophthalmology, gaining RCVS Advanced Practitioner status in veterinary ophthalmology in 2021.  She enjoys getting to know her patients and their owners and relishes the challenge of a tricky eye case.