A back brace for dogs with Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) serves several important functions:
Provides Support: The brace offers additional support to the spine and hindquarters, helping to stabilize the dog's posture and maintain a more normalized gait.
Aids in Mobility: By providing structural support to the back and hind legs, the brace assists the dog in maintaining balance and coordination, which can be particularly challenging for dogs with suffering from ataxia and DM.
Reduces Strain: It helps distribute weight and pressure more evenly across the body, reducing the strain on the weakened or affected areas.
Promotes Comfort: A well-fitted brace can alleviate discomfort and pain associated with DM, allowing the dog to move more comfortably and with less effort.
Delays Muscle Atrophy: By helping the dog maintain a more natural posture and gait, a back brace can potentially slow down muscle wasting and atrophy, which is common in dogs with DM.
Enhances Quality of Life: Overall, a back brace can significantly improve the dog's quality of life by enabling them to move more freely and engage in normal activities for a longer period of time.
It's important to note that a properly fitted and designed back brace is crucial. It should be prescribed or recommended by a veterinarian who is familiar with your dog's specific condition. Regular check-ups with the veterinarian are also essential to monitor the dog's progress and ensure that the brace continues to provide the necessary support and benefits.