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the actual drug while others will receive a placebo. However, the benefit of receiving a free diagnostic workup and free care may more than make up for the possibility that your dog would not be receiving the active drug. Please see the side box for more information. -VCA To qualify for the Anticonvulsant Drug Clinical Trial, a dog must: • Be suspected of having epilepsy • Be at least 4 months of age • Not have received more than 7 days of any anti-seizure medication • Weigh 3.3 pounds or more • Have no previous history of seizure clusters or an acute, prolonged seizure • Not be lactating, pregnant, or suspected of being pregnant For more information, visit www.helpfordogswithseizures.com or call 1-888-598-7125, ext. 207 What is intervertebral disc disease? What signs are seen in pets that are experiencing this condition? How is it treated? -SSM Intervertebral disc disease is defined as a condition in which one or more of the discs between the vertebrae becomes compromised or ruptures. Without a cushion between the bony vertebrae, the spinal cord may suffer injury or become compressed, impairing its ability to function normally. The resulting signs may range from pain to impaired mobility or even paralysis. Impaired mobility can appear as an unstable gait (also known as ataxia), leg dragging (paresis) or a complete inability to move (paraplegia). This condition is more prevalent in dogs, but we do see it in cats as well. Abnormal walking is the most obvious sign that intervertebral disc dysfunction is present in a pet. The presence of pain, in the absence of impaired mobility or other neurological deficits, is a bit more difficult to relate to an abnormal disc. Since your pet can't tell you what's wrong, it is important to pay attention to subtle clues that might suggest that something is amiss. Be on the lookout for decreased activity level or a hesitancy to jump or climb. Any unexplained crying out, whining or moaning could be a sign. If your pet displays any of these symptoms, make an appointment immediately with your veterinarian for an evaluation. Timely and appropriate intervention and treatment may make the difference between temporary versus permanent impairment. stimulation and acupuncture. Pets recovering from many acute and chronic conditions may benefit greatly from rehabilitation therapy. We often see a reduction in pain and recovery time as a result of the gentle, hands-on care provided by our staff. We also teach the owner techniques that can be implemented at home. For pets with neurological disorders, rehabilitation therapy can provide an added level of care that significantly improves their quality of life. SERVICES AVAILABLE: VCA South Shore Animal Hospital Acupuncture Avian and Exotic Animal Medicine Cardiology Dentistry Dermatology Diagnostic Imaging (X-Ray, Ultrasound, CT and MRI) Emergency and Critical Care Medicine Internal Medicine When intervertebral disc dysfunction is suspected, a trained veterinary neurologist/neurosurgeon can provide the best opportunity for your pet to remain as healthy as possible. Treatment for this condition depends upon the severity of the disease, the nature of onset of the signs, and the length of time the signs have been present. Diagnostic imaging, especially MRI, is especially useful in determining the best course of treatment. Conservative management, consisting of strict rest, pain medication and physical therapy, is appropriate for pets with minimal neurological deficits. However, surgical intervention to relieve spinal cord compression provides a better outcome for pets when there is any type of motor function loss. In all cases, recovery depends upon the duration of illness, the rapidity of the neurological decline, and the degree of spinal cord compression. What types of rehabilitation therapy does VCA South Shore Animal Hospital offer for pets with neurologic disorders? - SSM We have a state-of-the-art rehabilitation facility within our South Weymouth location. We offer everything from therapeutic exercises to hydrotherapy, ultrasound therapy, cryotherapy, neuromuscular electrical Neurology and Neurosurgery Oncology Ophthalmology The hospital is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergencies. TheSouthShoreMagazine.com Pain Management Rehabilitation Therapy Surgery (Soft Tissue and Orthopedic) Wellness 595 Columbian Street South Weymouth 781-337-6622 www.vcaweymouth.com 55