Could Bruising be Linked to Intervertebral Disk Disease in Dogs?

Dear VetBabble: Concerns About Bruising and Disk Disease in Dogs

“I’m a pet parent to a Miniature Pinscher who has been living with Intervertebral Disk Disease for quite some time and is on several medications. Recently, I noticed some bruising on her lower abdomen. Could this be unrelated or should I heave her to the vet for a check-up?”

Understanding Canine Intervertebral Disk Disease

Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD) in dogs is a condition where the cushioning discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column either bulge or burst (herniate) into the spinal cord space. These discs then press on the nerves running through the spinal cord causing pain, nerve damage, and even paralysis. Your Miniature Pinscher’s situation is quite common and managing it with medication is indeed a suitable approach. However, any new symptoms, such as bruising, should never be disregarded as it could be an indication of a different or related health issue.

Before getting overly worried, it’s essential to understand why your dog might be showing these signs. Perhaps it is merely a symptom of rough play or could it be that they may have bumped into something? Regardless, another critical possibility behind your dog’s bruising could be an issue like hip dysplasia. It is a common condition in dogs. It’s a skeletal condition, and, as explained in our Hip Dysplasia in Dogs article, large and little dogs alike can experience it.

Analyzing Unusual Dog Bruising

Bruising on dogs is not typically noticeable due to their fur. When seen, however, it should be concerning, especially if the reason is unexplained. We’ve covered some reasons why your dog may have started limping in our article, Why Is My Dog Limping? When to Worry and What to Do, but unexplained bruising could point to more severe underlying health problems. Issues like damage from medication, an undetected injury, or more seriously, a clotting disorder could be the cause. Therefore, you’re right to consider bringing your Miniature Pinscher in for a check-up.

Key Measures for Preventative Health

Dog’s bruising, much like in humans, could possibly be a warning sign of an underlying health issue like mange, a skin disease caused by tiny parasites called mites. This condition is covered in detail in our Does My Dog Have Mange? article. Even if symptoms seem minimal or unrelated, proactive measures are always valued in pet healthcare.

Preventative checks help to spot any health problems early, rendering them more tractable and less likely to result in significant discomfort or health issues for your pet. Unsure where to start? Our helpful guide, Basic Preventative Health: What Does Your Dog Need?, will prove beneficial. It’s fundamental to remember that any changes in your dog’s behavior or physical condition, like the bruising you noticed, warrant a trip to the vet.

While it may be challenging to watch your loved pet experience health challenges, your vet is best equipped to provide the needed medical advice and intervention. Remember, what at first glance may seem unrelated might be a crucial symptom of a larger issue. It’s always safe to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice on your pet’s wellness priority.