Cervical Spondylopathy

                    ----------------------

                      (wobbler syndrome)



                      General Information



Cervical spondylopathy is a spinal disorder of large and giant

breeds of dogs, such as Great Danes and Doberman Pinschers.

Various underlying disorders of the neck bones cause the

condition, including partial dislocation (subluxation) of

vertebrae, deformed vertebrae, cartilage and ligament defects,

and abnormally small openings in the vertebrae.  The origin of

these defects is unknown, but the net result is compression

(squeezing) of the spinal cord and mild to severe spinal cord

problems.  Some cases may be due to diets too rich in protein,

energy, calcium or phosphorus.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Surgical relief of spinal cord compression and/or surgical

    stabilization of affected vertebrae is the best treatment for

    cervical spondylopathy.  Without surgery, most cases recur

    and eventually become worse.



2.  Rest and anti-inflammatory drugs can help the condition, but

    unless surgery is done, cases treated medically usually

    recur.



3.  Your pet's surgeon will instruct you in home care after

    surgery.



       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Signs recur after apparent recovery.



    * Your pet develops new signs.



    * Your pet's general health changes.