Back Problems 
Back Problems Primary causes of back problems are arthritis (see section on arthritis), disc disorders, and spinal myelopathy.
“Slipped discs” are common among Dachshunds. Discs are gelatinous “shock absorbers” between the bony joints of the spinal column. When they “slip,” the fibrous shell of the disc ruptures and the jellylike substance inside spills out. The body attempts to contain this leakage and resultant inflammation in the area with a wall of scar tissue. Limping and hindquarter weakness may develop as a consequence.
Spinal myelopathy involves a degeneration of spinal cord nerves and progressive weakness in the hindquarters.
(See chapter 10 for general dosage guidelines.)
Arnica, the popular homeopathic remedy, works well for the slipped discs that often affect this elongated breed. The remedy is useful whenever there is irritation and loss of some nerve function from localized swelling, regardless of whether the disc problem occurred recently or long ago. Arnica does not restore the disc to its previous position, but it helps repair injuries, even old ones, as well as old surgical wounds. It helps also to restore nerve function.
After interference with the nervous system and the development of scar tissue, animals start limping, dragging their hindquarters, or showing signs of pain. It is at this point that veterinary help is usually sought. By then there is often considerable calcification of the inflamed tissue around the affected joint. Unless an animal is treated surgically within twenty-four hours after a fall or accident or some other incident that damaged the disc, chances of a successful operation are minimal. Usually veterinarians don’t see animals that soon because pet owners are not immediately aware of any changes.
If the disc just “slipped,” use Arnica 12C. Place a few drops or pellets in the mouth twice a day. Usually improvement is seen after the first or second dose. Within a few days animals often appear normal again. If so, stop remedy. If no improvement is seen after second dose, and you are considering surgery, consult with a veterinarian immediately.
For existing conditions, use Arnica 30C long-term. Place a few drops or pellets in the mouth once or even twice a day for first week. Watch for an effect. You may not see a major difference at first. But something as subtle as a dog wagging its tail, where it wasn’t doing that before, is a sign of improvement. Then stop the remedy and observe if the improvement continues. You may have to administer the Arnica again.
I see many German Shepherds with this problem. The standard treatment includes anti-inflammatory and steroid drugs, but results are mediocre. Moreover, I have found that steroid treatment tends to make animals less responsive to other supportive approaches.
I am able to slow down the progression of this condition and start the healing ball rolling with an approach that nourishes the digestive tract. It features the amino acid glutamine, digestive enzymes, and a good probiotic supplement. I strongly believe that gut disorders play a big role in this problem. These supplements can be given along with whatever individualized treatment program your veterinarian may recommend.
Glutamine: All animals, 500 milligrams twice daily with meals.
Digestive enzymes: Follow label instructions for pet products.
Probiotic: Adjust the dosage according to the animal’s size if using a human product.
I treat this condition, as in arthritis, with a broad approach of acupuncture, chiropractic, diet, supplements, and homeopathy (see Tiekert’s entry under arthritis).
Vertebral disc disease is usually caused by arthritis. Long-backed dogs such as Dachshunds are particularly susceptible, as are small breeds such as Shih Tzus, Lhasas, and Poodles. As spinal tissue becomes inflamed, animals develop pain and stiffness in the hindquarters. This can progress into paralysis. If the condition becomes acutely painful, see a veterinarian immediately.
Manganese and vitamin C are beneficial for animals with this problem. In my practice I use Vetri-Disc, made by Vetri-Science (800-882-9993). It is a product sold through veterinarians and contains a synergistic combination of manganese and vitamin C, plus other minerals and bovine tracheal cartilage, a source of chondroitin sulfate. These supplements may have a preventive effect, so I recommend them for animals prone to disc disease.
Chelated manganese: 5 to 10 milligrams per day.
Vitamin C: 250 to 500 milligrams.
Vetri-Disc: Follow label instructions.