Abstract
[Purpose] The present study was conducted to evaluate dachshunds that had lumbar disc herniation with persistent gait disturbance and to assess the method of physiotherapy intervention. [Subjects] Among dachshunds with a diagnosis of lumbar disc herniation, three with severe paraplegia that could not walk unaided were the targets of this study. [Methods] We evaluated the outcome of rehabilitation for these animals and clarified problems with respect to neurological function and movement. Then we set goals for rehabilitation and devised a program to solve these problems. [Conclusions] Physiotherapy for dogs is a new field. For appropriate decision-making when performing animal physiotherapy, further clinical investigation and scientific assessment are required.
