K9 Carts Glossary

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Cerebellar Hypoplasia

occurs most frequently in dogs and cats where a portion of the brain called the cerebellum is underdeveloped. Symptoms may be noticed immediately at birth, but become most apparent as the animals try to move and have tremors and generally uncoordinated movement. This occurs because the cerebellum is responsible for controlling fine motor movements. The disease does not usually get better or worse with age, but most animals will learn to compensate for their problems.

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Cervical Vertebral Instability (Wobbler's Syndrome)

is a compression of the cervical (neck) spinal cord caused by instability or malformation of the cervical vertebrae. Dogs show lack of muscle coordination in the back legs, poor coordination, and and possibly neck pain. Large breed dogs, such as Doberman Pinschers and Great Danes, are most commonly affected. Diagnosis is made based on a veterinary physical exam, X-rays, and computed tomography (CT). Surgery, where indicated, is followed by intensive nursing care.

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Chondrodystrophic breed dogs

are breeds such as the Dachshund, Corgi, Pekinese, Lhasa Apsa, and Beagle. It is a form of dwarfism where the cartilage development in the long bones of the limbs is disturbed resulting in shortened legs.

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Conscious Proprioception

is the ability to know where your limbs are to place them on the ground without seeing them.

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Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Rupture

is the animal equivalent of a blown knee or anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture in man. It is one of the most common causes of lameness in the hind limbs. Large active dogs, such as Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Golden Retriever, and overweight dogs are more prone to CCL injuries. The ligament may partially or fully tear. In addition to lameness, the dog may also show signs of pain. Diagnosis can often be made by a veterinary physical examination. Surgical repair is recommended.  K-9 Cart E-Z Slings are rear handheld harnesses that may help during the early rehabilitation process.  Physiotherapy including water therapy is often used to help rehabilitate dogs after surgery.

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Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)

is characterized by the loss of cartilage at the end of the bones in a joint.  Cartilage along with joint fluid provides the lubricant for bones to move freely.  As the cartilage is worn away, the bones make contact, which is painful.  Animals with DJD may also appear stiff in the morning or after laying down for a period of time.  We seldom do joint replacement for OA in our pets.  Most owners treat the pain of DJD with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) specially designed for our pets.  Another name for DJD is osteoarthritis (OA).