Source: Texas A&M Stories
Small breed dogs, such as dachshunds and French bulldogs, are prone to herniated discs in their middle back, which can cause partial or full paralysis in the hind legs. Traditionally, treatment involved costly and invasive decompressive surgery. However, Dr. Nick Jeffery of Texas A&M University has developed a more affordable and less invasive alternative: enzyme injections that dissolve the core of herniated discs.
Initially used to remove spinal scar tissue, the enzyme proved effective in treating disc issues. The first clinical trial in 2023, involving a dachshund named Oscar, showed promising results. A larger trial with 54 dogs confirmed the injections are as effective as surgery for dogs that retain pain perception, offering similar recovery times but with significantly lower costs and shorter hospital stays. The treatment is now available at Texas A&M’s Small Animal Teaching Hospital. Eligibility is limited to dogs aged 2–10 years, under 33 pounds, treated within three days of symptom onset.