How fast do intervertebral discs degenerate and rupture?
Disc degeneration occurs relatively slowly, and a rupture may occur slowly and gradually, so that degenerated disc material slowly escapes from the disc over several days or weeks. In these cases, the dog often experiences pain and is reluctant to move. It may lie around for a few days allowing the body to try to heal the injury, often without the owner being aware that a problem existed. “Some dogs will go from normal walking to total paralysis in less than one hour.” However, discs may also rupture very acutely. Some dogs will go from normal walking to total paralysis in less than one hour.
