IVDD - CRATE REST OR MOVEMENT?
Ted’s IVDD Journey at 16.5 Years Old
Crate Rest vs. Controlled Movement in IVDD: What Ted Taught Me About Healing
When a dachshund is diagnosed with IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease), most vets—and most of us—immediately think of strict crate rest, pain meds, or surgery. It’s the widely accepted path for good reason: minimizing movement helps prevent further damage and gives the spine a chance to heal.
But what happens when your dog is 16.5 years old and facing stage 4 IVDD for the third time?
That’s the question I had to face recently with Ted.
Ted’s Story: Stage 4 IVDD at 16.5 Years Old
Ted was suddenly unable to walk. He was in pain. He was incredibly unwell, and for a few days, we weren’t sure he’d survive.
Normally, I’d choose surgery at this stage. But because of his age, frailty, and how unwell he was, we chose the conservative route. No surgery. No crate.
Instead—I let him be.
He stayed in his bed or beside me. He moved when he wanted to. He rested deeply. I made sure he had pain relief, good food, supplements, and gentle Bowen therapy.
The Outcome? A Miracle in Motion
Within a week, Ted was standing.
Within two weeks, he was walking.
Wobbly? Sure.
But pain-free, mobile, and full of spirit.
His recovery defied expectations. It also made me reflect deeply on the two emerging schools of thought when it comes to IVDD recovery.
The Two Schools of IVDD Recovery
- The Traditional Path: Crate Rest
- 4 to 6 weeks of minimal movement
- Designed to protect the spine from further trauma
- Commonly used after surgery or during conservative care
- Still the most widely recommended method
- The Emerging Path: Controlled Early Movement
- Being adopted by some U.S. neurologists and rehab vets
- Encourages gentle, controlled mobility early on
- Backed by research into circulation, neuroplasticity, and nerve regeneration
- Usually paired with professional therapy like hydro, laser, acupuncture, or Bowen
What Does This Mean for You?
Ted’s recovery isn’t a blueprint—it’s a story.
It’s not what I would recommend for every dog. In fact, I wouldn’t advise others to skip crate rest without expert support.
But I share this to show there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
Every dog is different. Every situation is different. What matters most is:
- Pain management
- Nervous system support
- A calm healing environment
- And knowing when to let your dog lead the way (with guidance)
What Helped Ted?
- Full-spectrum hemp oil for inflammation and stress
- Bowen therapy for neural and muscular support
- Quality nutrition and supplements
- Freedom to rest and move as he chose
- Constant monitoring and intuition
In Summary:
Sometimes, love and instinct walk hand-in-hand with science.
And sometimes, a little wobbly walk is the greatest miracle of all.
If your dog is going through IVDD, we’re here for you. Browse our natural supplement range, read our IVDD support tips, and feel free to reach out.
Stay hopeful. Stay informed. And trust your gut.
With the right support, healing can happen.
Love, Jo & Ted
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