Non-Surgical Treatment for a Puppy Spinal Fracture: A Case Study

Puppy Neck Pain After a Fall: Steeley’s Emergency Referral

You’d be hard pressed to find a puppy cuter than Steeley, an energetic Australian Shepherd mix. In February, the two-month-old fell off the couch when playing with her littermate. Since she was clearly in pain, her pawrents brought her to her primary care veterinarian. 

CT Imaging Diagnosed a Cervical Spine Fracture

When the radiographs showed a possible fracture, Steeley was immediately sent to the Pet+ER  for emergency CT imaging. When the CT showed a fracture at intercentrum 2 and centrum 2 (cranial growth plates of C2), Pet+ER referred Steeley to VNIoC for specialized neurology care. 

Non-Surgical Management for a Puppy Spinal Fracture

Given Steeley's young age, surgery was not an option, and instead her treatment plan focused on a stabilization bandage of the neck and strict crate rest. 

Steeley in her first and second bandage (left and right).

Risks and Monitoring During Bandage Treatment

Steeley’s parents were counseled on the risks of such a bandage, including the risk of it slipping off of the head, rubbing wounds especially around the armpits or chin, and the formation of skin or ear infection. It was important for them to monitor her closely for any sign of change, and ensure her bandages were changed weekly until she healed.  

Weekly Rechecks and Recovery at Home

Steeley returned to VNIoC every week for a bandage change, but after the second change, a rubbing wound was found on her neck.To prevent the wound from getting worse, the bandage was removed. and Steeley finished her six week recovery plan on strict crate rest. 

Follow-Up Radiographs Showed Healing Progress

Based on her update from her primary care veterinarian, the radiographs were considered normal and Steeley was fully healed by her one-month follow-up appointment.. No further work-up with VNIoC was needed!