Dachshunds are some of the cutest, most adorable, and loving dogs on the planet. They have long backs with short legs, floppy ears, and big doe eyes. Although most dachshunds live long, healthy lives without issue, there are some of these dogs born with a genetic disease called IVDD. This causes severe back injuries for the hound and treatment often focuses on surgery.
So, what price range is a Dachshund owner looking to pay for back surgery? Depending on the type of surgery your dog needs and the severity of their injuries, the cost can start at around $3,500 and go up to as much as $10,000.
Of course, you should always speak with your vet and other Dachshund owners so you can get a well-rounded idea. It’s best to go into this fully informed before making any rash decisions.
How Much Does Dachshund Back Surgery Cost?
The price range of $3,500 to $10,000 relies on what kind of back problems your Dachshund is experiencing. And this can range from minor injuries to full-on paralysis. It’s not uncommon for a Dachshund to undergo several surgeries which can cost in an excess of $7,000 to $10,000.
Their back problems sit on a scale from one to five. If it’s a five, the dog may very well have to undergo the knife. But, if it’s less than that, you can try other possible treatments before doing something as invasive as surgery. However, if paralysis has set in, it may be wise to get the surgery.
This is why it’s advisable to purchase pet insurance. This will take the pressure of the cost off of your shoulders, especially if budget is a consideration.
What Is The Cost Of Other Treatments For IVDD?
If your Dachshund’s pain is minimal or even up to a four, there are some things you can try before attempting to undergo surgery. Remember, though, these will only manage the pain and won’t do much to cure or heal it. But, once again, this will be reliant on the severity.
Laser Treatments
Laser therapy treatments can be a lifesaver for your Dachshund. It’s effective for dogs that experience pain and inflammation. It can also be a great postoperative addition to the healing process since it helps reduce complications. It simulates the conditions that allow your dog’s body to heal itself.
The results are quick to show themselves shortly after one treatment. But, there will have to be several treatments before there are any noticeable improvements to the condition. It’s non-invasive, drug-free and there’s no anesthesia, which means it will be the least amount of stress to your dog.
Cost & Risks
This costs about $25 to $50 per treatment, which is comparable to medications and other therapies. The price will rely on the length of exposure and the severity of the dog’s condition. Treatments are usually once per week for about two months.
The only risk with doing this is that higher-powered lasers can increase the burning of the dog’s fur and skin. Lower powered lasers do not pose this kind of danger.
Doggie Physical Therapy
There are physical therapists out there that specialize in canines. Sometimes you can do some exercises at home. But, if you don’t have the setup or capacity to do so, then you can hire some help. This will be ideal for the recovery and prevention of further back problems.
On average, this costs about $100 to $200 for the initial consultation. Then there’s the cost per session, which can range anywhere between $30 and $75. Many variables determine the cost and what’s involved in the therapy for your Dachshunds such as the severity of conditions and the intensity required. These incorporate the time and effort it takes for the physical therapist to perform the work.
Painkillers & Other Meds
There are many over-the-counter and prescription medications you can give your dog to help manage their pain. These range in price greatly and depend on the type of medicine. In extreme problems of IVDD, a Dachshund may have to have opioids. These can cost as little as $20 or as much as $125 per bottle.
Painkillers
However, research has come a long way in discovering the magic that CBD oil has on your dog. This can cost as little as $45 to $100. You just put a few drops in their food each day.
Rimadyl and Codeine are often good options to give your dog as well. Rimadyl is available as an over-the-counter medication. But stronger dosages of Rimadyl or Codeine must come from your vet in the form of a prescription. A small bottle of either medication can cost as little as $35 or up to an excess of $150.
Steroids
A common prescription vets give to Dachshunds is steroids, like prednisone. These are often for temporary use immediately after surgery but you can often find them for dogs over-the-counter. Steroids cost about $40 or less for a one-month supply.
What Is The Comparison Of Alternative Treatments To Surgery?
On average, if you combine several alternative treatments in lieu of surgery, they’ll be about the same in cost. But, if you have a Dachshund that’s in severe pain or has incurred paralysis, it may be better to go ahead with the surgery. Then use the alternative treatments as postoperative procedures during your dog’s recovery.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have a general idea of how much surgery costs against the cost of alternative treatments, you can sit down and think about how you want to work things. Of course, you should confer with your vet so you can devise the best plan possible.
Even if you choose the surgery route, remember, it’s not always guaranteed. However, hundreds of thousands of dogs have been able to live a full healthy life after doing so. But with recent advancements in laser surgery, it might be better to go with that instead along with medications like CBD, steroids, and doggie physical therapy.
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