Success of Texas A&M–Led Clinical Trial Offers Hope for Dogs with Herniated Discs

A Game-Changing, Non-Invasive Treatment

Herniated discs are a dreaded and common condition in short-legged breeds—dachshunds, French bulldogs, and corgis, to name a few—that can lead to partial or complete hind-leg paralysis. Until recently, treatment options were limited to decompressive surgery, which is not only invasive but also financially and physically taxing for both dog and owner.

But an innovative, non-surgical treatment developed by Dr. Nick Jeffery at Texas A&M University’s College of Veterinary Medicine marks a significant shift. The procedure uses a targeted enzyme injection, administered via needle into the affected disc, dissolving the herniated material and relieving spinal cord pressure.

Clinical Trial Breakthroughs

Launched in early 2023, the clinical trial has already enrolled 54 small-breed dogs, including the iconic dachshund Oscar, the first canine patient to receive this enzyme treatment. Remarkably, Oscar was walking again within about three weeks, mirroring typical post-surgical recovery.

Results have been especially impressive for dogs that retained pain perception in their hind limbs—these dogs recovered mobility at rates comparable to surgical interventions. The treatment also offers key benefits:

Cost-effective: Enzyme injections are around six times cheaper than surgery.
Rapid recovery: Most dogs go home the same day — no extended hospitalization required.

Dr. Jeffery’s team continues to gather data and hopes to move toward FDA approval and broader availability. The hope is that general practice veterinarians will eventually be able to administer the treatment after minimal training.

Why This Matters for Pet Parents

This development isn’t just medical—it’s profoundly humane.

It provides a lifesaving alternative for dogs where surgery isn’t an option due to cost or health.
It offers a less traumatic, faster path to walking again, often within days, not weeks.
It opens the door to more accessible care, helping ensure mobility solutions are within reach for more families.

Additional Innovations in IVDD Care

Beyond enzyme therapy, other emerging treatments are gaining traction:

Tissue-Engineered Intervertebral Discs (TE-IVDs): In experimental studies with beagles, researchers implanted lab-grown discs that maintained structure, hydration, and integration, showing promise for long-term disc replacement.
Laser Disc Ablation (PLDA): Minimally invasive laser therapy used to remove damaged disc material; considered safe and potentially helpful in preventing recurrence.
Complementary therapies: Light therapy (like PEMF), acupuncture, physiotherapy, and chiropractic care can aid recovery, reduce pain, and support neurological healing.

Final Thoughts

While enzyme injection therapy from Texas A&M isn’t yet a universal solution, its current success signals hope for millions of dogs and their families. Its affordability, speed, and gentleness set it apart—potentially redefining IVDD treatment.

As this research progresses, it’s vital for pet parents to stay vigilant to early signs of back pain or weakness—time is critical. In the meantime, supportive therapies and careful management remain essential tools for keeping mobility-challenged dogs safe, comfortable, and happy.