Vertebrae

Just like the skull shields the brain, the spinal cord is protected by a bony spine. The spinal cord runs through the vertebrae and provides a neurological connection between the brain and the rest of the body.  Disorders of the spine include

  • damage to the bony structure of spine- arthritis
  • damage to the muscles attached to it- trauma
  • damage to the nerves passing through the spine- slipped disc

signs of a spinal injury include weakness, pain, and inability to move. It is a painful condition and needs to be addressed immediately by the vet.