Vertebrae

Just like the brain is protected by the skull, the spinal cord is protected by the bony spines. The spinal cord connects the brain to the rest of the body by providing a highway and passing through multiple vertebrae. Muscles are closely attached to the spine which allows movement ad activity. Disorders of the spinal cord may include any abnormality in the bony structure of the spinal column such as arthritis, abnormality in the muscle such as trauma, and in nerves that pass through it e.g., slipped disc or intervertebral disc disease. Symptoms such as pain, inability to walk, weakness, and restlessness indicate spinal injury. The spinal injury should be treated immediately by a vet.