Fibrocartilaginous Embolism (FCE) in Dogs

Description of the Ailment

  • A sudden spinal cord injury caused by a fragment of disc material or cartilage blocking blood supply to the spinal cord

  • Results in acute, often one-sided weakness or paralysis

  • Non-progressive after the initial event — the damage is done instantly, and then recovery depends on spinal cord healing

  • Not typically painful after the first few hours, which helps distinguish it from IVDD

Common Causes

  • Exact cause is not fully understood

  • Believed to occur when fibrocartilage from an intervertebral disc enters spinal blood vessels

  • Often triggered by vigorous activity, jumping, or twisting motions

  • Occurs more often in large, active dogs but can affect any breed

Breeds at Risk

  • Large and giant breeds such as Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds

  • Sporting and working dogs due to high activity levels

  • Miniature Schnauzers and Shetland Sheepdogs are also reported at higher risk

  • Typically occurs in young to middle-aged adults

Possible Treatments

  • No surgical correction available — treatment is supportive and rehabilitative

  • Medical management: pain control if needed early on, bladder/bowel support if function is lost

  • Rehabilitation therapy: mainstay of care to encourage spinal cord recovery and restore mobility

Role of Rehabilitation

Early Supportive Care

  • Assisted standing, weight-shifting, and passive range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness

  • Bladder expression training or support if urinary function is impaired

  • Skin and joint protection to avoid pressure sores

Temperature Therapies, Stretching, and Recovery Massage

  • Heat therapy and massage to ease muscle tension in compensating areas

  • Gentle stretching of affected limbs to preserve range of motion

  • Comfort-focused care since FCE is not typically painful after onset

Strengthening and Stability

  • Progressive strengthening exercises tailored to the dog’s abilities

  • Proprioceptive training to rebuild paw placement and coordination

  • Hydrotherapy to support weight and encourage neurologic recovery in a safe, controlled environment

Measuring Recovery and Communication

  • Regular neurologic exams to monitor return of reflexes and function

  • Progress reports with gait analysis, strength tracking, and mobility scoring

  • Outcome measures including weight-bearing ability, coordination, and activity tolerance

  • Owner involvement through daily assisted exercise and home monitoring

Owner Education

  • Explanation that FCE is a one-time, non-progressive event (unlike degenerative myelopathy)

  • Guidance on home modifications to assist mobility and prevent falls

  • Realistic expectations: recovery can be partial or complete, depending on severity and location of the embolism

  • Emphasis on the importance of early and consistent rehabilitation for the best outcome