Syringomyelia

Syringomyelia is sometimes referred to as neck scratcher’s disease because scratching in the air near the neck is a common sign. The condition is caused by slowing of the flow of cerebro-spinal fluid because the back of the brain is extending dow.ward and obstructing the top of the spinal column.

Progression of the disease is very variable. some dogs have happy and long lives with minor symptoms and without significant deterioration until old age. Others may progress to pain and muscle weakness earlier on.there is an operation that can be performed to alleviate, has a long recovery process, and does not always work.

Do not panik if your dog scratches. she may just have a temporary itch, a fly bite, or even a flea. it is the habit of scratching hard and crying, or habitually walking and scratching at the same time, that will give you a clue that the dog needs to be examined by a veterinarian. an MRI is the only way to determine if a dog does have syringomyelia.