- Dog Juice
- Posts
- Revolutionary Breakthrough for Dogs with IVDD
Revolutionary Breakthrough for Dogs with IVDD
Bryan Reisberg
June 26, 2025
The Human Trial That Could Change Everything for Dogs with IVDD
Friend of the newsletter and adorable insta-famous Dachshund, Crusoe, has been battling Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) for years. Lucky for him—and maybe the world—his devoted dog dad, Ryan Beauchesne, has been on a tireless mission to find groundbreaking treatments. Last week, Ryan sent us news of a major scientific breakthrough in human spinal cord injury recovery—one that could eventually change the game for dogs like Crusoe.
What Is IVDD?
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a common spinal disorder in dogs where the discs between the vertebrae degenerate or rupture, pressing on the spinal cord and causing pain, mobility issues, or even paralysis. It’s especially prevalent in long-backed breeds like Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, and Corgis—affecting up to 1 in 5 Dachshunds.
Symptoms can range from mild stiffness to sudden paralysis. Mild cases often respond to rest and medication; more severe cases may require surgery and long-term rehab. While IVDD is not curable, early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.
The Breakthrough: NVG-291
NervGen, a clinical-stage biotech company, is developing a novel drug, NVG-291, to repair and regenerate the nervous system. In a recent human study involving individuals with chronic cervical spinal cord injuries (SCIs)—some injured up to 10 years ago—NVG-291 showed unprecedented results:
3x increase in motor signal strength to the hand compared to placebo
Significant improvements in hand strength and coordination (measured by the GRASSP test)
Safe and well tolerated by participants
This is the first time a drug has shown meaningful restoration of function in people with long-standing SCIs. The drug is believed to work by enhancing neuroplasticity, remyelination, and reducing inflammation—all of which may support natural nerve repair.
Why This Matters for Dogs
While this was a human trial, the implications for veterinary medicine—especially for dogs with IVDD or spinal trauma—are huge:
Hope for Paralyzed Dogs
Dogs with IVDD who have plateaued after surgery or rehab could regain function with a drug like NVG-291.Non-Surgical Option
If approved for animal use, NVG-291 could offer a less invasive alternative to spinal surgery.Faster Recovery in Young Dogs
Early intervention with a neurorepair drug could improve recovery outcomes for dogs with acute injuries.Already Tested in Animals
NVG-291 showed promise in rodent models, suggesting potential for cross-species use with further testing.
This could mark a new chapter in canine neurology, where nerve damage is no longer considered permanent.
The Human-Canine Handshake
Breakthroughs in human medicine have routinely shaped veterinary care—because humans and dogs share 84% of their DNA, many discoveries translate remarkably well across species. A few highlights:
🧬 Genetic Research: The Human Genome Project laid the foundation for sequencing the canine genome, leading to breed-specific disease tests and deeper genetic insights.
💉 Vaccines: Human vaccine innovation (e.g., smallpox) directly inspired canine vaccines like rabies and parvo.
💊 Drugs: NSAIDs, gabapentin, and behavioral medications started in human medicine and are now used widely for dogs.
🧠 Brain Science: Alzheimer’s research informed treatments for canine cognitive dysfunction (dog dementia).
🦴 Joint Therapies: Stem cells, PRP, and arthroscopy are now used for dogs with arthritis or injuries.
🧪 Gut Health: Research on the human microbiome spurred similar advances in canine digestive care.
In short: what helps us, often helps them. And sometimes, vice versa.
We’ll be keeping a close eye on NVG-291 and its path toward possible veterinary use. Huge thanks to Ryan and Crusoe for flagging this exciting science. It’s a powerful reminder that innovation doesn’t just move medicine forward—it carries our best friends with it.
“The Squeeze”: Dog News In 60 Seconds
