Thoracic spondylosis deformans in search-and-rescue dogs.

Thoracic spondylosis deformans is common and potentially progressive in SAR dogs, warranting proactive musculoskeletal monitoring.

This retrospective case series investigated the prevalence, age of onset, severity, and progression of thoracic spondylosis deformans (SD) in search-and-rescue (SAR) dogs enrolled in a 15-year longitudinal medical surveillance program initiated in 2001. A total of 127 SAR dogs were included, with thoracic radiographs reviewed by a board-certified radiologist. Results demonstrated that 63.8% (81/127) of dogs had radiographic evidence of thoracic SD, with a mean age at first detection of 8.7 years (range: 2.0–15.8 years). Severity was categorized as mild in 52.9%, moderate in 32.8%, and severe in 14.2% of affected dogs. Radiographic progression was documented in 40% of affected individuals. Multiple breeds were represented, including German Shepherd Dogs and Labrador Retrievers. Thoracic SD is classified as an enthesopathy—a disorder affecting the sites where tendons and ligaments insert into bone—and while historically regarded as an incidental radiographic finding, this study highlights its notable prevalence and potential for progression in a working dog population. The authors suggest that routine identification of thoracic SD should prompt enhanced long-term musculoskeletal monitoring and may influence clinical management strategies for SAR and other working dogs. Limitations include incomplete annual radiograph submissions, missing data points, and the absence of a control population, which restrict causal inference and generalizability beyond working dog populations.

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