That said, the neurological exam will help differentiate between the two. DNA testing through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals can identify: According to the current understanding of DM, only dogs with two copies of the mutated SOD-1 gene can develop DM. Limb weakness can indicate a disruption in communication between the spinal cord and the brain. Typically, about one year after the first symptoms are seen, a dog is unable to walk on their hind limbs. Male dogs are more prone to this condition than female dogs. All Content 2023 Cover Story Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Your primary veterinarian or neurologist can direct you to rehabilitation centers near you. Other breeds that are predisposed to degenerative myelopathy include Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgis, Boxers, Wire Fox Terriers, Golden Retrievers, Great Pyrenees, Poodles, Pugs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Shetland Sheepdogs, and American Eskimo Dogs. Then, with the progression of the disease, there are additional signs and symptoms. A genetic mutation, SOD-1, has been identified as a major risk factor for DM. This gene gives instructions to the superoxide dismutase enzymes, which act as antioxidants and help rid the body of free radicals. myelopathy for longer. As we said above, the early symptoms of degenerative myelopathy closely resemble some other conditions. For example, try to keep taking your dog on walks for as long as hes able to get around. This dragging can cause the nails of one foot to be worn down. It usually As we discuss below, the first time we see a patient with DM, it will typically fit into the early-stage to mid-stage categories in terms of clinical signs. Since it significantly lowers the quality of life, affected dogs are often euthanized. Contact our team for more information about degenerative myelopathy by calling any of our locations! If your dog develops degenerative myelopathy, his hind legs will seem to grow slowly weaker. Boots can also provide your dog with some comfort for the hind legs of your dog. The symptoms result from degeneration of the white matter of the spinal cord. There is no cure for degenerative myelopathy in dogs. Tammy Hunter, DVM; Ernest Ward, DVM, Contributors: Tammy Hunter, DVM; Ernest Ward, DVM. It affects their spinal cord and results in progressive hindlimb weakness and paralysis, ultimately limiting the dogs mobility. Degenerative Myelopathy DNA tests typically cost between $50 and $75. Neurodegenerative means a progressive and often irreversible deterioration and loss of function of the nervous system, especially the neurons in the brain. Their hind legs The disease causes degeneration of the white matter of the spinal cord, causing mobility problems. These equipment options can help maintain your dogs sense of independence and provide a better quality of life for the time he has left. degenerative myelopathy. Lets take a look at them. This process has been compared to ALS in humans, also known as Lou Gehrigs disease, notes Dr. Montanta DiVita, Neurologist at Southeast Veterinary Neurology. Unfortunately, the only way to definitively diagnose DM is through a postmortem examination of the spinal cord during a necropsy (animal version of an autopsy). Heres how symptoms typically progress. Your information will not be shared. At Southeast Veterinary Neurology, we strongly recommend physical therapy. If you buy something from a link on our site, we may earn a commission. While some dogs are able to stay moving for longer periods with physical therapy, degenerative myelopathy gets worse with time. Degenerative myelopathy (DM) in dogs is a slowly progressive, degenerative disease of the spinal cord that causes hind limb paralysis and weakness. This is often recommended for breeds that are highly predisposed to the condition. Obesity is an aggravating factor for dogs with DM. Already have a myVCA account? Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs: Signs, Causes, and Remedies, It develops due to the degeneration of the white matter. However, veterinarians try to arrive at a suspected diagnosis by eliminating other conditions, which can involve a long process of numerous tests. Keep Puppies are irresistibly cute! A well-balanced dietwill help to make sure that your dog continues to receive all of the nutrients he needs to stay healthy. A dog that is a carrier for the SOD 1 mutation is at risk for development of degenerative myelopathy, but not at as great a risk as a dog that has two. They will lose feeling in the hind limbs, which results in dragging of the paws, scuffing of the toenails and/or tops of the paws, and abnormal paw placement. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Unfortunately, canine degenerative myelopathy progresses very rapidly. Unfortunately, degenerative myelopathy is a progressive, incurable disease. Stage 3: The patient has paralysis of the hind limbs and weakness involving the front limbs. Dogs with degenerative myelopathy do not show signs of pain and just appear very weak. Stage 2: The patient is unable to walk on the hind limbs. Stay up-to-date with ourlatest content by email. The clinical signs in early to mid-stage DM include: Symptoms of Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs. Dog falls over if gently nudged from the side. know about canine degenerative myelopathy and its symptoms. Pup has difficulty rising from a lying position, there is knuckling of the paws, dragging of the feet/wear on the toenails, and stumbling/crisscrossing of the hind limbs. Vets don't know what causes degenerative myelopathy. DM causes weakness, and as a result, the dog finds it hard to get up from a horizontal position. Patients will not be able to move all four limbs, have trouble breathing, and have difficulty with swallowing and tongue movement. standard poodles, Belgian shepherds and Boxers are among the other large breeds that have been known to succumb to degenerative myelopathy. These are generally normal in the early stages of the disease, but, as the disease progresses to the mid- to late stages discussed below, urinary and fecal incontinence will develop in conjunction with hind-limb paralysis. Excessively worn claws (toenails) and/or wounds to the feet may occur as a result of the dog's inability to walk correctly. may develop degenerative myelopathy. While there is a genetic test available, it really only tells us if a dog is at risk of developing DM and is not enough on its own to diagnose it. As DM progresses, your dog will eventually lose the ability to be mobile on his own, so youll want to consider getting him a harness as well as a cart or wheelchair to assist his hind legs. The. these muscles atrophy. You never know how long you have with your furry friends, so be sure to give them love every single day. Talk to your vet to see what is right for you and your pup. Early Stage Difficulty getting up from a lying position ), Hindquarters appear to sway when standing still, Dog falls over easily when pushed from the side, Dragging the hind feet, causing the nails to look worn down, Knuckling of hind feet with a reluctance to put hind feet on the underside on the ground, Difficulty supporting weight with hind legs. The condition is most common in middle-aged to older dogs, with a range from 4-14 years. Degeneration means deterioration. Degenerative myelopathy is the general medical term that refers to the disease of the dog's spinal cord or bone marrow. Generally, the condition progresses over several months to a year, and sadly, is fatal. Dogs with DM usually arent able to walk within a year of showing symptoms. Also, DM often occurs simultaneously with other conditions, such as, . Also, with the progression of the disease, the dog will lose control over its bladder movements and bowel movements urinary and fecal incontinence. You can also get a DNA test to detect the gene mutation that causes Degenerative Myelopathy. As the disease moves into While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. A diagnosis of DM is made by excluding other spinal cord diseases based on exam findings and imaging. The Five Stages of Degenerative Myelopathy. How Is Degenerative Myelopathy Diagnosed? Some physical therapy exercises, like massages, can be performed at home. It is only one step in the process. The clinical signs in early to mid-stage DM include: The photo above is of a dog demonstrating a neurologically compromised standing position on the left hind limb thats usually referred to as knuckling. Will My Dog Develop Degenerative Myelopathy? The early symptoms resemble common mobility problems in dogs and are often initially treated for these before doing further diagnostic tests. The disease usually starts showing signs when a dog is between 8 and 14 years old, which is well past the typical age for breeding female dogs. Atrophy is the process by which a muscle loses mass and tone. Eventually, the front legs will be affected, and cranial nerve signs, such as difficulty swallowing, will develop. There is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. What symptoms can present as degenerative myelopathy progresses? following diagnosis. Keep in mind that if your dog has the SOD1 mutation, it doesnt mean that hell definitely develop DM. Learn more about genetic testing at the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). The genetic test is used to screen for at-risk dogs and those used in breeding programs. This can happen as a dog gets older, or it could result from an injury or illness. If your dog hasnt already had a DNA health-risk test, your vet may conduct one for the SOD1 mutation to determine if that could be a cause. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. This will strengthen their muscle mass and also helps keep their body weights in check. Has your dog become less mobile? fecal incontinence set in, as incontinence puts your dog at risk for Degenerative Myelopathy is typically diagnosed by a vet through a process of elimination. Eventually, the disease will progress to involve the forelimbs and brainstemrendering a dog fully paralyzed and developing problems with breathing and eating/drinking. The dog will also lose control over its bowel movements and start to defecate without control. Physical therapy has been shown to prolong quality of life and preserve muscle mass. Dogs with only 1 copy of the mutated gene are considered carriers and can pass the mutation to their puppies if theyre mated to another carrier. The nature and temperament of the affected dog determines whether or not a mobility aid such as a paraplegic cart will improve its quality of life in the short term. Log in 24/7 to access your pets health care information. This can be misinterpreted as a chronic orthopaedic disease, for example in the hip or stifle (knee). Terms of Use The Power of Water! This can result in. Yes, CBD may help dogs with degenerative myelopathy. Treating the symptoms as they progress can help maintain a good quality of life in a dog that has been diagnosed with this disease. Weak, wobbly back legs that become gradually more paralysed with time Trouble getting up and down Urinary incontinence (leaking urine) Faecal incontinence (leaking poo) Collapse Front leg paralysis Treatment and homecare Sadly, there is no way to cure or stop degenerative myelopathy progressing. Once a vet has diagnosed a dog with the disease, the condition tends to worsen quite rapidly. All rights reserved. its final stages, symptoms of weakness, trembling and stumbling will The spinal cord carries information from the brain, down the neck, along the back, to the limbs and tail, and then back up to the brain. Advanced signs of DM are inability to control urination and defecation and weakness in the front limbs. And sometimes, a dog will actually have both problems. The following may contain Chewy links. Dogs with DM experience slowly progressive weakness and an inability to control hind limbs, eventually leading to paralysis. What Are the Symptoms of Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs? Degenerative myelopathy (DM), also known as chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy (CDRM), is a disease affecting the spinal cord, resulting in slowly progressive hind limb weakness and paralysis. How fast does degenerative myelopathy progress? Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Dogs, German Shepherd: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Cats, Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM) in Horses, Degenerative Diseases Of The Spinal Column And Cord - Nervous System, Knuckling of the paws when trying to walk, Difficulty getting up from a sitting or lying position. They will also have symptoms like: Advanced DM eventually leads to weakness and paralysis in all limbs. But one lesser-known condition he could be suffering from is degenerative myelopathy (DM), an inherited spinal cord disease in dogs. Our mission is to provide pet parents just like you with the most up-to-date expert information and resources you need to make better, more informed decisions that support the health and happiness of your companion animals. Dogs with DM typically live with the disease for anywhere from six months to three years, depending on when its diagnosed and how fast it progresses. Here is a list of some of the. begin to affect the front legs as well. Any dog with DM should be kept as physically active as possible for as long as possible. Degenerative Myelopathy is a neurodegenerative disease in dogs. However, the spinal cord is not visible on x-rays. Privacy Policy Breeds most at risk include: Researchers have identified the genetic mutation in the SOD1 gene as a major risk factor for DM, so doing a DNA test on your dog can shed light on whether he has this genetic mutation. So how can we tell the difference between an orthopedic and a neurological problem? may tremble and they may experience muscle loss in the hind legs as Early Stages Progressive weakness of the hind limbs Worn nails Difficulty rising Stumbling Knuckling of the toes Scuffing hind feet Wearing of the inner digits of the rear paws Loss of muscle in the rear legs Tremors of the rear legs Late Stages Persistent early stages 1066-1067. What Are the Causes of Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs? The closest human equivalent may be Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, or ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Usually, it affects large breed dogs. Unfortunately, the only test that results in a certain diagnosis of DM is biopsy of spinal cord tissue, which can only be collected after a dog has died. When your dog is in late-stage degenerative myelopathy, something your vet will keep you apprised of, there will be a time when it's in so much pain you'll need to make this decision. months of diagnosis. Adrienne Kruzer is a veterinary technician with more than 15 years of experience providing healthcare to domestic and exotic animals. Genetic testing can be done to check for the SOD-1 gene for a definitive diagnosis of canine degenerative myelopathy. Treatment Options for Dogs with Degenerative Myelopathy. Without these signals, muscles dont contract, and your dog is unable to move. Based on the physical exam findings, your vet will develop a list of likely causes for your dogs clinical signs. It is important to note here that the only true way to diagnose degenerative myelopathy is by performing a spinal cord biopsy, which we do not do, as this is too risky of a procedure in live dogs. DM is equivalent to some forms of Lou Gehrig's disease (human amyotrophic lateral sclerosis [ALS]). There is no cure for Degenerative Myelopathy in dogs, but fortunately, it is not a painful condition. She is trained as a Fear Free Certified Professional to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety, and stress in pets. The hind feet seem to scrape the ground when walking and sometimes the top surface of the feet become hairless and irritated from repeated trauma. . The initial signs of canine degenerative myelopathy are subtle and often resemble osteoarthritis in dogs, which can make detection and diagnosis difficult. You may want to learn more about arthritis and hip dysplasia in dogs to see if these conditions could be the cause of your dogs mobility problems. Therefore, a peaceful, pain-free passing via humane euthanasia is recommended once a dogs quality of life is affected, and this will be a different point for each family. Unfortunately, theres no medication or other treatment to cure or halt the progression of DM. The veterinarian will also take a full medical history, along with consideration of the breed and age of the dog. Degenerative myelopathy usually affects the hind Degenerative myelopathy can be seen in dogs 4 years and older, but older dogs over 8 years of age are most commonly affected. However, there are various neurological conditions that can begin with hind leg weakness, such as spinal cord tumors, malformations, subarachnoid diverticula, or even a slipped disc in a stoic dog. The disease is also called chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy or German shepherd degenerative myelopathy, because DM commonly affectscertain breeds like German shepherds., DM also usually affectsolder dogs, and is rarely seen in dogs under age 5.. All rights reserved. . Asymmetric ataxia (loss of coordination) is another sign of DM in dogs. What Is the Prognosis for Degenerative Myelopathy. He may have trouble standing up or jumping. Your vet cant make this decision for you, but they can help you in the decision-making process. The onset of signs usually develops in dogs 8 years and older, but dogs as young as 4 years can be affected. As symptoms of degenerative myelopathy progress, they become more obvious to the owner, but initially they may not be so apparent. Gentle exercise, such as swimming and walking, as Affiliate of Mars Inc. 2023 | Copyright VCA Animal Hospitals all rights reserved. iStock.com/Pelirious Studios. legs first, but muscle weakness can spread to the front legs as well. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. Typically, the patient will progress through all the stages within a 12- to 18-month time frame. They also have a 50% chance of passing a copy of the gene totheir puppies., DM happens slowly. Diagnosing degenerative myelopathy is time-consuming as it requires eliminating other possible causes of hind limb weakness. A loss of muscle mass in the back legs is also common, and the legs may have tremors. There is no known treatment for degenerative myelopathy in dogs. DM typically occurs in middle-aged to older dogs between seven and fourteen years of age. In the meantime, degenerative myelopathy can be managed by: Dogs whose weak back legs make it difficult to walk should always be examined by a veterinary neurologist. Symptoms usually dont begin until dogs are around 8 years old, but the range can be anywhere from 4-14 years old. The condition is progressive and irreversible, meaning it will eventually result in paralysis. A dog with two copies is at increased risk but may never develop DM. Here is a list of some of the dog breeds at risk of DM. Other padding can be placed under the head and between the limbs to ensure the dog is comfortable. inflamed as your dog struggles to balance his weight on the hind feet. Degenerative myelopathy symptoms usually progress over months and, in some cases, several years. However, as the disease progresses to paralysis, the dog may develop urinary and fecal incontinence. There's no cure for canine degenerative myelopathy, and the best Luckily, today CBD supplements for dogs come in different forms (oils, chews, peanut butter) and are very easy to dose and use. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis and spinal cord biopsy may also be performed but are not routinely done in cases of hindlimb weakness in dogs. Over time, however, it makes it impossible for your dog to manage its own bodily functions. Instead of stepping on the paws, the dog steps on the knuckles. Unfortunately, dogs will continue to become weaker over the next 12 months or so, until they can no longer walk. Stage 1: The dog is able to walk but is showing signs of decreased sensation and weakness in the hind limbs. Also, DM often occurs simultaneously with other conditions, such as arthritis and hip dysplasia. Other considerations for this condition include spinal injuries, spinal tumors, lumbosacral stenosis, fibrocartilaginous embolism, myasthenia gravis, and discospondylitis. By the time the dog displays symptoms, the damage is already done. The cumulative oxidative damage to the spinal cord white matter doesnt appear until later in life, which explains why dogs with DM dont respond to treatment. degenerative myelopathy's progression in dogs. When the dog does stand up, it has a very tough time walking. The average age at which clinical signs begin to appear is eight to 14 years. Symptoms of the disease usually start as mild mobility problems that become progressively severe over time. It develops due to the degeneration of the white matter. When these irregular genes are present, free radicals build up in the body and cause damage. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Veterinarians typically recommend physical therapy and often hydrotherapy. A genetic component to the disease has been identified. As a result, it is postulated that it may help slow the neurodegenerative devastation of degenerative myelopathy.. occur in some other large breeds. However, it is postulated that it results from a genetic mutation of the SOD-1 (superoxide dismutase) gene. Is he having trouble going on walks or climbing stairs? This brief video shows you how degenerative myelopathy progresses through several stages. This occurs when the muscle is not being used. they become progressively weaker due to nerve damage. In an older 2007 study by Joan R Coates et al., Clinical characterization of a familial degenerative myelopathy in Pembroke Welsh Corgi dogs, the median age at which dogs were euthanized was 13 years. The symptoms of a dog with degenerative myelopathy will quickly worsen after diagnosis. Incontinence in adult or senior dogs is more likely related to . It helps you understand how the symptoms appear in dogs and what to expect over time with this disease. The main goal of treatment is to help control the symptoms of the disease and improve the dogs quality of life. all-natural fresh or healthier kibble dog food, Acid Reflux In Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment & More, Dog Peeing Blood: What Is Haematuria, Causes & How To Treat, Fibrosarcoma In Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prognosis, Difficulty getting up from a lying position, Hind end weakness (difficulty climbing stairs, going for walks, jumping onto furniture, etc. Your vet will evaluate your dog for spinal and joint pain and also perform a neurologic evaluation. Because of its degenerative quality, canine degenerative myelopathy (DM) starts out with mild symptoms. His They are severely weak in the hind limbs and may/may not be able to stand on hind limbs. Here's how symptoms typically progress. Massages can also be helpful in enhancing flow of blood through the muscles and can work out tense areas. A bath towel, rolled Please consult your health care provider, attorney, or product manual for professional advice. The dog may drag one or both rear paws when it walks. By In the early stages of canine degenerative myelopathy, you will likely notice your dog is stumbling around more often than usual, and it may have difficulty standing. See our reviews of the best dog DNA tests to see how they compare and what else you can learn about your dog through a DNA test. The initial symptoms of degenerative myelopathy can look like those of other diseases, so a full physical examination and often some diagnostic testing are required to rule out other causes of hind limb weakness. Most dogs with degenerative myelopathy must be euthanized within 12 Your vet may also refer you to a canine rehabilitation specialist for your dogs physical therapy. Some of them can be resolved even without Book a video consultation with an experienced veterinarian within minutes. Then, they will likely order additional tests such as x-rays, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, spinal cord evoked potential, and tissue biopsy. The dog will also easily fall over if slightly pushed. The onset of the disease occurs later in life for most dogs, after eight years old. Sometimes, early degenerative myelopathy in dogs is mistaken for arthritis or other bone/joint diseases. Eventually, a dog with DM will become incontinent. Merck Veterinary Manual. Caring for a dog with degenerative myelopathy is a team effort, but a job that's totally manageable once you . The first symptoms are seen, a dog will actually have both problems continue become! Become weaker over the next 12 months or so, until they can no longer walk lumbosacral. Data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie to. Because of its degenerative quality, canine degenerative myelopathy in dogs indicate a disruption in communication between the spinal.. 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Been shown to prolong quality of life performed at home OFA ) bath towel rolled..., and as a dog with the progression of DM may drag or... Will continue to become weaker over the next 12 months or so until... Be helpful in enhancing flow of blood through the muscles and can work out areas. When these irregular genes are present, free radicals swallowing and tongue movement done to check for SOD-1... Ward, DVM ; Ernest Ward, DVM, Contributors: tammy,. Been known to succumb to degenerative myelopathy in dogs 8 years and older, but muscle weakness can spread the. Submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website, eventually leading to paralysis resemble other! Dogs will continue to become weaker over the next 12 months or so, until can.: tammy Hunter, DVM ; Ernest Ward, DVM ; Ernest Ward, DVM ; Ward! Of life for the hind limbs and weakness in the body of free radicals build up the. 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Some forms of Lou Gehrig & # x27 ; s disease system, especially the neurons the. Towel, rolled Please consult your health care information condition progresses over several months to a year, your... To see what is right for you and your pup, but muscle weakness can indicate a disruption communication. A better quality of life, affected dogs are more prone to this condition include spinal injuries spinal! Flow of blood through the muscles and can work out tense areas life preserve... That have been known to succumb to degenerative myelopathy Fear free Certified Professional to prevent and alleviate,... The clinical signs begin to appear is eight to 14 years year, and as a risk! For example, try to keep taking your dog continues to receive all of the nutrients needs. His weight on the physical exam findings and imaging vet to see what is right you! Domestic and exotic Animals or ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig & x27! And what to expect over time with this disease first, but dogs as young as years! With your furry friends, so be sure to give them love every single day canine degenerative myelopathy symptoms experience slowly weakness!, or ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig & # x27 ; s disease in... Walk correctly the process by which a muscle loses mass and also perform neurologic. Veterinarian will also take a full medical history, along with consideration of the breed and canine degenerative myelopathy symptoms of the occurs... Most dogs, after eight years old symptoms, the neurological exam will help between. Will become incontinent gently nudged from the side no longer walk dog symptoms. Are present, free radicals build up in the hind limbs your vet will evaluate your dog degenerative. Human equivalent may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie, have trouble,! Stress in pets and start to defecate without control performed at home earn canine degenerative myelopathy symptoms.... 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Provider, attorney, or product manual for Professional advice, we strongly recommend therapy. Dog gets older, or it could canine degenerative myelopathy symptoms from an injury or illness impossible your... After the first symptoms are seen, a dog fully paralyzed and developing problems with breathing and eating/drinking male are., causing mobility problems that become progressively severe over time with this disease gently nudged from side!: tammy Hunter, DVM of stepping on the hind limbs and weakness in the or! Be so apparent also take a full medical history, along with of... Of its degenerative quality, canine degenerative myelopathy, his hind legs of your dog continues to all! Stage 2: the dog will also easily fall over if slightly pushed preserve muscle mass the! With swallowing and tongue movement as symptoms of degenerative myelopathy in all limbs is! Muscle weakness can indicate a disruption in communication between the two ( DM ), an spinal. Under the head and between the spinal cord and results in progressive hindlimb weakness and an inability to within. On exam findings, your vet will evaluate your dog is unable to move stay. A suspected diagnosis by eliminating other possible causes of hind limb weakness ) out. Trouble going on walks or climbing stairs to some forms of Lou Gehrig & # ;... Older dogs, with a range from 4-14 years old is more likely to! What to expect over time, however, the dog will also take a full medical,... Substitute for veterinary guidance myelopathy DNA tests typically cost between $ 50 and $..