Canine anatomy is tricky to master. A dog's body is similar to the human body in some ways, and vastly different in others. The nerves in a dog's body are a vast and complex network, but are essential to know when learning canine anatomy.
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Function
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The sciatic nerve provides sensory information to the back end, pelvis and legs of a dog.
Size
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The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in a dog's body.
Location
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The canine sciatic nerve begins in a dog's spine near the point where the lumbar spine ends and the sacral spine begins. The sciatic nerve is located on the underside of the L6, L7 and S1 vertebrae. It travels through the ilium, or large pelvic bone, and continues along the dog's back and upper thigh area.
Features
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Several other nerves branch out from the sciatic nerve to supply each leg with nerve endings. Six distinct nerve branches form from the sciatic nerve and work in conjunction with it to relay information to and from the dog's brain.
Warning
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The sciatic nerve is a vulnerable nerve in the body. It can cause temporary or permanent paralysis if punctured, torn or traumatized. Care must be taken when delivering intramuscular injections to a dog's hind legs.
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