A blind greyhound who was left paralysed after running into a tree has made a miracle recovery. Three-year-old rescue dog Ralph had to have two operations to help him walk again after fracturing his spine in the freak accident.
Ralph’s injuries were so serious he lost all movement in his legs. He was rushed to his local vets, who then referred him for specialist treatment at Cave Veterinary Specialists in Somerset.
A CT scan initially confirmed a spinal fracture before Ralph underwent two surgical procedures on the cervical vertebral column – one from above and from below. His progress since has amazed both his owner Alex Osborn and the team at the Linnaeus-owned animal hospital, with the much-loved pet now able to walk and run freely again.
Sabrina Gillespie, a European specialist in veterinary neurology at Cave, said: “It is very unusual to perform two challenging surgeries on the cervical vertebral column from above and below.
“Ralph spent 10 days recovering at Cave and had regained movement in all limbs. Just one month following surgery, he was already starting to trot around independently.”
Kim Kendal, wards team leader at Cave, said: “Everyone at Cave took Ralph to their hearts, not least the nursing team. He received round-the-clock care from our dedicated nurses who were determined to see him back on his feet.”
Alex, who himself has broken his back twice in riding accidents, said: “Ralph shouldn’t be here. He’s absolutely amazing and made me look at life completely differently. If he can overcome what he’s been through then it shows anything is possible.
"Both Avenue Veterinary Centre and Cave have been amazing. Just two months back at home and Ralph’s movement is back to normal. His unbelievable recovery has given me joy and also to others who have shared his positive experience.”
