A BLIND greyhound’s miraculous recovery has given himself and his owner a new lease of life after the dog was left paralysed by an accident.
Three-year-old Ralph, a rescue dog who lives with his owner Alex Osborn near Malvern, underwent two emergency neck operations at animal hospital Cave Veterinary Specialists in Somerset, after running into a tree.
Ralph’s injuries meant he lost all movement in his legs and needed lengthy and highly complex operations to give him any chance of standing again, with even less chance of walking or running.
As well as specialist surgeries, the animal hospitals’ nursing and imaging team implemented a multi-disciplinary approach to ensure Ralph received the best care.
Ralph’s road to recovery amazed both Alex and the team at Cave, with Alex’s much loved pet now able to walk and run freely again.
Alex, who owns The Old Manor Stables, a livery and competition horse stable, now believes his dog is happier than ever after beating the odds.
Ralph’s owner, who 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.”
Sabrina Gillespie, a European specialist in veterinary neurology at Cave, said: “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.”
Alex added: “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.”
