Latest news with #IntervertebralDiscDisease
Newsweek
04-07-2025
- Health
- Newsweek
Paralyzed Dachshund Tries Running with Brother, His Efforts Melts Hearts
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. When dachshund Monty lost the use of his legs aged six, he didn't let it slow him down. Now seven, Monty has gained viral attention for the way he rides in a dog-sized stroller alongside his brother Charlie. While Charlie runs ahead, Monty springs upright on his front legs, enthusiastically bouncing as if he's racing too. Owner Amy, 42, from Canada, told Newsweek that Monty's signature hop is nothing new. "He's always danced on his front feet—even when you bring him a water dish," she said. "Now when we go for walks in the stroller, he gets even more animated. If his brother or sister runs ahead, it amps him up." Monty and Charlie on one of their walks, where Monty doesn't let his paralysis slow him down. Monty and Charlie on one of their walks, where Monty doesn't let his paralysis slow him down. @amqzak/TikTok Monty was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) last year, a condition that commonly affects dachshunds because of their elongated spines. After undergoing treatment that included medication, acupuncture, and ten weeks of crate rest, Monty didn't regain mobility. But his personality has never changed. Read more Woman defends "hardest decision" to euthanize dog over behavior Woman defends "hardest decision" to euthanize dog over behavior "It was devastating," Amy said, reflecting on his sudden paralysis. "He was a healthy, happy boy. But how he's handled these circumstances has made it so much easier—as his mom, I just had to share his joy." IVDD is a degenerative condition that damages the discs cushioning the vertebrae and can lead to stiffness, weakness, or full paralysis. Dachshunds are particularly at-risk of IVDD, but so are other breeds like French bulldogs, beagles, cocker spaniels and Welsh corgis to name a few. Veterinarians urge owners to take proactive measures to prevent IVDD, including helping dogs maintain a healthy weight, avoid jumping on furniture or stairs and using proper support when lifting dogs. After Monty's diagnosis, Amy came up with the perfect solution to ensure he never misses out, with his trusty stroller helping him and his brother enjoy outings together. In a video caption sharing one of the pair's adventures, which amassed more than 900,000 views since being shared earlier this week, Amy said: "Despite being paralyzed, Monty is confident he is going to beat Charlie to the finish line. It's all in your mindset." "He hasn't lost his spirit. If anything," she said, "he's bouncing more than ever." Monty isn't the first dog with IVDD to captures the internet's heart. In 2024, another dog owner shared how their Labrador Bo suffered IVDD after a fall. While specialists were able to help him to walk again, he still sometimes needs reminding that he can move. In a heartwarming video, the owner shared how she sometimes had to remind her pup he can walk. Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@ with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
Yahoo
07-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Dachshund's Happy Prance While Using Wheelchair for First Time Is the Cutest Thing We've Ever Seen
It's never easy watching your pet heal from an injury, and sometimes, the journey back to health takes longer than planned. During the stress of it all, time seems to slow down while you find new ways to comfort your baby. Oliver the Dachshund is healing from a disc-related disease that has him spending a lot of time resting. But now that he's getting better, his new wheelchair lets him see the world again, and he couldn't be more grateful. To fully appreciate the Dachshund's gleeful stroll, we need to roll it back to what he's been through. The sweet pup is in his 9th week of recovery since an IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) flare-up. The neurological condition, as PetMD explains, is specific to "the spinal cord, vertebrae, or back bones, and the disc material between each vertebra," and occurs when "the cushioning discs between the bones of the spinal column either bulge or burst into the space containing the spinal cord." It's painful, causing nerve damage and even paralysis. The condition is more common among pups with long backs and short legs, like Oliver, who are prone to back injuries. His treatment plan has included crate and stroller rest, physical therapies, medical management with steroid injections, the use of a back sling to help with walking, acupuncture, laser therapy, and more. Getting a wheelchair gives Oliver the chance to take the walks he missed so much, even if he can't go as long or as far as he once did. Big Doxie brother, Frank, has been a great help, ever ready to lead the way on walk and in love."It's the ears flat back. Not a care in the world," one person wrote. "Lil baby is rolling hard," another added, while another joked, "Ears in 4x4, he is ready to go." He's come a long way, but it's his positive attitude that's lighting up the world. Oliver may still have a long road ahead of him but right now, things are starting to look up. Keep going, little man! 🐶🐾🐾
