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Sara Comes Through Disc Surgery With Flying Colors

The Story Of A Dachshund's Successful Back Surgery

By Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM, About.com

As told by Paula McAllister, owner of Sara the Dachshund.

Hi, my name is Sara, and I am a 7 year old mini black and tan Dachshund, who had a very bad time of it about a year ago. My daddy noticed that I was dragging one of my back legs one day, and Mom and Dad watched me, and it was really much harder to walk or run. So Mom and Daddy took me to the special doctor in Massachusetts. They said that I had a bad disc in my back and that if they did not operate on me soon, that I would never walk again! Well, I looked at my Mom and Daddy, and of course they would have done anything to make sure I was 100% okay. The nice doctors made my back all better and I am lucky that they fixed me all up so that today I can run and play with my 2 little brothers (doxies too). I am very happy to be here with my family. Happy dog days to you.

A note from your Guide:
Dachshunds are one breed known for back (disc) problems and the problems that result from a bad disc, such as: dragging of a foot or feet, weakness or paralysis of the hind legs, painful back or neck areas, difficulty jumping up, limping, crying when picked up or reluctant to be picked up, and so on. Back problems can occur in any breed, and if any leg, back, or neck abnormalities or painful responses are noted, a consultation with your veterinarian is recommended as soon as possible. Keeping your pet at a healthy weight will reduce the wear and tear on joints and back (as well as reduce the work of the heart and other organs), and may help prevent back and joint injuries.

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