Mister Status: Playing with tennis balls
Help Mister Cooper Marley Bella Izzy Mister walk again.
Mister became paralyzed on Christmas Eve 2022. Multiple surgeries and months of recovery gave him his life back.
This Christmas, we’re celebrating 1 year of rehabilitation!
Born this way
Short Legs and Long Backs
Dachshunds are susceptible to a host of back issues. In fact, they are the poster child for a genetic disorder called IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease).
Characterized by herniated discs in the spine, IVDD affects 1 out of 4 Dachshunds along with many other dog breeds including the Shih Tzu, Pekingese, Basset, Beagle, Corgi, and many others.
Over time, the discs in their backs weaken and rupture. This puts pressure on the spinal cord causing paralysis and various neurological issues.
Put one foot in front of the other.
With limited motion in his back legs, Mister is aided by a harness to walk. Recovery can take months following surgery.
Mister underwent a hemilaminectomy on December 26th and is likely to undergo another August 31st 2023.
What in the world is a Hemilaminectomy?
(hee-mih-lam-ih-neck-toe-me)
Dogs with severe cases of IVDD, like Mister, must receive a hemilaminectomy. This is a minimally-invasive spine surgery for removing pieces of ruptured disc material to relieve pressure on the spinal cord. Without it, many dogs are paralyzed for life.
Between surgery, MRI, hospital stays, medications, and rehabilitation, costs can range anywhere from $6,000 to $12,000. Owners often cannot afford this and have to go into debt or forego treatment entirely. In some cases, euthanasia is the only option.
At Help Mister Walk Again, we help dogs and families get the treatment they need, but can’t afford.
Love a dog.
Help a family.
The cost of IVDD treatment makes buying supplies difficult for dog owners. By partnering with us, you can help lighten the load!
