Angell Neurologist Helps Dog Regain Ability to Walk
September 9, 2010
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| DJ Puppy (above) regained his ability to walk thanks to Angell neurologist Dr. Allen Sisson. He can now frolic as he did when he was a puppy (below). |
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DJ Puppy to join more than 1,000 dogs at MSPCA-Angell Walk for Animals on September 12
Click here to register for the MSPCA-Angell Walk for Animals.
DJ Puppy, a statuesque Bernese Mountain Dog, was only two years old when he began losing the use of his rear legs. At first his legs shook then they wobbled. Soon his front legs could no longer support him and he began collapsing. His owners and veterinarians were mystified as he appeared to lose his strength. At first he fell down stairs then he could barely walk a few steps; soon standing was too much.
“The collapses continued over several weeks and, as alarming, his joy seemed to disappear as his tail and head hung down,” said DJ Puppy’s owner, Cynthia Roberts.
Following several visits to veterinary specialists DJ Puppy was referred to a board-certified neurologist that does neurosurgery, Dr. Allen Sisson at Angell Animal Medical Center. Dr. Sisson diagnosed DJ Puppy with Wobbler Syndrome, caused by a compression of the cervical spinal cord resulting from cervical vertebral instability or malformation-malarticulation. If left untreated Wobbler Syndrome could yield DJ Puppy paralyzed.
Following the diagnosis, Dr. Sisson was confident that he could help DJ Puppy once again walk proudly. The Angell neurologist had performed many surgeries on dogs suffering from Wobbler Syndrome using a relatively new technology, a ventrally placed locking bone plate to stabilize affected vertebrae. DJ Puppy underwent surgery in mid-March of 2010 and was soon on the road to recovery.
After his surgery, DJ Puppy regained his confident stride and this weekend will participate in the MSPCA-Angell Walk for Animals on Sunday, September 12 on Boston Common. He will be accompanied by more than 2,000 people and over 1,000 dogs that will help raise funds for animals in need.
“DJ now prances, runs, and stands proud – and his joy is back,” Roberts added.
For more information regarding the 30th MSPCA-Angell Walk for Animals or to register, visit www.walkforanimals.com, email walkforanimals@mspca.org, or call (617) 522-WALK (9255).
For more information regarding the Neurology Service at Angell Animal Medical Center visit www.angell.org/neurology or call (617) 541-5140.
