Dachshund hailed a miracle dog after spinal surgery

Two-year-old Bailey, from Sparsholt, was seen by Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists, in Winchester, after developing a severe haemorrhage within his spinal cord.

This led to the formation of an intramedullary haematoma, causing severe compression and swelling. He was in severe pain, with lameness and weakness in his left foreleg, which rendered him unable to walk.

Bailey required immediate expert care and was referred to Anderson Moores.

Neurology specialist Ed Ives and neurology resident Tomas Elvira conducted intricate spinal surgery to remove the clot.

Bailey required immediate expert care and was referred to Anderson Moores (Image: supplied)

Mr Elvira said: "An MRI of Bailey’s cervical vertebral column revealed an extensive intramedullary haematoma in his spine. Different blood tests were performed to rule out possible underlying causes for spontaneous bleeding and they were all normal.

"The final diagnosis was haemorrhage occurring within the spinal cord without an identifiable cause.

"These unusual MRI findings were discussed with the owners, along with the pros and cons of medical and surgical management for the treatment of an intramedullary haematoma.

"Given the fact Bailey was severely affected and his signs were progressive, and given the possibility of an active bleeding, immediate surgical treatment was elected to give him the best chance."

The surgery involved removing a small window of bone over the top of the spinal column to expose the spinal cord.

The swollen and discoloured spinal cord was then opened, and the large intramedullary haematoma was carefully removed.

Bailey remained hospitalised at Anderson Moores for two weeks as he recovered. He was then allowed home to continue his long road to recovery with controlled rehabilitation, exercise and physiotherapy.

Sue Wood, Bailey's owner from Sparsholt, expressed her gratitude towards the team at Anderson Moores.

She said: "Bailey means everything to me and my husband. He is our miracle dog and we’re so thankful he is once again enjoying his life.

"He needed immediate surgery to stop the bleeding and relieve pressure inside the spinal cord but there was no guarantee of the outcome.

"The first few weeks after his operation were very scary but Tomas and the team kept us fully informed and managed our expectations with great empathy and Bailey is now making really good progress. The care he received at Anderson Moores was exceptional. Without them, I’m sure we wouldn’t still have a happy and lovely Bailey in our lives."