We have a saying on DISA’s Support Group “never say never to a Dachshund” and Bogart is one such boy. This is his journey – a lesson in determination and courage.

March 2016 saw Bogart, from the Sunshine Coast in QLD, have an IVDD incident whereby he could not walk. He was rushed to the vet and was urgently referred to a specialist for surgery. Bogart was assessed as Grade 5. He stayed in hospital for around 2 weeks. His physiotherapy started right from the beginning after surgery with increasing amounts of therapy over the next 2 weeks. Once he was home, Bogart received regular qualified physiotherapy and also exercises and massage etc at home.

Bogart had no deep pain sensation (DPS) in his rear legs but showed the ability to spinal walk whilst in hospital. He still has no DPS over 4 years later but baffles the experts by walking and running. His physiotherapist has never seen a dog do what Bogart has done to this degree. As he has grown older, he is around 12, he has aged quite a bit and no doubt his experience of IVDD has impacted him.

Bogart has always been a very determined dog; he never gives up if he wants something. His pawrents believe this has helped him to deal with the IVDD and his mobility. He enjoys a quality life and spends a bit of time outside lying in the sun or chasing birds. He is incontinent so has to wear nappies and does need cleaning up after he poops. The washing machine is kept in work washing his blankets.

The journey of Bogart’s recovery was difficult and time-consuming in the beginning but got easier as time went on. It was and still is worthwhile seeing Bogart enjoying life.

The following link will take you to Bogart’s Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/BogartDaschund/