French bulldog with slipped disc benefits from laser treatment and physiotherapy Image Meet Beau, a three-year-old French bulldog, who woke up one morning without the use of her hind limbs. Her owners took her to her vet, who immediately referred her to our Neurology and Neurosurgery service for assessment.An MRI demonstrated that the cause of Beau’s incapacity was a slipped disc in her lower back, which had bruised her spinal cord.Following her diagnosis, the team of veterinary physiotherapists in our REPAIR centre began Beau on an integrated programme of rehabilitation. Beau was initially hospitalised so that she could receive intensive physiotherapy involving massage, stretching, balance challenges and therapeutic Class IV laser treatment to aid tissue repair.Within five days, Beau regained the ability to stand unaided and urinate without assistance, so was discharged to her owner’s care. Her rehabilitation continued with a home exercise programme developed by our REPAIR team. Beau also visited our REPAIR centre weekly for specialised physiotherapy, including exercises on our under-water treadmill, to help strengthen her muscles and improve her balance.Three weeks following her injury, Beau had regained the ability to rise from sitting to standing without any help. Our veterinary physiotherapists at the REPAIR centre continue to support and challenge Beau to help her refine her movements and improve her balance, co-ordination and strength. Because of their expertise, and the dedication of her owners, Beau is now able to walk without assistance.While still weak and a little wobbly on her back legs, Beau has made a remarkable recovery and the future is now looking promising for this young dog.About the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies is a one-of-a-kind centre of excellence in clinical activity, teaching and research. Our purpose-built campus, set against the backdrop of the beautiful Pentland Hills Regional Park, is home to more than eight hundred staff and almost fourteen hundred students, all of whom contribute to our exceptional community ethos. The School comprises: The Roslin Institute The Global Academy of Agriculture and Food Systems The Roslin Innovation Centre The Hospital for Small Animals Equine Veterinary Services Farm Animal Services Easter Bush Pathology The Jeanne Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education We represent the largest concentration of animal science-related expertise in Europe, impacting local, regional, national and international communities in terms of economic growth, the provision of clinical services and the advancement of scientific knowledge. Tags HfSA Vet Publication date 15 Apr, 2023
