A HOLYWELL pooch has won a bravery award following her dramatic recovery from life-saving surgery by the neurology team at ChesterGates Veterinary Specialists.

Owners, Jane and Will Mellor, from Gwespyr, were desperately concerned when their five-year-old miniature dachshund Dixie went 'off her legs' in the spring and visited their local veterinary practice, who later referred her to ChesterGates Veterinary Specialists.

Further investigation revealed Dixie was suffering from a condition known as intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) which is sadly common in dachshunds, affecting every one in four.

This involved major surgery to remove disc material, followed by extensive physiotherapy.

Jane said: "Poor Dixie was in a great deal of pain, but once we were referred to ChesterGates the team sprang into action. Dixie had surgery the next day and spent two nights in hospital. The neurosurgeon, Lorena Martinez, explained everything really clearly to me and the nursing team kept us updated on her progress 24/7.

"Dixie has always been a very feisty and playful dog and incredibly active, so I was devastated when she collapsed."

When Dixie returned home, Jane stepped up and took over a lot of the physio herself, she even learned how to express Dixie's bladder.

Thankfully, Dixie is on the road to recovery and is up and about.

Jane also joined the IVDD UK group and got in touch with Charlotte Baldwin from Dedicated To Dachshunds With IVDD UK, who have kindly loaned her a special stroller and supportive lead and gave lots of help and support.

The charitable group Dachshund IVDD UK is dedicated to reducing the number of dachshunds being bred who may be susceptible to the disease by offering a subsidised screening programme for bitches of breeding age at ChesterGates.

Jane and Will would like to help raise awareness of this disease, especially as the breed is more popular than ever and a lot more are being bred purely for monetary purposes by unscrupulous breeders.

The surgery worked well for Dixie but this was just the start as she had to undergo a course of intensive physiotherapy and a great deal of home nursing.

Jane said: "The team at ChesterGates have been amazing. The communication was excellent throughout - explaining everything in layman's terms. I can't speak highly enough of them."

In recognition of her bravery in coping with such adversity, the ChesterGates' team awarded Dixie their Pet of the Month title.

For more information contact the team on 01244 853823.