Home / Lifestyle / Hero Police Dog Undergoes Life-Saving Spinal Surgery
Hero Police Dog Undergoes Life-Saving Spinal Surgery
3 Jul
Summary
- Retired police dog Captain had spinal surgery due to disc degeneration.
- The Thin Blue Paw Foundation supports retired police dogs with vet treatment.
- Captain is now beginning a lengthy recovery at home.
Captain, a nine-year-old German Shepherd, has undergone extensive spinal surgery to address severe disc degeneration. The retired police dog, who served West Midlands Police for three years, experienced significant spinal damage following a cruciate ligament rupture in 2021. His condition worsened due to two degenerated discs exerting pressure on his spinal cord, necessitating a complex operation.
The Thin Blue Paw Foundation, a charity dedicated to providing veterinary care for retired police animals, supported Captain's treatment. Although fundraising efforts were initiated in 2024, the surgery was postponed until Captain could undergo therapy to strengthen him. The four-hour procedure involved repairing the damaged discs and removing bone.
Following his surgery, Captain remained hospitalized for five days before being discharged to begin his recovery at home. This extensive rehabilitation includes strict crate rest, followed by physiotherapy and hydrotherapy, to help him regain his health after his demanding career.
