Meet Kali, the eight-year-old sweet and shy Dalmatian mix. Kali had found her forever home with a loving family after a chance encounter on the internet. Kali’s family had been heartbroken after losing their previous dog, but fate brought them together with Kali, and it was love at first sight.
From the moment Kali bounded into their lives, she brought joy and excitement to her family. With her playful antics and unwavering loyalty, she quickly became an indispensable part of their lives. As the years passed, Kali watched over the family as their children grew up and ventured off to college, always there with a wagging tail and a comforting presence. Kali had a zest for life, especially when it came to going for walks. She loved nothing more than exploring the world around her, sniffing out every corner and crevice. Despite her reluctance to socialize with other dogs, Kali’s love for treats and her eagerness to learn tricks made her a star pupil.
But in January of 2024, Kali’s happy-go-lucky demeanor began to change. Her head hung low, and she seemed to tiptoe around as if in pain. Walks became a struggle; her favorite spots to sleep lost their appeal and she would only lay on the floor. After she would go on walks, she would pace for hours on end. Concerned for her, Kali’s family took her to their primary veterinarian. After numerous tests and examinations, the source of Kali’s discomfort remained a mystery. It wasn’t until they were referred to the Animal Medical Center of Seattle’s neurology department that they finally got some answers.
Our neurologist Dr. Adam Drury, performed an MRI and diagnosed Kali with a large disc extrusion in her spine called Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). IVDD is a condition where the cushioning discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column either bulge or burst (herniate) into the spinal cord space, causing pain, nerve damage, and potentially paralysis. It can affect dogs of any age, but is more common in certain breeds with long backs and short legs, such as Dachshunds.
Surgery was recommended to alleviate her pain and restore her quality of life. Despite the risks involved, Kali’s family knew they had to do whatever it took to help their beloved pup. The surgery was a success, and although Kali had to spend a few days in the hospital, she was soon on the road to recovery. Now, with her bulging disc fixed and her pain alleviated, Kali is back to her old self again. Her family couldn’t be more grateful for the care and compassion shown by our team. Kali knows she has been given a second chance at life, and she’s determined to make the most of it, one pawstep at a time.
As Kali’s tail wags with newfound joy, her family knows that their bond with their furry friend is stronger than ever. Together, they’ll continue to cherish each moment and celebrate the miracle of Kali’s journey from pain to pawsitivity.
