Our sweet baby boy Leo was rushed to the emergency vet late last night and we were told that he needs an MRI and lifesaving spinal surgery as soon as possible or he will need to be put to sleep because of the unbearable pain. With surgery Leo is expected to recover pain free, able to walk/play again and use the restroom on his own.

Leo is a 3-year-old French bulldog full of life. He loves sunbathing, swimming in his baby pool and is the best cuddle buddy/companion anyone could ever ask for. Leo has been diagnosed with IVDD. IVDD is a spinal condition where the cushioning discs between the vertebrae either bulge or burst (herniate) into the spinal cord space. These discs then press on the nerves running through the spinal cord which causes pain, nerve damage, and paralysis. In IVDD, the discs in a dog’s spine can degenerate over the course of time or suddenly herniate. Leo’s case is severe as he is currently paralyzed in his back legs, has two ruptured discs in his spine including bruising of his spinal cord from which requires immediate surgery so he can walk again.

After surgery Leo will remain hospitalized for 2-3 days before being discharged to monitor his progress. Recovery will consist of pain meds for multiple weeks and strict crate rest for many months. Our family is absolutely devastated with his diagnosis and we are trying to find additional funding to help anyway possible. Any donation, no matter how small will help Leo gain the strength needed for a successful recovery. Any leftover donations that Leo does not require will be donated to an IVDD foundation of choice so that we can help another pet and family in need.

With Love,

Dustin and Jenna