A BLIND greyhound paralysed in a freak accident has made a complete recovery – and inspired his owner to look at life differently.

Three-year-old Ralph, a rescue dog who lives with his owner Alex Osborn near Malvern, had to undergo two emergency neck operations after running into a tree. 

Ralph’s injuries were so serious he lost all movement in his legs and needed the lengthy, and highly complex, operations to give him any chance of standing again, let alone walking or running. 

The dog’s road to recovery has amazed both his owner and vets, with the much-loved pet now able to walk and run freely again.

Malvern Gazette: Ralph had to have two operationsRalph had to have two operations (Image: Cave Veterinary Specialists)

Such has been Ralph’s determination to beat the odds that Alex, who owns The Old Manor Stables, a livery and competition stables, believes his dog is happier than ever. 

Alex, who himself has broken his back twice in riding accidents, said: “Ralph shouldn’t be here. 

“He’s absolutely amazing and made me look at life completely differently. If he can overcome what he’s been through then it shows anything is possible.” 

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Ralph’s recovery started when he was first rushed to his local vets, Avenue Veterinary Centre in Malvern, who then referred him for specialist treatment at Cave Veterinary Specialists in Somerset.

A CT scan initially confirmed a spinal fracture before Ralph underwent two surgical procedures.

Malvern Gazette: Ralph was a big hit with veterinary staffRalph was a big hit with veterinary staff (Image: Cave Veterinary Specialists)

Sabrina Gillespie, a European specialist in veterinary neurology at Cave, said: “It is very unusual to perform two challenging surgeries on the cervical vertebral column from above and below. 

“Ralph spent 10 days recovering at Cave and regained movement in all limbs. Just one month following surgery, he was already starting to trot around independently.”

Kim Kendal, wards team leader at the vets, said: “Everyone at Cave took Ralph to their hearts, not least the nursing team. He received round-the-clock care from our dedicated nurses who were determined to see him back on his feet.” 

Radiographer Tracy Down added: “Using our CT imaging expertise, we were able to diagnose the extent of Ralph’s injuries and advise the best course of treatment, which has now seen him make a full recovery.”

Owner Alex added: “Both Avenue Veterinary Centre and Cave have been amazing.

“Just two months back at home and Ralph’s movement is back to normal. His unbelievable recovery has given me joy and also to others who have shared his positive experience.”