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AGreat Dane came from Belgium to Hawkshead for help with a debilitating neurological condition.
Gustav’s owner had contacted Steven De Decker, Head of Neurology and Neurosurgery at RVC Small Animal Referrals and RVC Alumnus (2013), after the Great Dane had been diagnosed with osseous-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (OA-CSM), a form of ‘wobbler syndrome’ that most commonly affects Great Danes.
Gustav’s owner got in touch with Dr De Decker as he had completed a PhD on cervical spondylomyelopathy several years ago and is internationally associated with the condition. The owner found his name when doing an internet search.
Dr De Decker said: “Although the owner of Gustav contacted me because of
my recognition as a ‘wobbler-expert’, the reason I advised them to come was for the aftercare Gustav would receive here if he had surgery. For me, the most important reason for Gustav to travel from Belgium to the RVC was our team of neurology and rehabilitation nurses. This team is unparalleled – I cannot imagine another institution in the world that has such a large and specialised team of veterinary neurology nurses, including a qualified physiotherapist.
“Looking after a non-ambulatory 77kg Great Dane is extremely challenging
and all credit should go to the nurses. I normally advise these international clients to go to a local/national specialist centre or vet school, but I was concerned it would be too challenging to deliver the postoperative care elsewhere.”
After successful surgery, Gustav stayed at the RVC for several weeks, having intensive physiotherapy and hydrotherapy. Since returning home Gustav has continued to do very well and the owner keeps the team updated with his progress.
To find out more about the case, read Clinical Connections online at www.rvc.ac.uk/clinical-connections The article was in the summer 2019 issue.
CLINICAL SERVICES
From Belgium to Hertfordshire for exceptional care
Gustav with Dr Steven De Decker and RVNs Chloe Nicholas and Holly Smith
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