Hi Mae and Ray,

I just wanted to fill you in on what has been going on with Murray.

As you know, a couple of months ago he injured his back. He seemed to heal and was doing very well.

Two weeks ago he jumped off the couch and injured his back. We immediately started him back on the anti-inflammatory drug that had worked last time, but the next morining his back legs were completely immobile.

It was Sunday morning so we rushed hms to the emergency vet in Danbury. They referred us to the Katonah Bedford Veterinary Center in Bedford Hills, New York. All I can say is thank God that we have such a great facility that is fairly close to us. Murray had ruptured a disk and needed immediate surgery. Apparently, this is a hereditary disease that runs in beagles, dachunds and some other breeds (IVDD is the name of the disk disease).

Murray is doing better than expected. He is able to support his weight on his back legs, can wag his tail and can walk a bit. It will be a long recovery, but it looks like he will regain most if not all of his mobility.

One thing that has been a God send is the training that we did with you guys. It is extremely important that he stays calm, quiet and that he rests a lot. If he jumps or runs he could re-injure himself.

I thought that this might be something that you can pass on to other dog owners. It just emphasizes the importacet of good fundamental training.

I hope that all is well with you guys and the pups.

Keep in touch,
Carole