They say cats have nine lives, but one very lucky dog may be able to lay claim to that as well.
Graham Soawyer, of Hamilton, was distraught when his loyal, beloved Rhodesian Ridgeback Labrador cross Ziggy was hit by a car a little over a week ago.
He took Ziggy to his local vet and was referred to the University of Melbourne Veterinary Hospital in Werribee.
Dr Katherine Mitchell said that, among a long list of injuries, the nine-year-old dog was suffering from multiple severe fractures to her pelvis.
In an operation of several hours, Ziggy received screws and pins in her pelvis and was required to spend seven days recovering in the hospital.
Dr Mitchell said the treatment Ziggy received was very complicated and uncommon.
“A lot of dogs are killed or very badly injured in car accidents of this magnitude. Ziggy managed to survive the initial impact, but it left her with high-velocity injuries,” Dr Mitchell said.
“Not every owner is willing to undertake the extensive post-operative nursing requirements needed for these patients.”
For weeks after her operation, Mr Soawyer will be required to help Ziggy get around by supporting her back legs with a towel, stopping her from putting any pressure on them.
But he said he was just happy she was going to be OK.
“She’s a very loyal, affectionate and personable dog,” he said. “It’s the old story that she’s just part of the family.”
