20th Jan, 2025
Jennifer Nyland praised for the “fantastic” care her nine-year-old miniature schnauzer received at Linnaeus-owned Willows Veterinary Referral Service in Solihull.
Little Leo was first admitted to the small animal hospital suffering from a serious blood disorder called immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (IMTP), with Jennifer fearing the worst.
Leo was cared for by the team and had to undergo several months of steroid treatment to combat the condition.
Unfortunately this saw him suffer from ‘steroid induced diabetes and he was once again referred to the expert team at Willows.
Jennifer added: “I knew it was only a matter time before it would happen. It can happen literally overnight with diabetic dogs.
“We first sensed something was wrong while we were out on an evening walk and Leo tripped on a drain in the road. He then tripped up a kerb when crossing the road and that was when I realised he might not be able to see.
“I booked an appointment for the next day at our local vet and they confirmed he was blind and referred him straight to the ophthalmology team at Willows.”
Willows’ Alberto Palella Gomez, a European diplomate in veterinary ophthalmology, took charge of the case andconfirmed the presence of cataracts which were secondary to Leo’s diabetes.
Alberto said: “The diabetic cataracts developed quickly (not unusual in these cases), making Leo blind, which resulted in a rapid decline of his quality of life. He was struggling to navigate himself around and was quickly becoming distressed.
“The cataracts were removed, and artificial intraocular lenses were placed. Leo responded exceptionally well to the surgery.
“He rapidly regained his vision and continues to do well three months post-surgery and is able to enjoy a normal, happy life once again.”
An overjoyed Jennifer confirmed: “Leo’s fantastic now. He is back to his normal mischievous self!”
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