10/11/2025
🐾 Oz’s Remarkable Recovery: A Story of Hope, Healing, and Heart 🐾
When Oz suddenly lost the power in his legs and his head tilted to one side, his family knew something was seriously wrong. What followed was a journey filled with uncertainty, expert care, and an inspiring recovery — all thanks to the dedication of the veterinary team and the love of those around him.
Here’s Oz’s story, shared by his devoted owner:
“Myself and my husband took Oz to the university small animal hospital in Feb 2025. He had lost power of his legs and his head was tilted over. We met Chris Skinner at the Neurology dept. As a pet owner, this was a very stressful time for us, but the compassion and professionalism of your team made an incredible difference.
We left Oz for a few days. When we returned, we could not believe our eyes. He walked over to us! Chris informed me that they had done an MRI and a spinal tap. Oz had been diagnosed with meningoencephalitis.
We left with antibiotics, steroids and a support sling to help with Oz's hind legs due to weaker muscles.
Oz continued to improve. He took his antibiotics and finished the steroids, which were monitored over the next 5 months by Chris. Chris then signed him off to continue his journey. We were absolutely delighted we had him back.
We decided that acupuncture was the best rehabilitation for Oz. This is when I met Alison Silvester at the University, who has been doing acupuncture on Oz ever since. I am happy to say that he is thriving with the treatment.
Oz has now returned to walking with his dog walker Laura, from L.A. Dog Walking two days a week up the Campsie Hills. If Oz had not been healthy with his walks from Laura I do not think he would have survived the illness, as he is nearly 14, together with Chris and Alison's superb care and expertise.
During this time of Oz's acupuncture I had a full knee replacement. I thought Oz would have to halt his treatment, as I am the only driver in the house. However Alison said she would come to the house! Alison has continued to come to the house, as Oz is so much more relaxed at home and Oz loves seeing Alison. He has continued to improve.
Overall, I am beyond delighted with the university. This starts from the friendly receptionists right up to the consultants.”
Oz’s story is a beautiful reminder of the resilience of our pets and the extraordinary impact of compassionate veterinary care. 💛
UofG School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine The University of Glasgow College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences
