A miniature Dachshund left paralysed by a devastating spinal condition has been given a new lease of life and the chance to play again, thanks to a specially fitted doggy wheelchair.
A New Set of Wheels Brings Back the Wag
Jafar, the seven-year-old 'sausage dog' from Hillsborough, Sheffield, was fitted with his mobility aid four months ago. The wheelchair became necessary after two slipped discs in his back left his hind legs paralysed. His owner, Gemma Crofts, 35, says he has adapted brilliantly to his new wheels and is now happily racing around and even managing the occasional tail wag.
"He’s adapting well and quite happy on his wheels," Gemma said. "It’s nice to see him playing with other dogs again." The transformation has been profound for the beloved pet, who was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), a condition unfortunately common in Dachshunds.
The Cost of Care: Savings, Stress, and Sacrifice
Jafar's journey back to mobility required major surgery in July 2024 to remove part of a vertebra. The complex operation cost £8,500, draining Gemma's savings. The aftermath demanded an immense personal commitment, with Jafar needing 24/7 care during a strict six-week bed rest period.
The stress of this intensive care regimen forced Gemma, who works for the NHS, to take a temporary break from both her work and her Masters degree in Advanced Clinical Practice. "It was probably the most stressed I have been in my life," she admitted, "but it’s worth it for my little family member."
There is hopeful progress: following the surgery, Jafar has started to move his legs again. However, Gemma explained that while paralysed, he can still feel pain in his toes, a sobering reminder of his ongoing condition.
An Appeal for Respect and Understanding
While many people have been supportive, Gemma is keen to raise awareness about the challenges faced by owners of disabled pets. She described upsetting encounters where people have pointed and stared at Jafar, making her feel "like a freak show," while others have made deeply hurtful comments.
In one distressing incident in Buxton, a group of men outside a pub shouted that she should "just put him down, love"—a stark contrast to Jafar's own happy and adjusting nature. "People say ‘aww’ and ‘how cute’ – but my dog is disabled, and it’s changed our whole life; it’s been very stressful," Gemma said.
Her message is clear: while Jafar may look dashing in his wheels, she wants the public to treat him like any other dog and to channel their curiosity with respect and sensitivity for the significant challenges they have overcome.
