Case Study: Willow the Jack Russell Terrier Cross

The Initial Challenge

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In April 2026, Willow underwent specialist spinal surgery following an intervertebral disc extrusion affecting the C6-C7 region of her neck.

The procedure involved a ventral revision surgery and decompression of the affected spinal cord, helping to relieve pressure caused by the disc extrusion. Following surgery, Willow began the recovery process at home before being referred to The Suddy Dog Rehabilitation Centre for ongoing rehabilitation and functional recovery.

Although Willow had recovered well from the surgery itself, her owners felt she needed some extra support to help her regain confidence, strength and normal movement.

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Initial Assessment

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When Willow attended her first consultation, she was bright, happy and eager to engage.

Considering the severity of the spinal condition she had undergone surgery for, her mobility was encouraging. However, our assessment identified several areas that required support as part of her ongoing recovery.

Key findings included:

• Reduced extension through the right forelimb

• Reduced muscle mass through the hind limbs

• Mild tremor affecting the right hind limb

• Reduced stability around the hips

• Ongoing neurological weakness consistent with recent spinal surgery

• Reduced confidence and stability during movement
  Although no spinal pain was detected during assessment, Willow still showed signs of compensatory movement patterns and reduced muscle engagement associated with her recent neurological injury.

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Objective Gait Analysis

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As part of Willow's rehabilitation programme, a Tendiboot gait analysis was performed to objectively assess her movement.

The assessment showed:

• Mild instability through the hind limbs

• Reduced hind limb muscle engagement

• Mild tremor in the right hind limb

• Reduced pelvic stability

• Mild forelimb asymmetry

• Ongoing neuromuscular recovery following surgery
  Importantly, the assessment found no signs of significant spinal discomfort and confirmed that Willow was making encouraging progress for her stage of recovery.

The gait analysis provided valuable baseline measurements that would allow us to monitor Willow's progress throughout her rehabilitation journey.

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A Team Approach to Recovery

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Recovering from spinal surgery requires more than simply waiting for healing to occur.

To give Willow the best possible chance of success, a combined rehabilitation programme was developed involving both hydrotherapy and physiotherapy.

The programme focused on:

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Hydrotherapy

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Weekly water treadmill sessions were introduced to:

• Improve muscle strength

• Encourage normal gait patterns

• Improve balance and coordination

• Build confidence during movement

• Reduce impact on joints while exercising

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Physiotherapy

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Working alongside hydrotherapy, physiotherapy sessions focused on:

• Improving mobility

• Reducing muscle tension

• Supporting neurological recovery

• Building core stability

• Improving strength and confidence in movement
  Together, these therapies provided Willow with an individualised rehabilitation programme designed specifically for her needs.

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Early Progress

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At the beginning of rehabilitation, Willow displayed several compensatory movement patterns that are commonly seen following cervical spinal surgery.

These included:

• Wide-based stance patterns

• Reduced cervical mobility

• Reduced hind limb engagement

• Neurological deficits affecting balance and coordination

• Muscle weakness through the pelvic limbs
  Through consistent physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and dedicated support from her owners, Willow began rebuilding strength and confidence.

Each session was tailored to her individual stage of recovery, ensuring progress was made safely while respecting the healing process following surgery.

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Owner Feedback

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"My 13-year-old dog Willow had IVDD surgery after badly herniating two discs in her neck. She recovered well but needed a little extra TLC to get her back walking properly again.

Caroline and Steven have worked wonders for her. She is coming on leaps and bounds with the help of physio and hydrotherapy. They work as a team to ensure Willow gets the best 1:1 therapy every time we visit.

I am over the moon with Willow's progress since attending Suddy Dog Rehab. I can't thank you enough for the level of support, dedication and cuddles Willow has received along the way.

If I could give 10 stars, I would."

— Willow's Owner

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Why Willow's Case Matters

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Spinal surgery is often only the first step in recovery.

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While surgery addresses the physical compression affecting the spinal cord, rehabilitation plays a crucial role in helping patients regain strength, coordination, confidence and functional mobility.

Willow's case highlights the importance of continued rehabilitation following IVDD surgery and demonstrates how hydrotherapy and physiotherapy can work together to support neurological recovery.

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Conclusion

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Following spinal decompression surgery for a cervical intervertebral disc extrusion, Willow began a carefully structured rehabilitation programme combining hydrotherapy and physiotherapy.

Through a collaborative approach involving her veterinary specialists, physiotherapist, hydrotherapist and dedicated owner, Willow has continued to make encouraging progress in her recovery journey.

Today, she continues to build strength, stability and confidence, proving that age is no barrier when the right rehabilitation plan is in place.