A young cat named Candy was presented to our WVS Hicks clinic in Goa, India, as an emergency case. Her owner was extremely worried. Candy had suddenly collapsed, unable to walk, and was showing clear signs of pain and fear.
Our veterinary team immediately carried out a careful examination, including radiographic imaging, to understand what could have caused such a sudden and serious injury. What they discovered was shocking: a 3mm air gun pellet lodged in Candy’s spine.
It was clear Candy had suffered a spinal cord injury from a gunshot wound and time was critical. To prevent any further damage to her spine and give her the best possible chance of recovery, our team prepared Candy for surgery the next day.
Removing the pellet from her spine carried a high risk of causing further damage, so it required exceptional care, skill, and precision. Fortunately, thanks to extensive training, our teams are well equipped for this and the surgery was a success.
But Candy’s journey wasn’t over yet.
Following surgery, she began intensive physiotherapy and ongoing medical management to help her recover movement in her hind limbs. Slowly but surely, Candy began to respond. She regained sensation in both hind legs and, day by day, has started to re-learn how to walk.
Candy’s story is a powerful reminder of why our work matters. We’re there to ensure that there are no barriers to vital vet care when it’s needed most.