A Huddersfield couple are raising funds for their dog Mango after he suddenly lost the use of his back legs and required emergency spinal surgery.

Ben and Ellie Gardner said Mango underwent surgery for intervertebral disc disease, known as IVDD, on 22 September. He is now recovering at home while receiving medication and short physiotherapy sessions throughout the day.

The couple said Mango remains at Stage 4 and does not yet have full use or awareness of his back legs. They reported an encouraging development when he consciously passed urine outside, although they stressed that it remains too early to know how much function he will regain.

Seeing him pass urine by himself gave us a little bit of hope, but we know he has a long way to go.

Ben and Ellie said they had been overwhelmed by the support shown to Mango and were grateful to everyone who had donated or shared his story.

Treatment costs approaching £5,000

The family says the cost of Mango's care is approaching £5,000. His insurance policy has a £2,000 limit for this particular claim, leaving them to meet the remaining cost.

Further treatment could include physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, medication and specialist equipment intended to keep him comfortable and support his recovery.

The couple have created an online fundraiser to help with those costs. As the total can change, readers can see the latest position on Mango's fundraising page.

What is IVDD?

The PDSA describes IVDD as a condition in which the cushioning discs between a dog's vertebrae become hard or fragile and can slip out of place. A slipped disc can press on the spinal cord, causing pain, weakness and, in some cases, paralysis or incontinence.

The veterinary charity advises owners to contact a vet if a dog shows symptoms and to seek immediate help when pain or symptoms develop suddenly. More serious cases, including those in which a dog cannot walk, may require surgery.

Ben and Ellie hope Mango's experience will encourage other owners to check the limits and exclusions on their pet-insurance policies before an emergency occurs.

They said: "Every donation helps, and sharing his story helps too. We are so grateful to everyone who has supported him."

General information about the condition is available from the PDSA's IVDD guidance.

This report is based on information and photographs supplied by Mango's family. The article does not offer veterinary advice.