Pets: Arran the Retriever is a walking miracle after cliff fall

Mar 19 2010 by Lizzie Struthers, Irvine Herald

ARRAN the Retriever is a walking miracle after falling 20ft off a cliff.

The three-year-old pooch ran over the clifftop chasing a rabbit at Dean Castle country park in Kilmarnock.

Arran tore the ligaments in both his front legs during the fall in September.

His owner Frederick Stacey and a kind passerby had to wade in to the river below to save the injured pooch.

Mr Stacey, of Kilmarnock, said: “We had to lift Arran out of the water and it was clear that he could not stand. He was whimpering.”

Arran’s injuries were so severe that he was taken to Glasgow University’s Veterinary School for surgery and specialist treatment.

Veterinary surgeon Damian Chase said: “The ligaments holding Arran’s carpus (wrists) together were torn.

“This is in fact much worse than a broken bone as it is impossible to repair and the only treatment is to fuse both carpi so they no longer bend.”

Plucky Arran has had to spend months with his front legs in casts and splints.

Fred said: “We had to help lift Arran about when he had his casts on.

“It was traumatic for him. He is such a loveable dog so full of life and bounce but he couldn’t understand why his movements were so restricted.”

Vet Chase said: “Arran’s recovery has been a long road and he is not quite out of the woods yet.

“We have been very lucky that Arran is such a lovely boy and has tolerated all his treatment so well.

“Also Fred and Cherry are so committed and patient and have worked so hard to keep Arran rested – not an easy task.”

Arran has built his strength back up on his front legs and can now enjoy strolls lasting up to 20 minutes.

Mr Stacey said: “It is great to him walking about again wagging his tail. I keep him on a short lead and there is no running or jumping.”

Arran’s specialist treatment, which cost in the region of £7000, was covered by the Stacey’s pet insurance policy.