THIS paralysed pooch could give hope to thousands of disabled people such as Superman star Christopher Reeve.

Pyrenean Sheepdog, Gem, is the first canine in the world to undergo pioneering surgery which aims to restore control of her back legs and bowel.

The first stage of the operation, which is free of charge, was completed on Monday, when cells were removed from her nose by expert vets at Cambridge University.

These cells will be grown in a laboratory before they are inserted into the dog's spine in June.

Gem's owner, Beverley Morel, 40, of Hawthorne Road, Bickley, says if the operation is successful it will give hope to paralysed humans.

She said: "This is extremely exciting. Medically it is like being Columbus searching for the new world.

"Even if she just regains control of her bowels it could pave the way

for thousands of people who have paralysis to regain a huge part of their dignity."

Gem was hit by a car five years ago, broke her back and was expected to die within months. But specialist orthopaedic vet Tom Yarrow, at Royal Veterinary College, London, carried out heart surgery to save her life.

She never regained control of her back legs or bladder and has had to use a wheeled cart attached to her back half to get around ever since.

When mother-of-two Mrs Morel heard Cambridge University's specialist veterinary college was carrying out pioneering research into animal paralysis she asked if they would treat Gem.

After the surgery Gem will undergo physiotherapy three times a week in a dog pool at Brands Hatch designed for injured greyhounds. It will help build the muscles in her legs, which have wasted away from disuse.

She will also receive magnetic pulse therapy to help her blood flow. To follow Gem's progress visit the website http://www.naturallypaws.com

April 29, 2003 10:00