When dachshund Monty lost the use of his legs aged six, he didn’t let it slow him down.
Now seven, Monty has gained viral attention for the way he rides in a dog-sized stroller alongside his brother Charlie.
While Charlie runs ahead, Monty springs upright on his front legs, enthusiastically bouncing as if he’s racing too.
Owner Amy, 42, from Canada, told Newsweek that Monty’s signature hop is nothing new. “He’s always danced on his front feet—even when you bring him a water dish,” she said. “Now when we go for walks in the stroller, he gets even more animated. If his brother or sister runs ahead, it amps him up.”
Monty was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) last year, a condition that commonly affects dachshunds because of their elongated spines.
After undergoing treatment that included medication, acupuncture, and ten weeks of crate rest, Monty didn’t regain mobility. But his personality has never changed.
“It was devastating,” Amy said, reflecting on his sudden paralysis. “He was a healthy, happy boy. But how he’s handled these circumstances has made it so much easier—as his mom, I just had to share his joy.”
IVDD is a degenerative condition that damages the discs cushioning the vertebrae and can lead to stiffness, weakness, or full paralysis.
Dachshunds are particularly at-risk of IVDD, but so are other breeds like French bulldogs, beagles, cocker spaniels and Welsh corgis to name a few.
Veterinarians urge owners to take proactive measures to prevent IVDD, including helping dogs maintain a healthy weight, avoid jumping on furniture or stairs and using proper support when lifting dogs.
After Monty’s diagnosis, Amy came up with the perfect solution to ensure he never misses out, with his trusty stroller helping him and his brother enjoy outings together. In a video caption sharing one of the pair’s adventures, which amassed more than 900,000 views since being shared earlier this week, Amy said: “Despite being paralyzed, Monty is confident he is going to beat Charlie to the finish line. It’s all in your mindset.”
“He hasn’t lost his spirit. If anything,” she said, “he’s bouncing more than ever.”
Monty isn’t the first dog with IVDD to captures the internet’s heart. In 2024, another dog owner shared how their Labrador Bo suffered IVDD after a fall.
While specialists were able to help him to walk again, he still sometimes needs reminding that he can move. In a heartwarming video, the owner shared how she sometimes had to remind her pup he can walk.
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