At SCAN, we’re privileged to work with dedicated veterinarians and determined pet families every day—but every so often, a case reminds us just how resilient our four-legged friends can be. Kiwi Norris, a sweet 2-year-old spayed female Dachshund, is one of those unforgettable patients.

The Emergency Call

On the evening of January 30, 2025, Dr. Brian Peters at Harborside reached out to SCAN after Kiwi suddenly lost the ability to walk. Just hours earlier, Kiwi had been active and mobile in her backyard. By 5 p.m., she was completely non-ambulatory with questionable to no deep pain sensation—a concerning sign of severe spinal cord injury.

Dr. Pancotto was in the hospital at the time with another emergency undergoing MRI, but after reviewing radiographs and lab results performed by Dr. Peters, we coordinated for Kiwi to arrive first thing the following morning. She received supportive care overnight including dexamethasone SP, hydromorphone, Cerenia, and gabapentin.

Rapid Response and Diagnosis

Kiwi arrived at SCAN promptly at 8 a.m. on Friday, January 31—with Dr. Peters accompanying her family. Upon exam, she was found to be deep pain negative, which carries the most guarded prognosis in spinal cord injury. After thorough discussion with her family, we moved forward with an MRI which revealed an acute disc herniation at T13-L1.

Given the urgency of her condition, Kiwi was taken straight to surgery. The procedure was smooth and successful, and she was transferred post-operatively to our colleagues at Florida Veterinary Referral Center for continued monitoring and care over the weekend.

Steps Toward Recovery

Kiwi was evaluated daily throughout the weekend by Dr. Pancotto and was seen again at SCAN before returning home. Her family was thoroughly briefed on home care, including urinary catheter management—a crucial part of recovery for patients with spinal trauma.

At her two-week recheck, both Dr. Peters and Dr. Pancotto were thrilled to see signs of progress: Kiwi was beginning to show pain response in her hind feet. Around the same time, her urinary catheter was removed. Though she experienced some unusual urination patterns, Dr. Peters quickly assessed and treated her for a urinary tract infection.

From Paralysis to Walking Again

By her six-week recheck, Kiwi had defied the odds—she was walking. Her determination, combined with early intervention and a dedicated care team, turned what began as a very serious injury into a heartwarming recovery.

A Note from Dr. Peters

Dr. Peters shared these kind words following Kiwi’s case:

“Much thanks to Dr. Pancotto and the SCAN team for getting her in right away. I just called the number on the magnet :) She is an amazing pup and I’m sure her parents are thrilled she will be featured.

SCAN has always been a great collaborative partner to us with highly skilled and compassionate doctors and staff. We are lucky to have you in Naples.

Cheers to a success story!”

Why It Matters

Kiwi’s story is a testament to the importance of rapid referral, advanced diagnostics, skilled surgical intervention, and close collaboration between veterinary teams. We’re honored to have played a part in her recovery and grateful to work alongside veterinarians like Dr. Peters who share our commitment to excellence.

Here’s to Kiwi and all the amazing pets who remind us every day why we do what we do.