Fetch a physio, our reindeer’s in pain, dear!
HE is usually one of the fastest reindeer in Santa’s herd, but speedy Dasher is in a race against time to be ready for Christmas after injuring his leg.
The children’s favourite suffered nerve and tendon damage while out grazing and now needs intense physiotherapy.
But given his special role in the festive season, the reindeer is getting VIP treatment – with sessions taking place in the cosy comfort of his carers’ living room.
When not at the North Pole with Santa, Dasher is one of a herd of 12 at the Ayrshire Reindeer Centre, owned by Paul and Leanne Gibson. The animals make special appearances at community events and charity fairs in the run-up to Christmas.
But the Gibsons had to call in local vet Colin Greer last month after spotting Dasher was hurt. A splint cast was applied to his hind leg but he could not place his foot down properly to bear weight.
Dutch-born Lara Kats, from the Veterinary Physiotherapy Clinic, in Ayrshire, was then asked to dash to the rescue. She said: ‘It’s not every day I’m asked to see a reindeer. After realising it wasn’t a hoax, I was amused. As patients go, Dasher is one of the easiest I’ve ever had to handle, and his behaviour is impeccable, putting some of the labradors I treat to shame.’
She added: ‘Dasher doesn’t seem to be fazed by the exercises, though occasionally his antlers knock on the dining table.’
Miss Kats said that after weeks of stretching and weight-bearing exercises, Dasher was starting to find his feet.
But she warned: ‘Dasher has a long recovery ahead of him and unfortunately Santa may need to cope without him this Christmas.’