A Safer Future for Dogs: How PLDA Prevents Spinal Injuries Before They Happen
If you live with a Dachshund, French Bulldog, Beagle, or Basset Hound, you already know these breeds are bursting with charm. But here’s something you may also know (and probably worry about): they’re prone to serious back problems—specifically, a condition called intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).
IVDD can strike suddenly, causing intense pain, loss of mobility, or even paralysis. And fixing it often requires emergency spinal surgery that’s stressful for your dog—and your wallet.
But here’s the good news: There’s now a way to help prevent IVDD before it starts.
Meet PLDA: A High-Tech Back Protector for Dogs
PLDA stands for Percutaneous Laser Disc Ablation—a fancy name for a simple, minimally invasive procedure that helps protect your dog’s spine. And the best part? Dr. Gaemia Tracy, a board-certified veterinary neurologist, is now offering this cutting-edge treatment at Eastern Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Center (EPVMC) in Allentown, PA.
So, what exactly is PLDA? Let’s break it down:
Your dog takes a cozy nap under anesthesia (so they snooze through everything).
Using X-ray guidance, Dr. Tracy gently places a tiny spinal needle into the disc space.
A thin fiber-optic laser slides through the needle into the center of the disc.
The laser carefully removes a small amount of disc material, reducing pressure inside the disc and dramatically lowering the risk of future herniation.
No big cuts. No muscle or bone removal. Just a quick, high-tech solution that means faster healing, less discomfort, and way fewer complications than traditional back surgery.
Why Should You Consider PLDA?
Because IVDD is no joke. One slipped disc can lead to:
✔ Sudden pain
✔ Loss of mobility
✔ Permanent paralysis
PLDA flips the script—it’s proactive, not reactive. You don’t have to wait for a back problem to appear. The best time to protect your pup is before trouble starts.
To qualify, your dog should:
✔ Be one of the at-risk breeds
✔ Be pain-free and off medication for at least two weeks
Is PLDA Safe?
Yes! PLDA has been studied and proven safe when performed by a qualified specialist. Your pup will be asleep during the whole thing, and Dr. Tracy’s expert team monitors every step.
Recovery? Lightning fast compared to traditional back surgery. Most dogs go home the next day and are back to tail wags in a week or two.
Why Choose Dr. Gaemia Tracy and EPVMC?
Here’s why this is a big deal:
Only a few hospitals in the entire U.S. offer PLDA.
EPVMC is one of them.
Dr. Tracy is the ONLY veterinarian on the East Coast trained in this advanced procedure.
He’s a board-certified veterinary neurologist with a passion for preventing IVDD, managing seizures, and tackling tough neurological conditions. Now, he’s giving pet parents like you a proactive way to protect your dog’s health and happiness.
What About Cost and Recovery?
PLDA costs far less than emergency back surgery—and recovery is so much quicker. Most pups are strutting out the door the next day (probably demanding snacks).
Is PLDA Right for Your Dog?
If you love a long-backed, big-hearted pup, PLDA could be the best gift you ever give them.
Contact EPVMC today to learn more or schedule a consultation:
📍 Eastern Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Center
7092 Beth Bath Pike, Bath, PA 18014 (Greater Allentown Area)
📞 (610) 395-0707
🌐 epvmc.com
Protect their back, keep their tail wagging!
