World's First Dog to Receive Prosthetic Implant Surgery Walks, Runs and Plays on New Legs

DENVER, CO -- (MARKET WIRE) -- March 6, 2007 -- Dr. Robert Taylor of the nationally acclaimed animal hospital, Alameda East Veterinary Hospital, has successfully completed a series of groundbreaking surgeries that gave an abused amputee dog the ability to walk. Triumph, a Siberian Husky, is the world's first canine to receive permanent prosthetic legs.

When Dr. Taylor first learned of Triumph's cruel amputation and incredible rescue from Turkey, he was compelled to help the four-year-old Siberian Husky, now living in a loving, and supportive home in Nashville, TN. The complicated task of developing custom artificial legs and surgically implanting them began over a year ago and required a three-phase approach. The initial implants were provided in late 2005. In 2006 Triumph returned to Colorado for follow-up visits and improvements. The most recent and final phase included another adjustment surgery that took place in December 2006. Triumph's implant surgeries are now complete and she is happily walking and running every day with her new legs.

"Triumph's journey has been truly amazing and inspiring, and I feel lucky to have been part of her success story," said Dr. Robert Taylor, DVM, MS, Alameda East Veterinary Hospital. "As the first dog to receive the permanent artificial legs, Triumph is paving the way for many other amputee dogs to receive the same treatment and enjoy a life filled with running, playing and walking."

Donations Needed

Triumph's story would not be possible without the generosity of many individuals. Outside fundraising efforts covered Triumph's travel expenses to Alameda East Veterinary Hospital in Denver, Colorado, where Dr. Taylor performed the surgery free of charge. BioMedtrix, manufacturer of veterinary orthopedic products, developed and donated the custom prosthetic implants.

Based on Triumph's success, many other dogs are now waiting in line to receive this surgery. Unfortunately, in many cases like Triumph's, this type of advanced treatment is too costly so needy dogs must rely on the generosity of individuals who donate to supporting organizations. Dr. Taylor and his team at Alameda East Veterinary Hospital already have other dogs preparing for the surgery this summer. Donations to Colorado's Helping Hands Foundation, a national charity founded by the animal hospital, are needed to support the future surgeries at Alameda East Veterinary Hospital.

The Colorado Helping Hands Foundation is a last resort for covering the cost of emergency or specialist treatment. The foundation's assistance can often facilitate a happy ending in critical situations.

Contributions can be made at www.chhf.org.

To arrange interviews contact Christy Kemp at 303-898-3390 or ckemp@dahliapr.com.

About Alameda East Veterinary Hospital

Alameda East Veterinary Hospital is a full-service hospital offering advanced veterinary care 24 hours a day, every day, since 1971. An integrated team of emergency care veterinarians, board certified specialists and general practitioners provide unparalleled, compassionate care for animals. With more than 20,000 animal visits each year, the hospital staff is renowned for delivering a wide range of life saving and general veterinary practice procedures, which continually advance veterinary care practices worldwide. Alameda East Veterinary Hospital...Your pets deserve our vets.™ Visit www.aevh.com for more information.

Contact Information: Media Contacts: Christy Kemp Dahlia Public Relations 303-898-3390 Email Contact Lauren Immel Alameda East Veterinary Hospital 303-328-7820 Email Contact