Dog breaks new ground with his metallic paw

A Belgian Shepherd dog called Storm has become the world's first pet to be fitted with a prosthetic paw.

It is believed to be the first time that such an operation has been carried out and could provide hope for many humans.

What makes the false limb special is that the dog's skin can grow into the metal.



The operation was carried out by Noel Fitzpatrick, a veterinary surgeon based in Farnham, Surrey, who specialises in repairing the damaged limbs of pets.

"The technology is not just the first time that the implant type has been used outside the human finger," Mr Fitzpatrick said.

He now hopes that the pioneering operation will go on to benefit victims of July 7 bombings and soldiers returning from Iraq.