Vet-Stem has successfully treated more than 2,600 tendon ligament joint injuries in horses. Small animal veterinarians have just started using the procedure.

“This is a breakthrough. The cells aren’t foreign to the body, engineered or modified in any way,” noted Dr. Robert Harman, founder of Vet-Stem. “Fat stem cell therapy avoids the ethical concerns surrounding embryonic stem cell research because our process uses the animal’s own fat to isolate adult stem cells.”

Although Sumney will not make an assessment before 30 days, the Hoovers are already pleased with how Granit is acting.

“He is ready to go,” Jane said. “We are so shocked how energetic he is after only eight days.

“My husband has been a basketcase over this,” she continued. “If it weren’t for the dog, he would be a hermit.”

Sumney said she has mixed emotions about being the first veterinarian in the area to perform the procedure.

“I’m a little anxious. If it turns out, it will be great. It would be nice if I could offer it to other clients.”