The Mission

Protecting Dogs Before Injury Happens

Every year, thousands of dogs lose the ability to walk because of a slipped disc. For breeds like Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, and Corgis, the risk is especially high. Families are left heartbroken, facing expensive surgeries and uncertain recoveries — and sometimes, the damage is permanent.

At SpineShield PLDA™, our mission is simple:
to prevent these injuries before they happen.

What Is SpineShield PLDA™?

SpineShield PLDA™ (Percutaneous Laser Disc Ablation) is a minimally invasive preventive procedure that reduces the risk of spinal disc herniation in at-risk breeds. Backed by over 30 years of research and trusted by specialists, PLDA has been proven to dramatically lower the likelihood of devastating spinal injuries.

This program was built to make PLDA more widely available — giving veterinarians the training and certification to offer it, and giving families peace of mind that their beloved dogs can live longer, healthier, and more active lives.

About Dr. Gaemia Tracy

The mission of SpineShield PLDA™ is led by Dr. Gaemia Tracy, DACVIM (Neurology) — a board-certified veterinary neurologist with advanced training in both neurology and neurosurgery.

  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine – The Ohio State University

  • Rotating Internship – Carolina Veterinary Specialists, Charlotte, NC

  • Residency in Neurology & Neurosurgery – North Florida Neurology, Jacksonville, FL

  • Advanced Training in PLDA – Oklahoma State University, where the procedure was pioneered

Over the course of my career, I’ve treated countless dogs rushed into the hospital with sudden paralysis. Too often, I’ve had to tell families that despite surgery, their dog may never walk again. Those moments are what drive this mission forward.

Why This Mission Matters

SpineShield PLDA™ was founded to:

  • Empower veterinarians with training, certification, and support to implement PLDA in their practices

  • Protect dogs and families by reducing the risk of disc herniation before injury happens

  • Change the story for at-risk breeds — from paralysis and surgery to prevention and long, active lives

This isn’t just about a procedure. It’s about keeping dogs playful, mobile, and happy — and protecting the bond they share with their families.

👉 Next Step:
Learn how SpineShield PLDA™ can help you take action today:

For Veterinarians
For Pet Owners