About Us- Pug Rear Ataxia Paralysis

Dr. Kathleen Smiler’s Pug, Lily, was affected in 2005 with an almost unknown rear limb weakness at age 7.  She was fortunate to find knowledgeable diagnosis and treatment for Lily.  In the past 11 years Kathleen has increased awareness, and developed resources for Pug owners to provide long term home nursing care for their own disabled dogs. 
​        Dr. Smiler is a 1970 graduate of the Michigan State University, College of Veterinary Medicine.   Her work experience in research gives her an opportunity to combine purebred dog practice with basic investigative  science.  She has held offices in many veterinary medical organizations, and is currently the Michigan Delegate to the AVMA. She and her husband Joel, also a veterinarian, have time in retirement to work to reduce the prevalence of this very complex Pug condition. 

---