Many dogs and dog families have to deal with disc herniations, fibrocartilaginous emboli (FCE - similar to a stroke but in spinal cord), and other injuries or diseases that cause partial or complete paralysis in the legs of the dogs. Most commonly, disc herniations in the back cause the disc material to press on the spinal cord, causing paralysis of the back legs. Regardless of the cause of the paralysis, physical therapy can be extremely helpful. I have treated hundreds of dogs who were once completely paralyzed in the back legs (or all four legs) and have returned to walking all by themselves! Many veterinarians cite old statistics (such as a 50/50 chance or even only a 5% chance if your dog loses what is referred to as "deep pain") - these statistics don't factor in the much better outcomes with physical therapy. As a result, it's all too common for dog owners to assume their dogs won't ever be able to walk again. Unfortunately, this can impact a life or death decision. So, if your dog ever loses function in his or her legs, please know that with the proper veterinary and physical therapy care, it's most likely that your dog WILL be able to walk again! And I'm here to teach you all you need to know to help you achieve that goal! Whether you are local or across the country, I want to help you and your pet. A new website will be up soon with both local and long-distance service options to help you. Check back in April at http://www.pt4animals.com/.
As always, I'm taking "pawsitive steps" to help improve the lives of animals and their people...
Julie
Saturday, February 28, 2009
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