.comment-link {margin-left:.6em;}

TerryRoars

Monday, January 04, 2010

Adie Flinches!

In October of 2009, my brother's little dog, Adie, was stricken with sudden and complete paralysis of her hindquarters. I wrote about it in a post dated October 11. All seemed lost at first, and the family feared she'd have to be put down.

Then, Adie's mood changed. She adjusted to her situation—with the help of a ton of tender loving care from her owners—and actually seemed to become used to her new routine. The family has also adjusted: they are grateful that their sweet little dog is still with them, and yet resigned to the fact that she'll probably be in a doggie-wheelchair the rest of her life.

However, there are now new developments. Small as they seem, a flicker of hope has been lit. My niece Jessica recently wrote on her Facebook page:
Adies kicking hard! Im beginning to think she's gonna walk again!

She flinches her legs when you pinch them, or when shes laying on her back and you touch her feet she will kick you. Dad said every time he takes her potty he stands her up and he barely has to hold her and she stands. Its taking time, but we have hope!!

We have no idea if this is going to lead to more healing. But, as my brother told me, nerve damage is a strange thing. Signs of regained strength and control, flinching at sensory stimulation are all signs that the damaged nerves are regenerating. Without knowing how much more control she'll gain, the family will be happy just to know that positive things are happening now.

That great attitude and heart that makes Adie who she is has helped her in her greatest time of need.  I'm sure that my brother's family are glad Adie didn't give up on herself, and I know they're glad they didn't give up on Adie!

Labels: , , , ,

2 Comments:

  • Terry,
    My sister had a dachshund that had spinal problems and was virtually paralyzed from the waist down. The vet told her that there really wasn't anything that could be done and the options were to have the dog put down or to rig him up to one of those carts on wheels so he could move around. She did some research and found a holistic vet that does acupuncture treatments on dogs. My sister is a bit of a skeptic about such things, but she tried it and after many treatments, her dog was able to walk on his own again and actually lived to the ripe old age of 16. If they are open to it, I'd suggest giving it a try if there is a vet in their area that offers that kind of treatment.

    By Anonymous Cheryl Andonian, at 1/11/2010 9:48 AM  

  • Wow. Thanks Cheryl, I will talk to my brother about your sister's experience! He is probably a bit of a skeptic as well...as a neonatology nurse, traditional medicine is his bag. ;)

    By Blogger Terry R, at 1/11/2010 10:41 AM  

Post a Comment

Don't be afraid to comment anonymously. But, by leaving your email address, I can contact you privately and off-blog. I won't sell your name or email to anyone, I promise!



<< Home