We see a lot of great dogs in our rehab but some of them shine due to their can do attitude and their family’s commitment. Buster is one of those little guys. He was rescued by his family at 8 weeks. He traveled with a truck driver from a Missouri puppy mill to NJ. Mary and Mike immediately fell in love with this little 2 lb., 3 oz. Daschund. He was very lucky as Mary is also a nurse besides a caring mom. How important this would become in the years ahead.
In April of 2012, when he was 3 years old, Buster injured his back. He underwent a left T11-12 and right L1-L2 hemilaminectomies with intervertebral disc extrusion. After months of rest and rehab, Buster was able to walk and control his bowel/bladder again.
However, in July 2013, Buster again injured his back. This time at levels L1-L4 with left hemilaminectomy performed at these levels. Buster initiated rehab with us in August 2013 about 2 1/2 weeks after his second surgery. His initial therapy focused on relieving pain and promoting healing. We were able to slowly progress to strengthening and gait training.
His gait is unsteady but his back is not painful. He is able to enjoy life with his human and canine family. Buster continues to receive acupuncture and therapy weekly. He enjoys his ½ mile in the underwater treadmill but loves the liver and beef treats the best!
Provided by:
Lisa Saez, PT, CCRT
Pamela Varga DVM, cVMA
Dalia’s Doggie Rehab, LLC, Toms River
www.dalsdogrehab.com
(732) 272-6099
