Tripawd Naia benefits from free canine rehab evaluation and at-home therapy thanks to Tripawds Foundation’s Rehab Grant. The consultation, and rehab exercises help Naia stay strong and love life on three legs. Read their story, and learn how you can get a free veterinary rehab evaluation for your dog or cat.
Yes! Tri-kitties qualify for free feline rehab too. See all Tripawds who have received free rehab sessions thanks to your support.
In the middle of January 2025 my German Shepherd mix, Naia, started limping.
About one week later my partner noticed a lump on her front leg. After receiving a confirmation of osteosarcoma from a vet late January, we had her front left leg amputated. She had her surgery in early February.
Tripawd Naia Adjusting to Life as a Tripawd
Being 90 pounds before the surgery, I was concerned about how she would adjust overall to life. After the surgery, she sounds different walking in the house.
Now we are maybe walking one half to two thirds of a mile per day where we used hike miles. Getting her in and out of the car is awkward and something we have not mastered yet.
With finding a new normal, I have been considering seeing a physical therapist. But I was nervous about the costs and ongoing visit requirements.
Tripawd Naia’s First Visit to Pawgressive Physical Therapy
We saw a canine physical therapist in late March 2025 for a consultation. Naia did not want to go in as she thought it was yet another vet visit.
But the physical therapist, Connie with Pawgressive, was incredibly supportive and understanding about Naia’s condition. She wanted to make sure Naia left physically better than she entered.
Tripawd Naia’s Therapy Session and Treatments
During the consultation Naia received shockwave therapy to her torso region, which relax her muscles in her neck, back, and front leg.
Connie performed exercises to stretch her neck which gets much tighter with the hopping she does as a 3 legged dog.
She put her on a balance board to work the fine muscles on her front shoulder and wrist strengthen.
Pawgressive also laid her down on the ground on her side and stretched each leg individually which to retain range of motion in the leg.
Tripawd Naia Learning About Stairs and Nerve Pain
Connie with Pawgressive was so helpful in knowing what to do about stairs with her time past surgery.
They were also insightful about nerve pain she started experiencing a few days before the visit.
Tripawd Naia Enjoys a Positive Experience and Looks Forward
Honestly, I was not sure about a dog physical therapist. But she was so relaxed around them right after the session which made me believe that they can help her with her daily life going forward.
I also appreciated their knowledge of 3 legged dogs which few people in my life have right now. The consultation helped my dog and made me feel less alone.
We are excited to go back. Pawgressive Steps Canine Physical Therapy—Connie Schulte is the physical therapist who saw her.
— Amelia and Naia
How to Find Rehab Therapy for Tripawd Dogs and Cats
Check Out the at Home Tripawd Rehab Program
(created by veterinary rehab therapist Dr. John Waterhouse)