Rear leg senior Golden Tripawd Thistle benefits from canine rehab evaluation thanks to Tripawds Foundation Rehab Grant #158. Thistle’s free consultation and at-home rehab exercises help him stay strong and fit. Read his 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.
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Canine Rehab Helps Senior Golden Tripawd Thistle
We faced a challenge with Thistle, our 13-year-old senior Golden Retriever Tripawd. A tumor on his right rear leg proved elusive for diagnosis and returned a year after surgery to remove it. It led to a painful abscess that left a gaping wound, prompting us to consider amputation. While the decision was daunting, discovering the Tripawds site, book, and resources provided us with valuable insights. Armed with this knowledge, we proceeded with the surgery, feeling more assured about the path ahead for Thistle’s well-being.
A few weeks after surgery, Thistle started rehab to regain his strength. One of the primary focuses is to bolster his core, which is crucial for the proper utilization of his remaining rear leg. He is using the underwater treadmill to re-learn proper movement.
Thistle’s At Home Rehab Regimen
Thistle also has targeted exercises to do, such as:
- Sits to Downs (2 sets of 6-8 reps, daily)
- Cookie Stretches (3 times daily for 2-3 minutes)
- Pole Stepping/Cavaletti (2 sets of 2-3 reps, daily)
- Side Crunches (2 sets of 6-8 reps, daily)
- Stands to Downs (2 sets of 6-8 reps, daily)
- Weight Shifting (daily)
- Balance board exercises (daily)
- Massage (daily)
We are only a couple of weeks into this process, but we are starting to see glimpses of Thistle moving more smoothly and easily. One thing we learned during rehab is the importance of helping Thistle maintain proper movement so he won’t injure himself through compensation. For him right now, that means helping to stabilize him with the harness as he moves around the property, does his cavaletti exercises, etc.
As senior Golden Tripawd Thistle continues his rehabilitation, we remain dedicated to providing him with all the care and support he needs. He shows us the joy of cherishing every moment with our beloved furry friends.
Our rehab clinic: Circle Oak Rehabilitation.
Daizie Labelle, DVM and Kristen Hagler, RVT, VTS, CCRP
We are grateful to the Tripawds community for educating folks going through this process, and encouraging people to do rehab with their new Tripawds.
~ Christine, Don & Thistle