Three-legged Coonhound Tripawd Zeke benefits from free canine rehab evaluation and at-home therapy thanks to Tripawds Foundation’s Rehab Grant. The consultation, and rehab exercises help Zeke 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.
Not long ago, after a routine walk with our 8-year-old Coonhound Tripawd, Zeke, we noticed something wasn’t right.
Zeke—our sweet, strong Tripawd—began tilting his remaining rear leg awkwardly as he walked. His usual confidence was replaced with hesitation and discomfort.
Tripawd Zeke’s First Steps Toward Recovery
Concerned, we immediately cut back on his walks and took him to the vet. The vet recommended physiotherapy to help Zeke regain his mobility and also prescribed Metacam to manage his pain. We saw some improvement with the medication, but we knew he needed more support.
Tripawd Zeke Begins Rehab with Touch Animal Rehabilitation
That’s when we connected with Laurel Dutrisac at Touch Animal Rehabilitation in North Bay. Zeke had his first rehab assessment on April 17.
During his initial session, Laurel provided laser therapy and guided Zeke through gentle stretches designed to realign and strengthen his rear leg muscles.
She explained how, especially as a senior dog and an amputee, Zeke was relying heavily on his remaining rear limb, which can lead to strain if not properly managed.
Tripawd Zeke Gets a Personalized At-Home Exercise Plan
We were given a set of at-home exercises focused on:
- Stretching and strengthening his hamstrings, hip flexors, and medial thigh
- Massaging these areas for about ten minutes each day, performing ten gentle repetitions per muscle group
- Using a heat pack on the inner thigh before massages, three times a day, to loosen the muscles before activity
- Supporting his knee and stretching his hamstrings to help restore balance and reduce tension
Tripawd Zeke Adjusts to a New Routine with Shorter Walks
Perhaps the biggest lesson we’ve learned through this process is that long walks—once Zeke’s favorite—aren’t the best fit for him anymore. Instead, we’ve adjusted by offering shorter, more frequent walks throughout the day, keeping him active without overexerting him.
Tripawd Zeke Is Making Progress and Wagging Again
Thanks to Laurel’s expertise and a new daily routine, Zeke is already showing signs of improvement. He’s moving more comfortably, and his tail is wagging a little higher again. Most importantly, we’re learning how to help him age gracefully—and happily—as a proud and resilient Tripawd.
— Julien, Jacinte, and Zeke
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)