Tripawd Henry benefits from free canine rehab evaluation and at-home therapy thanks to Tripawds Foundation’s Rehab Grant. The consultation, and rehab exercises help Henry stay strong and love life on three legs. 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.
Tripawd Pup Henry Takes His First Steps Toward Recovery
We recently had an unfortunate incident with our 1-year old tripawd, Henry. Henry came to us at 8 weeks old with all 4 legs, intact. He had an unfortunate slip in the bathtub at 4 months old that caused him to suffer a very complex elbow break in 3 places in his front leg.
Due to his age, the complication of surgery, the complication of recovery and the desire to make a choice that would give him the best results, with the guidance of the doctor, we chose amputation.
A New Injury and a Scary Setback
A few weeks ago Henry decided to embark on an adventure beyond his ability. He found his way onto the dining table, where we feed the cat, to help himself to the treasured cat food dish.
I caught him in the act and he panicked and jumped off the table, his weight landing fully on the front arm and sliding forward on the laminate flooring, he hurt his remaining front arm. He was barely able to stand and collapsed in pain.
We took him to the vet and she suggested it could be a spinal issue so, I decided we should see a chiropractor.
Tripawd Pup Henry Gets a Team of Experts
We found a doctor here in Gig Harbor, WA, Dr. John Duppenthaler at Gig Harbor Animal Chiropractic, who confirmed his spine was ok and referred us to Dr. Heather Misener at Ruff Day Vet and Pet Gym, also in Gig Harbor, for muscle evaluation.
At Ruff Day Vet, Dr. Heather performed a thorough evaluation and concluded that she suspected possible muscle or tendon damage in his shoulder.
- He also exhibited hyper movement in his scapula with his whole structure pulling away from his body when he tried to walk.
- She cupped his shoulder blade while having him perform back and forth motions to help strengthen his shoulder in the correct position.
- She had him slightly elevated on the front leg to help shift his weight to the rear legs, hoping to build the core muscles and create a new pattern to support his body weight differently.
- She also performed acupuncture, massage and red light therapy.
- She recommended we do the exercises at home several times a day.
Signs of Progress and Hope for Tripawd Pup Henry
At his follow up appointment 1 week later, he was already showing signs of improvement. She had him stand on a wobble disk to increase core balance and small muscle building. We now do that at home 2 times a day.
We also have carpet runners throughout the house to keep his feet from sliding on the laminate floors. He is still improving, although I believe it will be a bit of a long road to full recovery.
Henry is a trooper!
What I Wish We Had Known After Henry’s Amputation
I now believe that therapy could have helped strengthen his growing body and helped him use his arm properly, possibly making him less vulnerable to injury, had we known it (rehab) existed or had it been recommended after his amputation.
Having non-slip flooring could have also helped prevent or minimize his injury.
Thank You to Ruff Day Vet
The people at Ruff Day Vet are incredibly caring, supportive, animal lovers. They go above and beyond to get creative in their approach to finding a solution. They follow up and even consult via email if I have questions along the way.
— Kristin and Henry
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)