Gemma had spinal surgery at the thoracic vertebrae 8 -9 on 30 October 2007. She had been experiencing mobility problems prior to surgery but when she came home she had no movement in her tail or hind legs.They were completely flaccid. She was not aware of pain with no response to 'deep ' pain even in the upper parts of her hind legs let alone her feet. Her owner, who has experience of rehabilitation with people decided that she would start massage and even tried to swim her in the bath to elicit a response.
Gemma came to us at the end of January 2008. She had by then received muscle stimulating treatment from Naomi Howard-Smith who is an ACPAT physiotherapist. Naomi wanted Gemma to experience independent movement which is why she recommended swimming/hydrotherapy. Gemma, a happy alert little youngster was interested in everybody and everything in the room. Physically she was moving with her front legs and dragging her legs and tail around.
In the water she demonstrated that she could use correct limb patterning . Her fitness levels were obviously compromised but she soon picked up and could swim for 2 minutes without a break. She could then stand on the ramp between swims receiving massage before having a further swim. She would lock her legs to support herself but this was all good practice.
For the next few weeks Gemma had intensive therapy. Physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and her family continued to work on her between sessions. Slow but positive progress has been made. She has regained use of her legs and tail. Sensation has returned even to her feet. Her reflex response has improved as this of course was totally lacking.
At the beginning of April Gemma has started to walk, not just from the hip but actually bending her [knee] stifle. She can walk across a room, the gait maybe ataxic at the moment but I did overhear plans for her to join the hiking trip in the Brecon Beacons later this summer!!
Gemma continues with her treatment. She is a credit to her family who have persevered with the treatments and have demonstrated such a positive attitude. You can see a short video of Gemma here (Quick Time File 2.18MB).
tel: (01495) 221204
email: info@thedogspa.co.uk
smail: Cwmnantyrodyn, Pontllanfraith, Blackwood
