As I took the girls for a walk this afternoon (will post photo of that tomorrow) these two trees in the park caught my eye. I couldn’t help but think how each one reflected my feelings. The one on the left reflecting how I felt this summer grieving the loss of Frankie. Not whole, incomplete. The one on the right reflecting how I feel four months later with a new special needs doxie to love again. I feel whole and complete once again.
Joie had her first trip to my vet’s office today. Though she was a bit nervous in the waiting room, she did well once we were in the exam room. The staff fell in love with her and couldn’t believe how cute and sweet she is. I glowed. Author friends of mine, Linda and Allen Anderson, said on a post about Joie, that Joie may not know this yet but she hit the honey pot. But you know what? I really feel like it is me that hit the honey pot!
When I initially got Joie home I realized something was going on more than her hind legs not working, because when she sits it seems hard for her to hold the front part of her body up and her front legs will splay to the side… sort of like Bambi on ice. Since we don’t have previous records of the initial diagnoses we are sort of guessing with things. But Joie’s front legs are weak which my vet feels means she likely had an upper spine rupture. She is not in any pain which is a good thing.
So the recommendation is treadmill hydrotherapy. We can’t do any of that though until the infection on her belly heals which will be another 2-3 weeks. I’ve already contacted a specialist that is about two hours from me who specializes in IVDD and therapy for this disease. I’ll be making an appointment once I know Joie’s tummy be well enough should she suggest a hydrotherapy session our first visit there. The great part is this specialist, Dr. Morgan, is who I saw years ago when Frankie was first diagnosed with IVDD. She is so kind and sweet. She is also very good at working with clients who wish to do much of the physical therapy at home to help keep cost down, as well as since this is not close to home for me, it will help with that too. Besides, I must say when I did PT for Frankie years ago after her initial diagnoses I really enjoyed doing that for her. So here we go again! Linda, founder of Dodgerslist also provided me an excellent article on water therapy.
I had the vet look at Joie in what used to be Frankie’s wheelchair to get his recommendations on fitting, which yes, it needs to be adjusted in length and height. Luckily my hubby who was a machinist for 14 years building million dollar paper converting machines, can absolutely take care of. We will also consult with Eddie’s Wheels to make sure we are doing things correctly so the wheelchair supports her spine the best it can. But again, her tummy first needs to heal so that is my priority the next 2-3 weeks. I’m anxious to help her on her way to whatever the extent of her recovery is going to be and I have a feeling once she is up and running she will be like a rocket!
Bottom line? I’m much more prepared for this than I was over seven years ago when Frankie was first diagnosed. I can’t say I feel like a pro, but at least I don’t have the stress of all the unknowns.
Thank you to everyone who has left comments on my Facebook page as well as on my post announcing Joie into our lives. Wow, you blew me away with all the love and support. Joie is one lucky dog to have so many who already love her. Thank you.
I remember after Frankie passed away and how many people commented how Frankie completed me. It was so true. Having Joie to now love and care for has made me complete again. It has only affirmed for me once again that having animals in my life is what brings me my purest and deepest joy.
Many have asked how Kylie and Joie are adapting to each other. They are doing well. Saturday evening and most of Sunday Joie was unsure of Kylie– wanting to be sure that Kylie is not a threat to her. She barks and barks when Kylie makes a move, but Kylie wags her tail and and is very calm. Doing just what she should. Kylie has always been very laid back and this is helping Joie feel more comfortable around her. The barking is already beginning to subside. They are learning to live with each other.
Looking forward to taking Joie to the vet tomorrow to be sure I am doing all I can for the infection on her belly as well as to see about best time to get her walking in her wheels. All I can say is look out when she learns to use those wheels… I have a feeling she will be a flying rocket!
