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.