Toby's Wheelchair

Things have been a little crazy around here lately. I started school and Toby hurt his back. I don't know how he did it, but on September 3 he started dragging one of his hind legs and by that evening his entire rear end was paralyzed. Of course, this is a holiday weekend and our regular vet was closed so I took him to a different vet. They admitted him to the hospital and started giving him IV steroids. I brought him home on Tuesday, September 7 but he still could not walk or stand.

The vet told me to keep him very quiet for at least two weeks, so he is living in his crate unless he has to go potty. I took him back to see his regular vet and she suggested that I give him oral steroids and extend his restrictions for another week. If you have ever tried to keep an active dog quiet, you know what a challenge this can be.

Today is the end of the second week. I am happy to report that Toby is eating and drinking well and he is standing now. Sometimes his paws are pads down when standing and sometimes the top of his paws are on the floor. Neither one of the vets could say how much use he will regain of his legs.

I contacted Wheelchairs for Dogs and ordered Toby a chair. Even if he regains total use of his legs, I do not want him jumping up and down on things and this is the best way to prevent him from hurting himself.

I know he doesn't look especially thrilled, but he did want around for treats. We are going to work with the chair a little each day. Toby is a very determined little dog and I think he will be roaming around soon.