Paralyzed Dog Saved From Being Put Down, Lives Happy Life with Wheelchair
Guest Contributor
This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Submit your own rescue story here. Your story just might be the next to be featured on our blog!
Maverick is a sweet little Jack Russell Terrier found laying on the ground with terrible injuries. Chris, a volunteer of our rescue, saw Maverick dragging his back legs around and called us right away. This poor dog must have been dragging himself for quite a while because he had scrapes and sores on his body. We didn’t think he had a chance of surviving.
DOG. Upon the first vet visit, it was determined that his spinal cord was severed and he would never walk again. The vet said he has no feeling and his medical care could be astronomical, estimated anywhere from $6000-$8000. Should we euthanize this poor dog? We’ve heard of stories of dogs living full and happy lives while paralyzed and using a wheelchair, so why couldn't we try?
The vet did x-rays and realized his back was broken. Also, his leg was severely broken, his spinal cord completely severed and he had no control of his bladder or bowels. We had to make a tough decision.
When I went back to see Maverick, he just melted into my hands. We knew we couldn’t fail him and promised we would help him. Against the recommendation of the neurosurgeon, we were going to save his life. He spent two nights at the emergency vet getting fluids and antibiotics. He had a CT scan which revealed something both horrifying and inspiring: his spinal injury was at least one month old. What happened to Maverick a month before he broke his leg? We will never know.
PHOTO: LINDA ROCKIt is now several months later, and Maverick has begun to move his legs. It's a miracle! Against all odds he is a happy boy, loving life, and we are so grateful we gave him a chance. He now has his wheelchair and he receives mobility therapy daily. We hope that one day Maverick will walk again! Polka Dogz Pet Rescue located in Oakland, Florida has more updates, photos and videos about Maverick and our other rescue dogs on our Facebook pages.
Story submitted by Linda Rock from Winter Garden, Florida.
Maverick’s story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Share your very own rescue story here!
