I realize I haven't done a Ziggy update for a while. This video is from the week before last, on Ziggy's second day (of 8) at the ISU vet school rehab center. It's the first time he has been in the treadmill without a helper in there with him. I like that he seems to be doing better with his left hind, and I'm thrilled that the right hind seems to be working just like a "real" leg!
The woman who runs the rehab center was pleased with Ziggy's progress. She said he seems much stronger than he was on his last visit (November). This makes us feel much better, as the progress day to day is imperceptible.
Around the house we've noticed that he is trying to stand more often, and sometimes gets in a flailing step or two before falling over. In his sling, he is weight bearing on his hind legs, though still needs quite a lot of support from the sling for side to side stability.
Our instructions for care are:
- Cart: Leave him in his cart more often to let him wander around (hard in our small house, but we've been using the cart in the back yard more often). I'm still thinking of getting him a custom cart, as I just can't seem to get this one to fit right. I just need to take the steps to get it done. Maybe next weekend?
- Therapy: Continue with letting him walk and stand on his own in his sling. Add standing "side crunches" to help balance core muscle strength. Get him on the ball more often. I now have 2 FitPaws peanuts and one FitPaws egg. Just need to use them...
Ziggy's attitude continues to be laid back and happy.
We continue to wonder if Z will ever really walk again. I guess only time will tell. I'll keep you posted!
If Ziggy never fully recovers, it's certainly NOT because you haven't given him the best care and opportunities. All these rehab trips are amazing to me. I don't know if I could have been so dedicated.
ReplyDeleteI'm happy to hear that Z is making some progress. Bobby and I started PT last week-very simple exercises to strengthen his core so that we can hopefully prevent re-injury to his back. I send my very best to you and Ziggy.
ReplyDeleteYou have done so much for Ziggy - I know how frustrating each day can be-- and how important it is to celebrate all of the improvements he makes!! I wanted to let you know that Gus took his CCRP exam, and photos of Ziggy were on his final presentation
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