My boy, Benjamin is healing well from his partial ACL tear. I cut back on his exercise, carried him up all stairs with a sling, help him in and out of the car, and took lots of breaks with him- and the tear is healing without surgery! Vets will tell you this only works in smaller dogs, but there is a large internet support group that believes otherwise. I got a lot of support from them. When this first happened, I was beside myself. My heart was wracked with worry and anxiety about how this could all turn out okay. Benjamin ws not weight bearing on that back leg and I live in the hills!
But we did it, we are a great team. He adjusted to the new routine beautifully. That’s the sweetness of a dog- all they need is love and connection- and they can adjust to change just fine. It’s us humans that go kicking and screaming when something is different.
Benjamin still has a body wracked with arthritis, and there are days when I have a good cry on our walks- because I imagine he must be in pain. But my boy just lives in his body with such dignity- He stands tall, walks proud..and whenever he needs to stop and take a break- he does. he listens to his body and never fights against reality. I am humbled by watching him. He might be in pain, but he loves to breathe the bay air fully, loves to greet each and every dog he passes, and loves to come over and nudge me for kisses. He loves life and does not let pain dictate his days.
Benjamin goes twice weekly to Hydrotherapy. This is a big tub filled with warm water with an underwater treadmill. It builds endurance, provides relief for his joints, and builds muscle mass. He loves it! He is like a little soldier marching along, with a job to do. Here is a picture.
