As told by his Mum.
On Friday 19th of November 2022, Pablo displayed signs of a spinal injury.
Pablo visited Applecross Veterinary Hospital, where he was under the amazing care of Dr Jia-Wen.
He was rushed to WAVES Emergency Service.
After much examination, it appeared that Pablo did indeed suffer from a trauma to his spine, unknown to the cause. As Pablo’s owner, I was referred to Dr Neil Gibson from Rivergum Referral Services.
After careful examination, Pablo was diagnosed with a ruptured disc in his spine. The decision was made to operate and stay in the care of Rivergum for the following 6 days after surgery.
Pablo required 24-hour care following his surgery, due to breathing difficulties and was sent to Murdoch Emergency Vet for 2 days of continued care. Once collected, Pablo was to visit Rivergum twice daily to review his progress over the next 6-week period.
Dr Gibson suggested that Pablo would benefit from Hydrotherapy following the removal of his surgical staples. He put me in contact with Active Pet Rehabilitation where I first spoke with Carmel via phone.
She was excited to meet Pablo, and for someone new to this experience, this made me feel at ease that Pablo would receive the best care moving forward.
Pablo receiving electrical therapies to improve his recovery
Today Pablo loves the ease of moving in the aqua treadmill, and being able to play safely
““Carmel made me feel at ease that Pablo was going to receive the best care moving forward.””
At Pablo’s first appointment, he became familiar with the amazing staff at Active Pet Rehabilitation in Willetton. Carmel and I had an in-depth conversation about Pablo’s injury and the success of his surgery in recovery. Pablo received fortnightly sessions at first, whilst under the observation of Dr Gibson. Within the first 6 weeks to 6 months of Pablo’s recovery, things progressed at a very slow rate.
Pablo received a set of wheels to assist his independence, especially with toileting. Carmel suggested a range of exercises for Pablo after each Hydrotherapy session at Active Pet Rehabilitation. At the beginning of each Hydrotherapy session, Carmel would ask for feedback about the exercises and if I experienced any difficulties. She always has alternative exercises and other more specific ideas around Pablo’s recovery.
Pablo received a set of wheels to assist his independence
Carmel suggested a range of exercises for Pablo after each Hydrotherapy session
““Carmel suggested a range of exercises… She always has alternative exercises and more specific ideas around Pablo’s recovery.” ”
As time passed, we began lengthening the time between Pablo’s Hydrotherapy sessions, however, I felt that the therapy on a more regular basis was beneficial to Pablo’s recovery.
After much persistence over the year, Pablo began showing great improvement in his walking ability. As we near two years from his injury, Pablo continues to receive 4 to 6 weekly Hydrotherapy sessions at Active Pet Rehabilitation in Mosman Park and under Carmel’s care.
It's safe to say, that the dog who was showing NO signs of being able to walk again, is continuing to make amazing progress and is independently walking with the support and encouragement of Active Pet Rehabilitation. Pablo would not be the way he is without them!
“It’s safe to say, that the dog who was showing NO signs of being able to walk again, is continuing to make amazing progress and is independently walking with the support and encouragement of Active Pet Rehabilitation. Pablo would not be the way he is without them! ”
- Natalie & Pablo Pin
Pablo enjoying his aqua treadmill workout
Inspired by Pablo’s story?
If your pet is facing mobility challenges or recovering from an injury, we’re here to help. Contact us to learn more about our rehabilitation programs and how we can support your furry family members journey.
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