Mercy paid a visit to the Wellness Centre where she received a complete and thorough examination which included a swim trial. The range of motion for her legs actually lands in the normal category. She really showed no pain indicators with all of the fussing and even did her best to help out by chewing on the ruler if it came near enough that she could snatch it.
Miss Mercy didn't know what to make of the pool and despite being a bit frightened, she paddled away completing two laps with a short rest in between.
After she was dried off, she scampered all over the show, playing keep away with her new friends. In addition, Mercy really took ownership of the Wellness Centre's luxurious orthopedic bed. Many, many thanks to Tania for sending it along with Mercy to use at home!
Going forward, we will continue very short sessions of swim therapy accompanied by low level laser treatment. The hope being that in building both muscle mass and endurance in the pool, Mercy will be better able to more comfortably navigate her little wonky body about on her own. The laser treatment is an avenue to pain management.
We're making no changes at her foster home as yet with regard to her prescribed medications. For now, we are building a time table to see what works best for sweet Mercy.
It goes without saying that Mercy's personality is that of a joyful, happy dog. Everyone that meets her falls under her spell and wants to do all that they can to help her.
You can check out some video of Mercy doing her laps:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLruxnOYytQ&feature=channel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhSs4EHUDZ0&feature=channel
It's amazing what you're doing for little Mercy Lesley and Theo. You are truly dog's best friends!
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