4/08/08

It has been one week since B Man's operation. We waited until now to begin his physical therapy so the incision on his back had time to heal. B Man was very excited to start. He loves any form of attention and does anything to keep it. He is too cute. You would never know he just had back surgery just a week ago by his upbeat personality.

We began his therapy by towel walking him outside. I chose to take him outside because the weather was beautiful and we try to make sure all therapy is fun and upbeat. I started massaging his rear legs to warm up the muscles for the physical therapy.
Next we did PROM (passive range of motion). I stand him up and take one leg at a time and move it in a bicycle motion. We do that for 15 reps. He had a good time during this because he was busy watching some of our cottage cats walk around.
Next we did the flexor. I lay him on his side and take his rear paw and spread his toes while stretching out his leg. We want him to pull back his leg from my hand. This does not always occur right away. Of course B Man was a show off and did it right away. So I thought this was wonderful.
Next was our hydrotherapy. Yes this involves water. I place him in a bathtub up to his shoulders and try to get him to walk back and forth. I think B Man is a little scared of water but he worked through it. He would get to the slightly deeper end and want to rush back to the other. So I just want to make him comfortable and try and take it slower. I did sneak in a little shampoo and give him a quick wash.
Over all I think it was a great start. I did his therapy twice today. I am hoping to work up to three. I just do not want to tire him out in the beginning. He stays so happy during all of his therapy. There is not much that breaks this little man's spirit. I just look at him and know he is such a special guy. He is really giving his all! AP

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April 6, 2008

The little angel had his surgery a week and ½ ago. We feel very fortunate that while his back was broken and healed in the broken position (about 60 degrees) it did not sever the spinal cord but did cause significant swelling. They removed approximately 20% of his spine to both straighten it and relieve the pressure on the cord. Now, he is going through recovery and intense rehab. We are not sure what his prognosis is long term but do expect his care at the hospital to continue for the next 4-6 months.

His bladder has to be evacuated several times a day. We have to be cautious of potty accidents so urine does not get on the sores he has from dragging himself around for a month and cause toxicity. We are trying to get him to strengthen his back legs in hopes he will gain some function once the swelling has gone down. He has been doing physical therapy several times a day and had been fitted for a wheelchair. We hope to receive enough money to order it soon.

He is so stoic and SO grateful. He looks like he is smiling all the time. I feel sure he has never had so much love and attention even though the circumstances are so bad.
We really do still need assistance and are accepting donations via telephone or via mail.

If you know anyone interested in making a contribution, I can be reached at:

Pampered Paws
662-236-9500 option 2
or via mail

Pampered Paws
Lumpy Angel Rescue Fund
Attn: Kellie Owens
226 CR 162
Oxford, MS 38655

Thanks so much for caring!