Trooper’s Journey To Recovery

Posted In: Canine Health & Wellness, News Updates

In late 2013, when Trooper was just a puppy, he was tied to the back of a truck and dragged for more than a mile. His injuries were extensive, and it is a miracle that he survived that day. The woman who was responsible for his injuries was found guilty of misdemeanor animal abuse. Trooper, being the amazing dog he is, spent months at the Humane Society of Missouri recovering. He required multiple surgeries, treatments, and rehabilitation exercises to heal his body and his soul.

Trooper was adopted, and he now recieves all the the love and attention he deserves. One day after a walk in the woods, Trooper stopped using his right hind leg. His dad contacted us right away. X-rays showed that Trooper had significant swelling and inflammation in his knee. We created a plan for Trooper that included Laser Therapy, Platelet Rich Plasma injections, and the Underwater Treadmill at our Integrated Veterinary Pain Management Center:

• Laser Therapy targets specific body areas to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation. It also stimulates tissue regeneration and helps the body release endorphins to fight pain naturally. We think Trooper looks especially cute in his doggy goggles!
• PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) is a procedure where a patient’s blood cells are processed and injected back into the joints where pain is occurring. In Trooper’s case, that was his knee. The high concentration of growth factors and healing proteins helps reverse joint damage and aids his body in restoring healthy joint tissue.
• The Underwater Treadmill utilizes the therapeutic properties of water. Trooper uses the underwater treadmill once a week to help regain strength and rebuild muscle mass. Plus, it helps him burn off some of his energy – of which he has a lot!

After just two weeks of implementing this new plan, Trooper improved visibly. Measurements showed a 5% increase in muscle circumference, a 14% increase in flexing his right knee, and a 22% increase in extending that knee!  He is now walking on all four legs again and comes in once a week for underwater treadmill visits, which are helping him regain strength. He has also returned to long walks in the woods with his dad.

The Animal Medical Center of Mid-America has veterinarians at three locations that can answer questions about your pet’s health. Call 314-951-1534 or click here to request an appointment online.