FBR, Inc.

...................................................Feature Story

A WALK FOR WALKER

Walker had a tough start to say the least. Born deformed and unable to walk on his own, he was given away by the breeder at the tender age of five weeks, a mere two pounds. Through several kind-hearted people and despite his handicap, Walker found his way to Florida Boxer Rescue Inc.

Walker had seen a veterinary neurologist to determine the nature of his problems but the work up was extensive. His future was undetermined. Ashlie Deinert of Florida Boxer Rescue (FBR) approached the veterinary neurologist, Dr. Anne Chauvet of Veterinary Neuro Services, and asked if she could help Walker. She agreed to volunteer all her services. A myelogram was performed and Walker's spine was found to be malformed with abnormal vertebral shapes and curves of the spine. The third to seventh thoracic (chest) vertebrae were all pushed together, not lying straight from end to end; but crumpled up, forcing them at almost ninety degree angles to each other. Dr. Chauvet immediately performed the surgery which would give him the chance to walk. It was necessary to cut away the top half of the third through seventh vertebrae in order to give the spinal cord room (pictures are available at www.petneuro.com under "Case of the Month.")

Walker spent his first couple of weeks after surgery at Veterinary Neuro Services and his first weekend at Dr. Chauvet's home. The entire neighborhood took turns visiting and hosting Walker. Only a couple days after surgery, luck knocked on Walker's door again. A young Sarasota couple made the decision to foster and adopt him, soon taking him home every night, caring for him, and performing intensive physical therapy under the supervision and guidance of Teresa Castelli. Routine therapy was performed multiple times a day. The excitement spread through FBR and many visited Walker the hospital. He was under the loving support and care of Teresa, a certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner, who runs Pet Physical Therapy & Performance Center. From laser therapy, to stretch therapy, to massages, Walker crawled then walked with support.

Although his spine remains malformed and the spinal cord is compressed, no further surgery can help. He will continue therapy including body/spine stretches and have the use of a walker for a few more weeks. Florida Boxer Rescue Inc. is very grateful for the generous and kind ongoing support of Veterinary Neuro Services and Pet Physical Therapy & Performance Center. Through ongoing therapy and the support of FBR, our hope and wishes are to bring you pictures of Walker walking in the near future.

To send cards of appreciation or donations for Dr. Chauvet's fund to help needy pets:

Veterinary Neuro Services L.L.C.

3900 Clark Road Bldg M Unit 4

Sarasota, FL 34231

To make a donation to help Walker in his continued journey including the purchase of a specialized cart, you may use our paypal link (link here) or send donations to:

Florida Boxer Rescue Inc.

PO Box 898

Englewood, Fl 34295-0898