River's Emergency Surgery-UC Davis

*** RIVER IS WALKING AGAIN ***

The sling is only for support should he slip or make a misstep.  River's progress is remarkable.  He will be returning to UC Davis right before Christmas to see his surgeon, Dr. Amanda Xue and her staff.  His recovery is in great part of everyone believing, and sending prayers and hope. On October 30th, he was paralyzed from his last rib down.  We are seeing a miracle.  One tough dog with so many angels.  Lin & River





River suddenly collapsed, and was unable to move his hind legs, stand or even go potty. I do not know what happened, or what went wrong. There was no warning.

 

On October 30th in the early morning, I got him in the truck and left for the 3 ½ hour drive to UC Davis Veterinary Hospital, calling on the way to let them know we were coming emergency.

 

When we arrived, we were met immediately by hospital staff. River was taken directly to Neurology where he was diagnosed with a ruptured lumbar disc and hemorrhage compressing his spinal cord. A right sided laminectomy was performed to remove this material.

 

He was at the hospital all week, first in the ICU, working his way up to being able to come home the following Saturday, thanks to the initial and round the clock care he received from the staff at UC Davis.

 

The doctors called his injury an acute event, telling me there is no explanation as to why or how these things happen. He was fine and then he just wasn’t. The medical bills alone for his treatment and care for the week are $9,500.

 

The prognosis is exceptionally good. He is starting to regain the motor function in his hind end. With time, rest, and supportive care his coordination is returning. He will have a long rehab ahead of him. His home care is strict confinement for 4-6 weeks. When released from confinement, there will be strength building exercises and physical therapy as a part of his rehabilitation.

 

If ever a dog could pull through, it’s this one. He is tough with an unrelenting drive. His drive to please is undoubtedly the one thing so keen to him that will see him through.

 

Everyone deserves a chance. I truly believe this, and simply could not imagine life without him. My decision to drive him to UC Davis goes without question. We have been blessed with so many angels in our lives this week: the doctors and staff and UC Davis and the many friends who know River and have been sending their love and prayers.

 

I hope our story gives inspiration to never give up on the dogs we love. River is going to be with me for a very long time.

 

My heartfelt thank you for reading our story. Ay contribution, whether it be monetary, or sending prayers and love is appreciated.

In the case of donations from this fundraiser exceeding the costs of River’s treatment and recovery, these funds will be donated to           
UC Davis Veterinary Hospital.

Please share our story.

 

Lin & River