Hey everyone!

It’s been a while since we’ve been on here, so first a quick recap!

About 1.5 years ago, Jericho (formerly known as Trucker) and I were united. Since then, he has blossomed in ways that I never imagined: chasing ducks, running up the stairs, playing fetch, etc! He is truly a gift and I am so lucky to have him as a part of my life.

Now for the new stuff:

Recently, Jericho has been moving his ‘paralyzed’ leg. Before it would occasionally twitch, but now I am noticing frequent, substantial movement. He doesn’t respond much to pain stimuli, but he has never really responded in his other limbs (one of those sweet guys that lets a vet put in an IV without even flinching). The pulse in that leg has also developed a marked change; whereas before it was barely palpable, it is now strong. So now I am in a predicament…

My question is if I should try rehabilitation of that leg. We would begin by extending the leg (it’s now atrophied) to further improve blood flow, etc. and eventually try to regain muscle mass. My concern, however, is that if he did not learn to reuse the leg, he could potentially drag it and we would have to put him through a traumatic amputation.

Here's a picture for an idea of where he's at now.

He deserves the best life I could give him, so I’m trying to weigh out the benefit/risks.

Thoughts?

Much love,

Joanna & Jericho

I think Purdue has ongoing clinical trials in their Paralysis research center

http://www.vet……rials.html

and North Carolin has a stem cell therapy trial for paralysis

http://cvm.ncsu…..-ADSC.html

Ive found that even if dogs dont qualify, the clinical trial folks are pretty good about steering you in the right direction. 

Thanks for the responses everyone:

Jericho has not had use of his limb since he was approximately 6 months old, so about 4 years now. I suspect radial nerve paralysis, which is common in dogs who have sustained trauma to their front leg (I was told he was hit by a car.) We are lucky enough to live next to a Veterinary School which has a small animal rehabilitation facillity, and I am in the process of getting him seen by a specialist.

Has anyone heard of such a thing as regaining use after so long? What sparks my interest is his ability to move the leg. I am actually applying to said veterinary school this year, and when I was speaking to a well-respected orthopedic specialist she thought it was unlikely that he would have motor function if it were truely paralyzed.

Joanna,

 I am so interested in what is happening with Jericho and wish you the miracle that all of us wish for!

Beth and Spirit Smilin' Sammy