What humans did to Valerik is impossible to comprehend. They kept this small boy hostage and abused him every day. Then, they threw him out by someone’s house, leaving him starved, dehydrated, scared, covered in wounds, bruises, and scars, with a broken spine. He was found completely immobile and in shock.
Valerik was only 3 years old and ended up in the ICU in critical condition. He was immediately hospitalized, received a blood transfusion, and was put on fluids.
Once he stabilized, he was taken to surgery to repair his vertebrae. During surgery, it was discovered that his spinal cord was completely severed, which was going to significantly impact his mobility.
Despite the grim news, hope remained strong, and Valerik was given the best possible care and rehabilitation. His veterinarian eventually transferred him to a boarding facility with a rehab center known for working wonders with dogs who have suffered spinal injuries.
Valerik worked tirelessly with his rehabilitation team, undergoing sessions 3-4 times a day. This rigorous routine included exercises and evening massages, all aimed at helping him regain his strength. The focus was on building up his lower back and pelvic muscles through exercises like squats and acupuncture sessions, which were designed to help him develop the power needed to lift himself.
However, Valerik’s stepping pattern remained a significant challenge. This pattern referred to the coordinated movement and rhythm of his legs as he attempted to walk. At that time, his legs were not moving in a coordinated way that resembled walking, even with external stimulation. This was a critical part of his recovery, as regaining this stepping pattern was essential for him to walk again.
The prognosis remains cautious due to Valerik’s spinal cord injury, but the fact that he is showing some reaction and engagement during his sessions is a positive sign, suggesting that progress, though slow, is indeed possible. In the meantime, he is “walking,” playing, and loving life with his new wheelchair.
Rehabilitation is never a swift or easy journey, especially for a dog who has lived through years of abuse and survived, but Valerik has made remarkable progress.
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Source: Los Angeles Times (edited)
