When we first met Lucky, she was severely emaciated (12 kg), unable to walk, and suffering from multiple flexor contractures in both forelimbs. Drawing on human physiotherapy techniques and evidence, a structured rehabilitation programme was created for her, this involved a home exercise plan to improve her strength and mobility, a nutritional plan to increase her weight, hydrotherapy to aid her ability to stand, and custom-made splints to treat the contractures.
When we first met Lucky, she was severely emaciated (12 kg), unable to walk, and suffering from multiple flexor contractures in both forelimbs. Drawing on human physiotherapy techniques and evidence, a structured rehabilitation programme was created for her, this involved a home exercise plan to improve her strength and mobility, a nutritional plan to increase her weight, hydrotherapy to aid her ability to stand, and custom-made splints to treat the contractures.
The six-month intensive rehabilitation program was continuously tailored to meet Lucky’s evolving needs. This included weekly adjustments to custom orthotics to enhance joint range of motion, a supported standing routine, and the dedicated efforts of two hydrotherapists guiding Lucky through movement patterns on the underwater treadmill. By applying principles and evidence from human physiotherapy, where veterinary-specific research on contracture management is limited, the rehabilitation plan successfully enabled Lucky to regain the ability to walk, run, and play independently.
The six-month intensive rehabilitation program was continuously tailored to meet Lucky’s evolving needs. This included weekly adjustments to custom orthotics to enhance joint range of motion, a supported standing routine, and the dedicated efforts of two hydrotherapists guiding Lucky through movement patterns on the underwater treadmill. By applying principles and evidence from human physiotherapy, where veterinary-specific research on contracture management is limited, the rehabilitation plan successfully enabled Lucky to regain the ability to walk, run, and play independently.
This case highlights what’s possible when innovative thinking and clinical expertise come together with a deeply committed team. It was incredibly rewarding to see Lucky make progress week by week, especially considering the early weeks when there were serious concerns about her welfare and difficult conversations with her foster carer, questions such as, ‘are we delaying the inevitable?’
Langford Vets Small Animal Hospital recently welcomed Lucky back to a tea party to celebrate her remarkable recovery where she was awarded the status of Langford Hero. The team that rescued her, her foster owner (now formal owner), and the rehabilitation team all enjoyed some cake while watching Lucky showcase her impressive running skills in the sun.
Langford Vets Small Animal Hospital recently welcomed Lucky back to a tea party to celebrate her remarkable recovery where she was awarded the status of Langford Hero. The team that rescued her, her foster owner (now formal owner), and the rehabilitation team all enjoyed some cake while watching Lucky showcase her impressive running skills in the sun.
Supporting pets on their road to recovery
