Welcome to our first Motivational Monday! Every so often on a Monday we hope to share the stories of others to help inspire and encourage you. If you have a story of a loved pet that you would like to share, please leave a reply below and we will be sure to be in contact with you.
Today we are excited to be able to share Dakota’s story with you all thanks to her family!
Dakota’s Story
Dakota was found outdoors in Northern Manitoba in the winter with her siblings when she was only a couple weeks old, and her mother was gone. It was discovered that she had an injury (fracture) to her lumbar spine causing incontinence and the inability to walk. When she came to live with us, she had urine burns and friction sores on her legs from dragging them. Her prognosis was bleak. Addressing the urine burns was our first priority as infection was likely. This was easily accomplished by putting her in a diaper and keeping her clean. Keeping her on soft surfaces and using her wheelchair allowed the friction sores to heal. Next came regular exercise to build strength. As she got stronger, the fracture site got smaller. It was a big, gnarly, L-shaped bump on her spine and now it’s hard to find! Dakota’s incontinence improved immensely as well! She went from a constant dribble to having a dry diaper most mornings! The fact that she knows when she has to go is amazing!
Dakota may have a disability, but she’s not disabled. She can do most things other dogs can do, she just does them differently. She’s a happy girl, loves to play and loves people. She loves being outdoors, chasing squirrels and digging holes! Winter is her favourite, climbing snow banks and eating snow. She loves going for walks, she’s so excited when we leave the house that she barks and cries for joy when we first start out. Then she prances down the street like she’s the Queen of the neighbourhood! Her absolute favourite thing to do is run on the river in the winter using her skis.
Dakota is a special dog. We gave her the help she needed, but she has the determination!
