(Dwayne was all smiles when he found out he didn’t need surgery just yet!)
Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. (July 27, 2017) – A happy, surprise-twist has occurred in a recovery journey that has had its ups and downs. During a pre-surgery examination today, Dwayne’s medical team identified new hope and postponed a severe surgery that had been scheduled for this morning.
Ever the charmer, Dwayne gave friendly greetings to hospital staff (and other doggy patients!) as he walked into his pre-surgery exam. Upon examination, the team was surprised to find that he seemed to be coping with the injured leg better than he had at his preliminary exam six weeks prior. “It appears as though his back right hip surgery has healed exceptionally well and has taken the strain off of his front right elbow. Additionally, we’ve been doing physical therapy consistently over the past few weeks which has seems to have had a positive impact on use of his elbow, too,” said Dr. Carter. “Things are actually looking better than they were six weeks ago.”
Originally, it had been determined that Dwayne’s front right leg would need to be fused or amputated. Today, Dwayne’s medical team, which includes professionals from both Helen Woodward Animal Center’s Companion Animal Hospital and the California Veterinary Specialists, has determined that there may be an even better course of treatment for the loveable pup who had been a victim of extreme abuse. The team will be launching a nation-wide search for the best experts to consult on his unique case.
In normal circumstances when a dog suffers an injury like dislocation or fracture, it receives medical treatment immediately. In this case of extreme abuse, Dwayne wasn’t treated at all, so his injury and healing process have been unique. Dwayne’s rescuers at Helen Woodward Animal Center are determined to follow every opportunity to give Dwayne the best chance at a happy, full life.
Those wishing to follow his story can find updates here: https://animalcenter.org/news/dwaynes-journey.
About Helen Woodward Animal Center
Helen Woodward Animal Center is a private, non-profit organization where “people help animals and animals help people.” Founded in 1972 in Rancho Santa Fe, Calif., the Center provides services for more than 57,000 people and thousands of animals annually through adoptions, educational and therapeutic programs both onsite and throughout the community. Helen Woodward Animal Center is also the creator of the international Blue Buffalo Home 4 the Holidays pet adoption drive, the International Remember Me Thursday® campaign and The Business of Saving Lives Workshops, teaching the business of saving lives to animal welfare leaders from around the world. For more information go to: www.animalcenter.org.