Bodie is a 9-year-old shepherd/lab mix who presented to VRSVA after diagnosis of a herniated disc in the C3-C4 region of his neck. He initially had minor loss of function of his right front foot, but this progressed to loss of use in all four limbs and loss of control of his bladder. 

On presentation to VRSVA Bodie had been laterally recumbent for about two months. He could lay comfortably on his side, but had difficulty holding up his head and could not sit up or stand on his own.  He had some sensation in his limbs and was not painful.

Bodie was initially treated with laser acupuncture and laser therapy.  Within two weeks of beginning treatment he was able to sit up on his own and could stand with assistance. He began stationary strengthening exercises and progressed to working in the underwater treadmill. Bodie continued to steadily improve and within two months he was up and moving on all four limbs!    

Bodie is still working on recovering his balance and strength, and he wears a harness so his owner can assist him if he takes a mis-step. He is a sweet, happy boy and we are so excited for him to have made such progress in such a short period of time!