A few months ago our 9 yr old female brindle boxer named Lacy was diagnosed with Degenerative Myelopathy, a disease affecting the spinal cord, results in slowly progressive hind limb weakness and paralysis. I waited for the vet to tell me what was next but he said there was essentially nothing that could be done. There are special shoes and harnesses and eventually a wheelchair. In the meantime our goal is to make Lacy as comfortable as possible and continue to be active.
This news came at the same time as April decided to expand her services to include canine therapy. We were eager and excited to become a case study and let Lacy get all the benefits of April’s special touch. I’ve witnessed the work April has done with equine massage and knew it would have benefits for Lacy.
Lacy has made it no secret she’s excited when April comes for her massage. It’s clear during and after that she’s experiencing relief. I know it won’t reverse her condition but just knowing it’s helping and she enjoys it makes me happy. I feel like I have to remind Lacy, she’s still an old dog with a condition after her massage because she really wants to jump around and play. She also likes a good long nap after.
I’m forever grateful for any relief and extension the massages will give to Lacy’s time with us.
-Sabrina, Maryville Illinois
