Hearts Melt As Resilient Dog Journey Path to Overcoming Paralysis
A video of a resilient pitbull dog, Riya, journeying on the path to overcoming paralysis has surfaced online capturing the attention and admiration of countless people across the globe.
The heartwarming video of Riya was shared Tuesday on Instagram by Border Tails Rescue, an animal rescue & welfare organization dedicated to rescuing and adopting stray dogs from Mexico and the Chicagoland area.
According to the information provided by the rescue team, The 7-year-old dog’s health took a drastic turn for the worse when she was surrendered to the shelter after spending 3 years with her owner. Riya was not only diagnosed with paralysis in her back end but also severely malnourished and suffering from a fake pregnancy.
in the video, Riya could be seen crying close to the door. The description accompanied by the footage revealed she was crying when her former owner walked away after surrendering her to the shelter.
“Meet Riya, a resilient pitbull who recently came into our shelter as an owner surrender,” the team explained in a caption accompanied by the video. “Riya’s life took a sudden turn three weeks ago when she became paralyzed in her back end. Adding to her challenges, she is now extremely emaciated and experiencing a false pregnancy”
Despite her physical limitations and further health issues, she remained determined to survive. Thanks to the rescue team who sprang into action providing her with some temporary semblance of mobility. The video further revealed the moment Riya experienced the freedom of movement, showing her wagging tail as a clear sign of her joy and gratitude. She was also seen playing happily with other dogs.
“We put her into a temporary wheelchair until we can get her a custom-fit one. the moment she discovered her new freedom, she was wagging her tail,” the team explained. Encouraged by this positive response, the team veterinary “suggested water therapy to help build her muscles.”
The shelter team, however, is impressed by the dog’s progress. They praised Riya noting that it is “heartwarming to see her wag her tail and enjoy the simple pleasures of movement once again.”
Hearts Melt As Resilient Dog Journey Path to Overcoming Paralysis
In another video shared Wednesday by the shelter, Riya is seen courageously making waves in water therapy. “Riya just had her first water therapy session at Splash Dog, and she did amazing,” the caption accompanying the video read.
Despite the difficulties of having little movement in her back legs, Riya showed remarkable determination throughout the lesson. The water treatment is intended to help avoid muscular contractions and increase upper-body strength, both of which are essential in her continued recovery.
Hearts Melt As Resilient Dog Journey Path to Overcoming Paralysis
The video which was shared across several social media platforms has garnered significant attention. On TikTok alone, it received 10,000 likes and over 300 comments with many offering support and encouragement.
One user Karyn wrote, “Sending so many blessings your way for helping her! And prayers that she gets the best forever home.”
“Is she good with other dogs? I live in Geneva and may be willing to foster and help her get healthier while waiting for someone to adopt her,” another user Kiley added
Another commenter identified as stephaniekrueger51 wrote. “Such a sweetie! Someone please foster this sweet girl and give her a loving home!”
Although the Border Tails Rescue social media post detailing the Pitbull’s heartbreaking journey to recovery makes no mention of the reason for her surrender, the video has sparked intense backlash against her previous owners. Many commenters have expressed disbelief and anger at the decision to abandon the dog when she was clearly in need of care.
“I cannot believe they left her when she was in need. People are so cruel. She’s lucky to have you all,” one person commented. “I’ll never understand how someone could just leave their dog behind. Praying for Riya!! She deserves only the best,” another echoed in.
“Omg how can people abandon their family member?? This is truly insane to me! I hope she finds the most loving home so soon!! She is precious and deserves it,” another wrote.
The rescue team and supporters alike are eagerly anticipating Riya’s continued progress and are hopeful for a full recovery.
Dog paralysis occurs when the neurological system is disrupted, hindering normal communication between the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles.
This results in the inability of the dog to completely or partially move one or more limbs. Spinal injuries, intervertebral disc disorders, infections, tumors, and even specific poisons are all potential causes that have been identified as major causes of paralysis in dogs. Symptoms range from weakness and limping to full loss of mobility and control of physiological functions.
If you suspect any sign of paralysis in your dog, immediate veterinary attention is crucial to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
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