Pablo’s Story

As told by Natalie, Pablo’s owner.

On Friday 19th of November 2022, Pablo displayed signs of a spinal injury. He was rushed to WAVES Emergency Service. Pablo visited Applecross Veterinary Hospital, where he was under the amazing care of Dr Jia-Wen. After much examination, it appeared that Pablo did indeed suffer from trauma to his spine, unknown to the cause. As Pablo’s owner,I was referred to Dr Neil Gibson from Rivergum Referral Services. After careful examination, Pablo was diagnosed with a ruptured disc in his spine. The decision was made to operate and stay in the care of Rivergum for the following 6 days after surgery. Pablo required 24-hour care following his surgery, due to breathing difficulties and was referred to Murdoch Emergency Vet for 2 days. Once collected, Pablo was to visit Rivergum twice daily to review is progress over the 6-week period. Dr Neil Gibson suggested that Pablo would benefit from Hydrotherapy following the removal of his staples.

Dr Neil Gibson put me in contact with Active Pet Rehabilitation where I first spoke with Carmel via phone. She was excited to meet Pablo and for someone new in this experience, made me feel at ease that Pablo was going to receive the best care moving forward. At Pablo’s first appointment, he became familiar with the amazing staff at the Active Pet Rehabilitation in Willetton. Carmel and I had an in-depth conversation about Pablo’s injury and the success of his surgery into recovery. Pablo received fortnightly sessions at first, whilst under the observation of Dr Neil Gibson. Within the first 6 weeks to 6 months of Pablo’s recovery, things progressed at a very slow rate. Pablo received a set of wheels to assist his independence, especially with toileting.

Carmel suggested a range of exercises for Pablo after each Hydrotherapy session at Active Pet Rehabilitation. At the beginning of each Hydrotherapy session, Carmel would ask for feedback about the exercises and if I experienced any difficulties. She always has alternative exercises and other more specific ideas around Pablo’s recovery. As time passed, we began lengthening the time between Pablo’s Hydrotherapy sessions, however, I felt that the therapy on a more regular basis was beneficial to Pablo’s recovery. After much persistence within the year, Pablo began showing great improvement in his walking ability. As we near close to two years, Pablo continues to receive 4 to 6 weekly Hydrotherapy sessions at Active Pet Rehabilitation in Mossman Park under Carmel’s care.

It's safe to say, that for the dog who was showing NO signs of being able to walk again, is continuing to make amazing progress and is independently walking with the support and encouragement of Active Pet Rehabilitation. Pablo would not be the way he is without them!

- Natalie & Pablo Pin