I met Gucci when he came to Oak Park Animal Hospital for treatment after being viciously attacked by another dog. This sweet, 10 year old poodle was in his own fenced front yard - minding his business - when another dog barged through the closed gate, grabbed Gucci by the neck and threw him. The result of this brutal attack … multiple bite wounds around the neck and under the arms, significant bruises along the chest area, and a right forelimb so battered and broken that only surgery or amputation could repair the injury and reduce the pain. It remains unclear whether Gucci suffered any neurological damage that will need attention.
Gucci’s pet parent, Sonora, opted to have the right forelimb amputated. This was probably the most loving solution, one where Gucci will not suffer from future pain potentially caused by the rods and pins which would be part of a surgical repair solution.
My role in Gucci’s healing process initially began with providing pre and post surgical massages to help accelerate lymphatic drainage and reduce the swelling. I continued to see him for 60 minute medical massages every few days. I am thrilled to report Gucci is now walking, trotting and running. He has learned to squat to “do his business.” The swelling around the amputation site is gone, and the bruising and puncture wounds are all but memories.
Special shout outs go to:
- The Oak Park Animal Hospital veterinarians:
- Dr Donna Novak whose impressive surgery made Gucci’s recovery possible.
- Dr Dina Bascharon and Dr Leilani Savitt who provide ongoing support and
medical care to Gucci.
- The entire veterinary team – Tina, Melissa, Maggie, Christine – and ESPECIALLY
to Olga for her unflappable surgical assistance and Jannis for her endless support and
cheer-leading.
- Sonora R, Gucci’s pet parent. Gucci clearly loves his mom. Sonora’s faith and nurturing along with her quick thoughtful actions have prolonged her pup’s life.
And mostly to Gucci, who is one tough, resilient little dog!
Gucci’s pet parent, Sonora, opted to have the right forelimb amputated. This was probably the most loving solution, one where Gucci will not suffer from future pain potentially caused by the rods and pins which would be part of a surgical repair solution.
My role in Gucci’s healing process initially began with providing pre and post surgical massages to help accelerate lymphatic drainage and reduce the swelling. I continued to see him for 60 minute medical massages every few days. I am thrilled to report Gucci is now walking, trotting and running. He has learned to squat to “do his business.” The swelling around the amputation site is gone, and the bruising and puncture wounds are all but memories.
Special shout outs go to:
- The Oak Park Animal Hospital veterinarians:
- Dr Donna Novak whose impressive surgery made Gucci’s recovery possible.
- Dr Dina Bascharon and Dr Leilani Savitt who provide ongoing support and
medical care to Gucci.
- The entire veterinary team – Tina, Melissa, Maggie, Christine – and ESPECIALLY
to Olga for her unflappable surgical assistance and Jannis for her endless support and
cheer-leading.
- Sonora R, Gucci’s pet parent. Gucci clearly loves his mom. Sonora’s faith and nurturing along with her quick thoughtful actions have prolonged her pup’s life.
And mostly to Gucci, who is one tough, resilient little dog!
