Case Study: Taco

Basic Information

Name: Taco
Breed: Short Coated Chihuahua
Sex: Male, Neutered
Weight: 7.1 lbs.
DOB: 8/31/05
Eval Date / Beginning of Therapy: 10/6/07

History

Taco was a stray who was brought to the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm. Surgery for a damaged right hip was completed at Lollypop. Needing rehabilitation and healing time, he began boarding and treatment at TheraVet.

Presenting Problems

Right Femoral Head Osteotomy (FHO)

Condition / Diagnosis / Findings

Right hindlimb muscle loss, decreased flexibility, and mobility. Taco would ambulate on three legs, only occasionally using his post surgical right hindlimb. This type of movement was causing compensatory changes throughout the rest of his body.

Therapy Goals

Increase flexibility, and strength in right rear leg. Increase in balance, mobility and overall comfort.

Course of Therapy

Underwater treadmill, combined with PROM’s, LASER, Physioball work & weight bearing exercises.

Progress Evaluation

Taco made significant progress in strengthening his right hind leg, and is now at a point where he is using it on a regular basis. He was never limited in activity despite his condition, but now he can walk with more ease and flexibility. He puts full weight his post surgical leg and no longer hops on three legs to move around.

Progress to Date

After approximately 6 weeks, Taco is now coming for therapy 2 days a week. He has been adopted, so boarding is no longer needed. His treatment will continue, so that he can continue the progress he has made up to this point. He is a spirited, loveable little dog!