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Barbara Techel is the author of the multi-award winning Frankie, the Walk ‘N Roll Dog book series. When her dachshund, Frankie, suffered a spinal injury, Barbara had her custom-fitted for a wheelchair. Frankie persevered, and Barbara realized the beautiful opportunity she had to share Frankie and give others hope and inspiration to be the best they can be. Along with sharing Frankie’s story with children, Barbara and Frankie routinely volunteer as a therapy dog team at a local hospital, senior assisted facility, and hospice community, spreading joy wherever they go.

Monday, December 28, 2009

Expressing the Bladder of a Paralyzed Dog



Ok, so I know, talking about our bodily functions can be kinda gross... but, hey, we all gotta do it, right? And since I happen to be a paralyzed dog, I need a little help on that end (pun intended!)

But here is your chance to help spread a positive message by sharing this video! Now that is a good thing, right? When I first became paralyzed my poor mom had a hard time figuring out when I had to go... so we had lots of messes, well, err, I had lots of messes. But with a little practice, my mom became a pro at helping me go to the bathroom. And you know what? I love her very much for that. You see, sadly, many dogs are put to sleep when they become paralyzed. Their mom and dad are afraid they may not be able to learn how to help their paralyzed dog go to the bathroom.

So my mom and I were very excited when we were asked to be a part of this very well done video on showing others how easy it really can be... you just have to practice... and isn't that like all things in life? We learn by practicing.

So here is where you can help!! Share this video with your local vets, with other pet parents, with your local humane societies, etc. Arf-a-roo! Thanks for your help!!

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6 comments:

Andrea said...

Frankie,
You have an awesome mom. She has given you the chance to continue being all GOD created you to be. You are right...some folks would have put their dogs to sleep. Instead, your mom turned your struggle into blessings and she uses it to help so many others.
Blessings and prayers,
andrea (Sitka's mom)

Barbara Techel said...

My mom says it is me who is special, but without her, I may not be here. Please do share the video with others... we want to save lots of dogs! :)

Happy New Year, Andrea and Sitka!
Frankie

Jeffrey said...

Hi Frankie!

My name is Riley, and I'm a Doxen just like you! Two years ago I myself had to go through the same procedure as you. I was doing fine for quite some time! But recently my legs gave out again. The doctor told me and my daddy that I might not be able to walk again. My daddy got upset, he kept looking at me and smiling, then he started to cry a little. I tried to cheer him up by giving him some kisses but that made him more upset. He loves me a lot and it hurts him to see me hurt. The doctor gave me a shot of medication to hopefully help me, but my daddy seems to have trouble accepting the possibility that I may not be able to run and play like I used to. Is there any advice you could give him? He's really down in the dumps and I want him to be happy like me! Even though I do have to go potty really super bad!

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Best,
Riley

Barbara Techel said...

Jeffery,

I would look up www.dodgerslist.com asap. They are an organization that helps pet parents whose pets have been diagnosed with IVDD, like Riley. Of utmost importance right now is to keep Riley crated for 6-8 weeks so he can heal. As far as the potty situation, did the vet show you how to express his bladder? You can't let that go too long without expressing him or it will cause a bladder infection.
Also, if Riley is not in any pain and you adhere to the strict cage rest, he may recover-- if not, wheelchairs are always a viable option. Frankie's is from www.eddieswheels.com so do check them out. Dogs in wheelchairs, like Frankie do quite well and live a long happy quality life.
Hope this helps.
Barbara & Frankie

Jeffrey said...

Barbara & Frankie,

I've been expressing his bladder regularly as he would normally need to alleviate himself. Is there a trick to helping him poop? I'm just concerned about that because he hasn't since yesterday morning. So keeping him crated would be just to keep him confined for 6-8 weeks?

Thanks for all the help!
-Jeffrey

Barbara Techel said...

You can massage back by his tail or use a q-tip to encourage a BM. Yes confined for 6-8 weeks. Dodgerslist has a $3.00 DVD about caring for and living with an IVDD dog, so I'd encourage you to get that-- explains many of the questions you have.
Hope this helps.