The Difference a Year Makes

[Berna]

It's about Cookie and his recovery after his FHO surgery and nerve injury.

I remember, last year, the poor boy had so many issues. I thought twice that I would lose him. First he was hit by a car, and a few months later he had the seizures.

His right back leg was a mess. I remember trying to get an appointment with the surgeon but he was out of the country. I didn't even know what was wrong with his leg.

And today, Christmas Eve, Cookie is alive and doing amazingly well. I am so happy and thankful. The best Christmas gift of all.

[SunDance]

Oh, Elena...this video has me in tears.

It's funny how we watched your videos showing his progress and cheered because he kept looking better and better. But seeing where he started and watching all his progress to this point triggered the sadness of his having been injured and the joy of watching him heal. What a wonderful resilient determined dog you have...and what a wonderful strong determined owner he has. What a great video.

Hugs and holiday cheer headed your way!!!

[Mr Kleb]

I'm in awe of your love for and your devotion to Cookie. What a marvellous testimonial of the love of and for your companion.

A big hug to you and share that hug with Cookie.

[barry581]

Cookie was another one I was so very happy to see made through everything he dealt with. Watching his recovery over the past year has warmed my heart.

[Jollymolly]

Im so grateful that Cookie made such a wonderful recovery. You had determination. Im so glad you have each other.

[MontananDakota]

What a blessing. It's beautiful to see how far he has come. I'm so glad he has you to care for him.
Hugs to you both... forever forward

[Tanya]

He is in amazing shape for a dog his age that HASN'T gone thru what he did in the last year and a half. Seriously. You're an amazing mom to not give up on him. He looks happy thru the entire video, such a great pup.

[Snowshoe]

I think that's the first video I've seen him running in, he's moving SO well. I bet I'm not the only one who was holding my breath throughout some of the videos you've shown as his recovery progressed. I bet you could now take up scuba diving without the tanks, you have probably practiced holding your breath so much. Go Cookie.

[Abulafia]

I remember joining this board last August when we brought Hoku home, and just starting to learn about Cookie's injuries and ordeals. It was, I admit, terrifying. His recovery has been totally amazing. Hugs to you both!

[Berna]

Thank you all so much, you have no idea how much your support meant to me during the difficult times.

We are currently taking a break from PT, we are going back mid-January. I think this is the first break from PT where he has had more good days than bad days. His main issue with the leg is neurological, the muscles are slowly and steadily growing back. His physical therapist said that she expects a 80-90% recovery, and that we are currently at around 60%. She would like to be surprised and see a 100% recovery, but she has her doubts. She thinks his right leg will remain weaker than his left leg. Personally, I wouldn't mind if he remains the way he is in the next 3-4 years Even so, he is active, he enjoys his walks and he is not in pain, and that's what's important to me.

Snowshoe, I am still holding my breath, occasionally. I've just started to relax a bit when we are outside. I am not thinking as much how he may injure himself.