CASE GUNNER

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Meet Gunner: Our Resilient Labrador Retriever!

Gunner, an 8-year-old Labrador Retriever, came to us on June 13, 2023, with a right rear leg lameness (limp). Originally, before we met him he sustained an injury so that he became non-weight bearing after a fun run with his owner’s son. Diagnosed with a suspected cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury, he began conservative management with gabapentin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication with his primary care veterinarian, showing positive progress by using his leg more.

Gunner also came to us as a brave survivor of B-cell lymphoma, having completed chemotherapy at Broward Veterinary Specialists and currently enjoying remission.

With a history of a successfully excised low-grade cutaneous mast cell tumor and a prior tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) on his left knee, Gunner’s owner was eager to pursue conservative management for his new right rear cruciate issue, as well as explore Chinese medicine to support his overall health and help him remain in remission from his cancer.

Gunner was later assessed by an orthopedic specialist on August 30, 2023. While some instability was noted in his knee, there was no indication of a meniscal tear.

Since starting acupuncture and rehabilitation, Gunner has made remarkable strides. He is now on a regimen of Chinese herbal therapy tailored to address both his orthopedic needs and to bolster his immune system to help maintain his remission. Gunner now receives his acupuncture at our clinic as needed.

The owner is thrilled with Gunner’s progress, feeling that he is doing great and mostly maintaining his health with herbal support.

Please continue on to witness Gunner’s progress and join us in celebrating his journey toward recovery and wellness! If you feel your pet could benefit from any of our treatments, contact us to learn more about our services and how we can support your furry family member’s health.

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SEE HOW THEY CHANGED THEIR LIFE

Here you can see Gunner’s first session at My Friendly Vet! Please note the lameness (limp) in the right rear leg; he is moving slowly around the room, panting, and prefers to lie down—these are signs that may indicate pain or discomfort.

Look at the progress in this video! Gunner has made significant improvements, showing better overall strength and stamina. He is now moving more easily throughout the room and can sit more comfortably—notice how he is sitting squarely, something often challenging for dogs with cruciate disease.

Here’s another exciting update! This video showcases even more improvement with our patient’s right rear lameness. Thanks to the dedicated rehab program, including exercises with the cavaletti poles, Gunner is showing remarkable progress in strength and stamina. You can see how much more engaged and excited he is to participate in the exercise!

Check out Gunner, looking happy and healthy 8 months since we initially started with him! He’s continued to thrive, thanks to the progress made with his home rehabilitation program and ongoing maintenance using Chinese herbals. Gunner is not only feeling great but is excited and ready for his sessions—his enthusiasm is a testament to the positive changes he’s experiencing.