Ginger on Wheels

Ginger was diagnosed with a virulent strain of cancer in her leg in April 2009 at the age of 5. Doctors told us that although amputation of the front left leg of our 125-lb Mastiff might stop the cancer, it would likely leave her unable to get up and move, given that she had arthritis and other debilitating conditions in her other legs. In May, days away from death, we decided against the Dr.'s recommendations and decided to move forward with the amputation. Two days after the operation she stood up on her own. To preserve the use of her remaining front (very arthritic) leg for as long as possible, my husband has been working on modifiying a titanium special olympics wheelchair for Ginger. This is her second try at using it. Ultimately we will start bringing her back to the local doggy park to start socializing, Ginger's favorite pastime. Stay posted for more videos as her re-training progresses. This video was taken by my nephew as my husband and a friend are taking her out for her second spin in her new vehicle. Occasionally she tries to back up instead of move forward with rather funny results. Note that Ginger's head rests comfortably on a pillow, while her front right leg fits into a fuzzy-lined woman's boot to keep it comfortable and protected.

Category:

Pets & Animals

Tags:

• Dog Wheelchair
• Disabled Dog Vehicle
• Mastiff on 3 legs
• Handicapped Pets
• Handicapped Dog

[lscoop1]

Sadly, Ginger passed away on September 22, 2009. We never made the follow-up video that we meant to; this video was her first try and since then she became amazingly proficient with the wheelchair, especially after she could no longer walk on 3 legs. I'll forever cherish her memory and this movie of her valiant last few months of life....

[GrlsRock2]

Sorry to hear about Ginger! I put your video on my new website dogforumsite in the special & disabled area. Thanks for sharing with us.