Rudy

Last year, June of 2004, my beautiful Rottweiler began exhibiting neurological issues. Basically he was losing control of his muscles, his ability to run, walk and his coordination. It was heartbreaking watching him try to climb the back porch steps and fall down. He was no longer able to chase balls, run and was having trouble just walking. He was even losing his ability to squat to poop.

He went into a very deep depression. He spent the majority of his time lying on the living room rug drugged up on Vicodin. (I know, this sounds like heaven, but for Rudy it was the exact opposite)

We tried taking him for walks, short walks, and he would fall over his little legs convulsing uncontrollably looking forlornly. I swear he was say, "Just leave me, save yourself, I'll just die here." Of course we ignored him. We made him get up. But our hearts broke. He was so magnificent. He is the gentlest dog in the world with the biggest heart. There truly is not one mean bone in his body. He loves people. All people, especially little people.

About five month ago I decide I'd had enough. I was tired of Rudy not being Rudy. We, Kurt & I, decided he WAS going to get better. (Mind you during this entire time I had prayed to St. Francis, St. Jude and passed on EVERY chain letter always with the same prayer/wish. Make Rudy be better.)

We started MAKING him go on walks, we made him go play outside with the other dogs. We massaged his legs, helped him lose weight, and wouldn't take no for an answer when the hundred and thirty pound Rottweiler said no. And trust me he can be VERY stubborn. Like his daddy, Kurt.

I do believe it is a miracle. Rudy is MUCH Better. He is not what he once was, but he is running (perhaps a bit drunkenly) but running none the less. He goes on walks now without tearing up his paws. He goes down to the river and can swim, he does swim well. And even more amazingly, he is now coming down the basement stairs ALL ON HIS OWN.

I thank GOD for Rudy’s recovery.

How long this will last I have no idea. I do know that with faith and work good things can and will happen. Rudy is my constant reminder that God works miracles. You just have to be willing to participate in the process.