Coal has a happy, energetic, kind and loving demeanor. We can’t believe he could have had such a traumatic start to his young life. He is under 1-year-old currently. Originally found in Texas by the side of the road, unable to use his hind legs, this little black puppy was brought to a rescue right away. They x-rayed his hips but were not able to determine any specific injury, so he was put on bed-rest to see if his condition would improve. Sadly, rest did not improve anything for the puppy and he was still unable to walk without improvement. Because of this, he was scheduled to be euthanized.
A rescue director in Massachusetts heard about Coal’s case and had him transferred to a rescue in MA. Coal underwent further diagnostics that revealed a bullet was lodged in his spine.
Once Coal had spinal surgery to remove the bullet, he moved to a foster home where he was nursed back to health; undergoing several months of physical therapy, acupuncture, and cold laser therapy. Coal became stronger, but he still lacks the control of his hind area, both with his mobility and continence. However, the foster was able to acclimate Coal to using wheels for his walks and exercise! After several months of intensive care, the foster could no longer keep Coal and reached out to Our Companions to continue his rehabilitation.
Despite all the unfortunate, difficult circumstances Coal has experienced in such a short amount of time, that does not affect his outlook on life! He approaches each new day with a love for life, enjoying time with his friends, and happy to just have fun wherever he is! His loving, optimistic personality demonstrates true resiliency, even when faced with adversity. His story is remarkable, and we are so grateful that we get to be a part of this journey with him. We want to thank all of the people that supported Coal thus far and trusts us to continue his care. We know our OC community will be showering Coal with all the love and light he needs to thrive during his time with us.
We line his room with cozy, comfy blankets, he loves to lounge with us and chew on a bone, and he has been a PRO at exploring the woods and our trails with his wheels. He is even meeting a few doggy friends – and already has won the hearts of all his human friends at the Sanctuary. We’ve noticed increased movement in his back legs too; we are not sure if it’s reflexes only but Coal is in the right place to continue his care and to help him heal.
