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Whether or not you believe in "Guardian Angels" you would have to admit that little Schnitzel has someone with some "pull" looking out for him. Tiny Schnitzel was turned into the Harlingen Humane Society unable to use his back legs. For almost any other dog, this would have been an automatic death sentence in a shelter. But Schnitzel's warm, loving personality and sweet, good nature started him on a path through a series of guardian angels looking out for him. Some caring folks at the shelter reached out to rescue contacts and soon our President, Linne Girouard was contacted. One look at this precious guy and she knew we had to help him. Schnitzel is now being cared for by one of our long-time foster moms who has experience working with down doxies and he's doing well. He can walk now, but has no bend in the knees. ATDR took him to an orthopedic specialist and they don't believe it is a skeletal problem, but that it is a ligament problem. Schnitzel has been put in braces, to which wires will be added, all in an attempt to encourage the knees to bend. It will take a long time, a lot of patience, many medical expenses, and much rehabilitation, but the doctor is encouraged Schnitzel can be helped. If you can donate to help ATDR to help Schnitzel and thus becoming one of his guardian angels, please do so. He is going to need all the help he can get for quite a while. Stay tuned for more updates on this cutie!!
Sept 15, 2010 - Schnitzel's foster mom wrote, "Schnitzel has been to the orthopedic doc twice in 4 days because the little stinker wiggled out of his last pair of braces. Everyone at the clinic was surprised as he didn’t chew and undo any of the gauze or wrapping tape; he apparently just used his front paws to push against the braces and worked his legs out of them. Little Houdini man!! The doc said he appears to be making progress, but it is a slow process and the “Schnitzel Witzel” seems to have more patience than the people in his life.
He is a very vocal boy when he wants attention. He has endeared himself to all his foster siblings and can be usually found snuggling or playing with them. His favorite toys are the plush animals and we discovered the ones without stuffing which is a fabulous thing for all in the house since he had showered the floors in “stuffing” before then.
"He gets around pretty well considering his “boots” and always has a great attitude. He will require a lot of rehab so please consider contributing to his ongoing care. No amount is too small! Hugs and kisses from the Schnitzel!!!"
October 13, 2010 - Mr. Schnitzel had his braces removed and is now “walking” on the pads of his back feet as opposed to walking knuckled under as he did before. This is a big improvement for our boy. He has also earned the nickname “Forest, Forest Gump” from some of his fans. We are now embarking on Physical Therapy for the next 2 months. Schnitz receives regular Hydrotherapy, Massage Therapy and walks. He will be re-evaluated by his orthopedic vet in December. He indicated that we may never achieve a bend in the back knees, but he is very pleased with his progress thus far.
Schnitz also made his debut at the Weinerfest in College Station recently… he was quite a hit. He enjoyed every minute of being fussed over by volunteers and attendees alike. In addition to meeting new friends he managed to sneak in several long naps…. the puppy was pooped! Please consider donating to offset Schnitzel’s continuing medical and therapy bills. Thank you for your support!
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