Backyard breeding of dogs is a dangerous practice that can have a lot of consequences for the puppies. We have to remember that most backyard breeders don’t have the necessary knowledge in breeding dogs. There are many instances where puppies coming from backyard breeders are abandoned because of physical deformation and health issues.
A Great Dane named Lumen is one of these dogs. When Luman was born, her paws were disfigured. Lumen had fused toes, and her main paw pad was missing. On top of all that, Lumen was also deaf.
Thankfully, Lumen was rescued by an animal rescue organization based on Eugene, Oregon called Luvable Dog Rescue. It was fate when a couple named Ashley and Christine also worked at the rescue. Having a soft spot for Great Danes and special needs dogs, Ashley and Christine decided to adopt Lumen. The first time the couple met Lumen, they fell in love with her and were willing to make sacrifices to care for Lumen.
Because of Lumen’s deformity on her paws, she wasn’t able to run like the other dogs. Lumen needed to tiptoe to move around, and she can’t walk for long distances. Lumen’s parents saw that this was frustrating Lumen because she sees other dogs run around. So, they decided to do whatever they can do help Lumen with her paw problems.
Ashley and Christine consulted with orthopedic surgeons and was refused because of the complexity of Lumen’s case. The surgeon even suggested euthanasia. The couple wouldn’t have any of it. Ashley and Christine wanted Lumen to grow up happy and healthy.
Eventually, they took Lumen to physical therapy. As part of the treatment, Lumen was placed on a water treadmill to exercise her legs and make it stronger. Lumen loved it. For the first time in her life, she was able to put her entire weight on her paws.
Lumen also had surgery to separate her fused toes. It was a long recovery process, which was hard for Lumen and her parents. However, it was all worth it. Lumen was also fitted with prosthetics to provide cushion on her paws. At first, it was very awkward for Lumen because the prosthetics were unfamiliar to her. However, once she got used to the feeling and realized that she could put her entire body weight on her paws, Lumen was never happier.
Wearing her prosthetics, Lumen started running like a normal dog. The joy in her face says it all. Lumen is delighted that she can now keep up with the other dogs and able to run around and play. Lumen became a puppy again, and her parents are so proud of her. Here’s a heartwarming video about what Lumen went through and how she instantly became a puppy again thanks to her new paws.
Video Source The Dodo via YouTube
