Skittles is a 2-year-old male “Aussie mix” who was confiscated from a hoarding situation along with 20 other dogs.
Skittles
Despite the fact that his back legs were severely deformed (like seal flippers or in permanent first position like a ballet dancer) he maneuvered his way right up to the officers on the scene.
Skittles
With his cute personality they quickly fell in love with him and called Robin to see if Malibu Pet Companions could help. The MPC board agreed and Skittles was soon on his way to Agoura Animal Shelter.
Skittles
Once at the shelter Skittles was immediately taken to Malibu Coast Animal Hospital for x-rays and a thorough exam. It was determined that Skittles had been born this way and had in essence been in a sitting position for two years. Dr. Dean thought he could help Skittles walk more normally and surgery was scheduled.
Skittles
Both of his legs were done at once and he came through the surgery beautifully. He even "walked" the morning after his surgery to go potty.
Skittles
Skittles has now been recovering for one month. The first two weeks he was confined to a crate for rest. Soon his foster mom found this delightful "people friendly" guy was happier resting on a foam dog bed and being with the family watching TV (dog appropriate shows of course!). He then joined another foster mom who took him to his first rehab appointment with K9Gym in Agoura.
Skittles
Dr. Bailey checked his range of motion and determined physical therapy exercises would help strengthen and lengthen his legs allowing him more and more range of motion. He also began receiving once a week tread mill therapy at K9Gym. Skittles continues to improve every day learning to use his now repaired back legs more and more.
Walking in water
Skittles
Can I get out now?
Skittles
Wet but happy that tread mill therapy is done!
Skittles
Skittles is looking for his forever home. So if you've fallen in love with those big brown eyes of his, please contact robin@malibupetcompanions.org today!
Malibu Pet Companions (MPC) is a community-based, all volunteer-operated, non-profit 501c3 organization. Our mission is to fund medical care for sick, injured, and unweaned homeless pets at the Agoura Animal Shelter (part of LA County Animal Care and Control). Care includes prescription medicines, surgery (including spay/neutering if not yet altered) diagnostic testing, and special food.
We depend on donations to provide the medical treatment these animals need so they can be restored to good health and subsequently adopted into loving homes. By funding their care, we save their lives and give them a second chance!
