Mature Lady Loved Skinny Dipping
Posted 1 December, 2015
Otter was a Black Lab who, at 13 years old, experienced sore joints and a painful right hip.
She was very stiff getting up off her bed. Owner Robin Gaustad said, "Otter
loves Darcy's treatment. On our regular route to the Yellowstone River for a
walk, we take Main Street past the Rehab building and Otter pulls on her leash
trying to cross the street for an unscheduled treatment."
Gaustad reports that
after physical therapy at Black Dog Rehab, Otter walked less stiffly, could go on
longer walks and still loved to play ball. The mature canine was able to walk to the West Boulder Meadow and take a skinny dip in her favorite
swimming hole.
"We will try to get her back to her favorite swimming spot this summer when
she's 14," says Gaustad, "and I know she will be able to with Darcy's help!"
*UPDATE* "On June 22 Otter walked to the meadow to swim. That was my goal for her by going to PT with Darcy this last year. We walked nice and slow and she did great. When we got to the top of the hill where you can see the creek she picked up speed with a stick in her mouth. I have never been happier! Otter will be 14 in September. Thank you to Darcy!"
Follow up, 2017: Otter lived life fully all the way to age 15, thanks to tender loving care from her Mom Robin, Canine Physical Therapy from Black Dog Rehab, and Dr. Chris O'Rourke's in-home hospice care for senior dogs. Here Otter is enjoying a ride in her cart and relishing the fresh air; a nature lover to the end. Rest in Peace sweet Otter, you will be missed.
