Case Studies

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Jelly Bean, a German Shepherd Dog, was adopted byBrad when she was six months of age. She had severe hip dysplasia, and he was told to expect shorter than average life with lots of medication required. She went along reasonably well for the first few years, Brad noted she had a few quirks, such as moaning a lot when she slept, but thought that was just her unique way. At around five years of age Brad noticed she was becoming grumpy and aggressive, he took her to a behaviourist who suggested she be checked out by a therapist. The therapist revealed Jelly Bean was in severe pain and recommended acupuncture, hydrotherapy and home exercises be commenced immediately. Results were rapid, and, when Jelly Bean started to sleep quietly, Brad realised just how much pain she had been in previously. Jelly Bean’s therapy continued and she went from strength to strength - she lost weight, her medications were reduced and she started running around happily again. She started to slow down at around ten years of age, but lived very comfortably for a couple more years; much longer than expected. Brad commented that the difference the pain management therapy made to her life and theirs was immeasurable.