It always saddens me to witness disabled dogs who cannot walk on all fours, utilizing small wheelchairs or simply dragging their legs behind them. Regardless of their limitations, these dogs are still immensely cherished and valued by their humans.
So what if they don’t resemble other dogs? That does not imply they are less deserving.
One of the disabled dogs that will not bring you sorrow, but will astonish you instead, is Dexter.
Although he was born a typical Brittany Spaniel, Dexter’s journey took some unforeseen paths. One unfortunate incident altered everything, yet it did not diminish Dexter’s desire to persevere.
This is a narrative about a dog that stands tall on his two legs and demonstrates to us all that nothing is unattainable.
A Day That Altered Everything
Upon acquiring Dexter, the Pasek family welcomed a jovial Brittany Spaniel puppy, overflowing with energy and affection. The family was ecstatic to have another dog in their lives, particularly the children, as their senior dog had passed away that year.
The quaint town of Ouray, Colorado, embraced Dexter warmly. His extraordinary spirit captured everyone’s hearts, and all wanted to be friends with him.
Nearly a year went by when a tragic event occurred. Dexter was approaching one year old. While he was technically an adult, he still behaved like a playful puppy. Little did Dexter realize that not every scent he encountered needed to be pursued.
Dexter understood that the world outside his yard wasn’t safe for a young puppy, especially one alone. Yet, his instincts urged him on.
Following an unfamiliar scent, Dexter ventured onto the street. Moments later, he found himself on the ground, struck by a speeding van. Everything felt like it was crashing down within seconds. It appeared that this was going to be Dexter’s final adventure.
Around a mile away from his residence, Dexter was sprawled in the dirt with both front legs severely injured. The poor pup was in excruciating pain, losing hope, and desperately wishing for his family to discover him.
Fortunately, his father, Tim, located him, and the family hurried him to the veterinary clinic, which was an hour away. Every second was crucial to save Dexter’s life.
Upon their arrival at the vet, it became apparent that Dexter’s injuries were grave.
“The vet acted swiftly, and soon determined that we’d have to amputate his right front paw, but that the left could be salvaged, though it wouldn’t be entirely functional. I knew we’d do everything in our power to save Dexter,” said mommy Kentee.
An Incredible Recovery
Dexter endured three days in the operating room, battling like a true champion for his life. Thankfully, veterinarians remained hopeful despite the severity of Dexter’s wounds. Rehabilitation would require considerable time. It wouldn’t be easy, but Dexter was fated to succeed.
“For a year, Dexter had to wear a cone, and we had a specially crafted wheelchair made that fit around his abdomen, with wheels in the front, so he could navigate on three legs,” Kentee explained.
However, the wheelchair was not really Dexter’s preferred option. He disliked it entirely and favored lying on the ground without it. Each morning, his mom would carry him down the stairs and leave him in the garden to enjoy the fresh air.
Dexter was still a young pup, brimming with vigor, at times even feeling frustrated because he couldn’t be like his companions. Nevertheless, Dexter was a clever boy. He devised a way to end his suffering.
One morning, as mommy left Dexter at the bottom of the stairs to fetch her coffee, Dexter ascended the stairs using his two legs.