Harsh Beginnings
Blossom’s story is one that gives a great lesson in persistence and perseverance.
Shortly after her birth, Blossom’s young mother chewed off her pup’s rear paws. As a young first time mom, it was likely an accident. Instinct tells the mom to get the puppy’s sack off and bite off the umbilical cord with her teeth. Undoubtedly, biting off the paws probably happened very fast and without malice.
The dogs’ owner did her best to treat the wound on her own. Clearly, this puppy developed her own manner of mobility as she grew. Â Consequently, as Blossom matured and went outside, she had trouble walking on hard surfaces.
In 2013, Blossom turned 10-months old. Sadly, Blossom’s owner took her to the SPCA of Central Florida, citing she could not care for the puppy anymore. The odds of adoption with Blossom’s handicap were low. The staff filled the gap to provide comfort and support to Blossom.
After a week in the kennel, Rodney Purvis took Blossom home to foster her. As a result, Blossom was on her path to get an extraordinary life. Rodney started researching the possibilities for improving Blossom’s mobility.
The Path Forward
Rodney discovered a local organization – Prosthetics and Orthotics Associates. Not only were they delighted to help Blossom gain some mobility, but also built a course of action to reach the end goal.
As a result of not walking on her hind legs, Blossom had weak posterior muscles. This was resolved with swimming lessons twice per week. Blossom took to swimming, like a duck to water. Undoubtedly this easy exercise quickly strengthened her muscles.
The next step was to create custom prosthetic feet. The team focused on optimizing her flexibility while Blossom gained balance. Even so, it was learning to walk again for Blossom.
Over 6 months, the staff tried several combinations to get her prosthetics fit just right. Admittedly her rear legs are of different lengths, resulting in multiple adjustments. Blossom never gave up until the team found the right combination!
Loving Care
The affection between Rodney and Blossom is easy to see. Working together, Blossom walks and runs with unrestrained freedom with every clickity click of her unique feet. She has over 100 pairs of socks coordinated for every holiday, season, and event possible. Blossom is a trendy pup.
Rodney and Blossom are an inspiration to all. They both are a testimony to overcoming adversity. The power of love is on their side. Miracles often occur because people are involved and care to make a difference.
Blossom, go for the extra mile!
Attributions:
The Dodo https://youtu.be/SJR4CkwTx3Y
Blossom’s Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SeeBlossomRun
Blossom’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/seeblossomrun/