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River had developed severe osteoarthritis and
as a result had suffered muscle atrophy in his rear hip area. A plan
was put together that addressed pain management, muscle improvement and
strengthening, stress reduction and confidence building.
River came into my life in a rather dramatic fashion when he
was a 1 year old pup and rescued by the Chicago Police Marine Unit, as he was
stuck on the ice floes in the Chicago River in the middle of January 2001. He was
discovered by the WGN news helicopter and his rescue was broadcast live as he
repeatedly slipped into the frigid water and then would fight his way back onto a piece of floating
ice. As a police sergeant in the Marine Unit I was used to trying to help
people in challenging situations but this was different. River's will to live was amazing and
inspirational. After a 2 hour rescue attempt River was finally pulled to safety
and taken to Animal Control. He became
an instant celebrity and I was lucky enough to adopt him after no one came
forward to claim him.
He changed my life in so many ways. He taught me life
lessons about loyalty, gratitude and courage that I can't begin to explain. We
were instant pals and he soon was the "Mayor of Old Irving Park" where the neighbors
would yell hello on our long walks and the kids would line up to give him
treats.
Three years ago, River suddenly refused to go up the back
stairs and couldn't run or jump the way he used to. Some close friends in the police dept that
had bomb detection dogs at O'Hare
airport quickly recommended Integrative Pet Care for diagnosis and
treatment. They told me "You can trust them." I was there the next day. River had developed severe osteoarthritis and
as a result had suffered muscle atrophy in his rear hip area. A plan
was put together that addressed pain management, muscle improvement and
strengthening, stress reduction and confidence building. This was done by
using underwater treadmill, pool swimming, laser, acupuncture, and stretching
programs. The staff was fantastic, from diagnosis by vets that specialize in
rehab, rehab technicians that are highly certified, friendly and love your dog
as much as you do, to the talented personnel that run the desk, schedule all of
the treatments, manage scheduling of necessary medications and treat your pet
with genuine love.
It's been almost three years, and there is no doubt that River would not be
here if it wasn't for the help, guidance
and expertise provided by IPC. He is stable, functioning, confident and most of
all happy. Thank You, IPC, from the bottom of my heart for all of your help,
love and support. The guys were right, you can be trusted.
-Jim Gantz
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