Disabled dogs get second chance with physical therapy program

Despite unfortunate circumstances, Charley and Jaxx apparently are two very lucky dogs.

The dachshund duo, both disabled, found their way into Pam Weibley’s home in Cove City, but as far as they’ve come in their journey, they still have a ways to go.

Weibley offered the dogs a foster home through her volunteer work with Ring Dog Rescue of Richmond, Va. While she cared for Charley and Jaxx over the past many months she taught them how to use their wheelchairs. They became part of her family, but still on Thursday she was ready to say farewell as they boarded a plan in New Bern, bound for New Orleans.

“It was heartbreaking, but I have to look at what’s in their best interests,” Weibley said on Friday. “If it helps them get better, I’ve got to say ‘you’ve got to go.’”

Charley and Jaxx are settled in at Dag’s House in Louisiana, a not-for-profit dog rehabilitation center. On Friday afternoon Charley had completed his first try on the underwater treadmill and Jaxx was taking his turn, said Tabitha Adams of Dag’s House. The dogs will stay as long as necessary, receiving physical therapy, acupuncture, laser therapy and specialized veterinary care. Eventually, Dag’s House will find them “forever homes” through an adoption process with very stringent guidelines, Adams said. After adoption, Dag’s House will continue to offer whatever physical therapy the dogs require.

Charley and Jaxx’s journey is made possible through a steady stream of volunteers and organizations ready to step up to the plate to help them. Both dogs were surrendered by their owners after their disabilities came to light. Charley may never walk again, but there is hope that Jaxx might, as he has sensation in both of his back legs.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity and we’d like to be able to educate the public more about disabled dogs,” Weibley said. “There’s a lot of help out there. They don’t need to be euthanized.”

Pilots N Paws volunteer Scott Messinger, of New Jersey, flew Charley and Jaxx to New Orleans. The volunteer pilots donate their time, airplanes and fuel to the cause, Weibley said. All of the organizations are not-for-profit and rely solely on the generosity of caring volunteers and private donors.

“To see a physically challenged dog strive to have a normal life and succeed is heartwarming and brings smiles to everyone,” Weibley said. “To see a disabled dog placed in a forever home is even more rewarding.”

P. Christine Smith can be reached at 252-635-5666 or pcsmith@freedomenc.com.