Dog Who Lost Use of Back Legs Now Standing and Taking Steps Again

PORTLAND, OR – When Obi, a 9-year-old German Shepherd mix, first arrived at DoveLewis 24/7 Animal Hospital, he could not use his back legs. A sudden spinal cord injury had taken away his ability to stand or walk, leaving his family unsure if he would ever regain mobility.

Thanks to months of rehabilitation care at DoveLewis, Obi can now take steps on his own again.

Spinal injuries like Obi's are often linked to either a slipped disc or a sudden loss of blood flow to the spinal cord. In Obi’s case, a blood flow disruption is considered the most likely cause. This kind of event acts much like a stroke, damaging the nerves and leading to sudden paralysis.

In the early days, Obi was unable to support himself and relied on a wheelchair for mobility. His rehabilitation team at DoveLewis quickly developed a structured recovery plan focused on rebuilding strength, coordination, and comfort while protecting his spine as it healed.

His treatment included underwater treadmill therapy, guided physical therapy exercises, laser therapy, and neuromuscular electrical stimulation. At home, his family worked closely with the DoveLewis team on daily stretching, assisted standing, and mobility exercises.

Over time, Obi began showing small but meaningful signs of recovery. First a small tail wag, then movement in his right hind leg, followed by the ability to stand with support.

Today, he can take several steps on his own, something his family once thought was out of reach.

Along the way, his personality has never faded. Obi still makes it clear when it’s time for a peanut butter lick mat, and he’ll proudly offer an enthusiastic “high five” if you ask. That same enthusiasm carries over to his rehabilitation visits at DoveLewis, where his family says he starts barking excitedly the moment he recognizes the parking lot, eager to get inside.

“Obi’s journey to taking steps on his own again is something we’re incredibly proud of,” said DoveLewis Rehabilitation Veterinarian Dr. Jordan McKinney. “It’s the product of consistent, hands-on rehabilitation care and a family who never stopped showing up for him.”

While Obi still has a long road ahead of him, his progress has been steady and encouraging. He continues weekly rehabilitation sessions and a dedicated home exercise program focused on building muscle, improving balance, and supporting long-term mobility.

Today, Obi is back on his feet and working toward even more independence, one step at a time.

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