Testimonials: I learned to walk at C.A.R.E.

Bowlie

We had a fantastic experience at CARE- from my first phone call when Andrew’s voice was calming and reassuring, and he got Dr. Waldman to explain the procedures and possibilities of what to expect, we knew we had found the best place for our paralyzed dog.

Every visit brought a little progress and a lot of love. The exceptional staff all brought their expertise and love of animals.

We were very fortunate that after only two weeks Bowlie started showing signs of movement in her legs, and after two months she was really walking. She may never do her ‘’ circus tricks’’ again, but she is now walking, running, going up and down stairs easily and showing no signs of pain.

CARE gave our healthy dog back to us. What better testimonial can we offer?
We are happy to discuss our experience at CARE with prospective clients. Yes it is expensive, yes it is worth it. We highly recommend this excellent rehabilitation facility to others.

S. Epstein
March 2013

Mochi

When Mochi first injured her back and had to have surgery, I knew she would need rehabilitation afterwards. We care to CARE and under the care of Dr. Waldman & the staff there, she regained her ability to walk within a few months! Four years later, we are still coming for her tune ups! Mochi and I love the doctors and the staff here. They are the best! Thanks again CARE!

J. Chee
February 2013

Sadie

In November 2012, my eleven year old Pomeranian, Sadie, was diagnosed with Syringomyelia. Sadie’s first symptoms began in her front legs. Sadie frequently fell as she walked because her front legs were continuously giving out. Shortly after, her front legs began to splay which make it difficult to even stand. The symptoms quickly progressed to her back legs. Ultimately, Sadie was left with very little feeling or strength in all four legs and was almost completely paralyzed. As a result, Sadie needed help to perform basic day-to-day functions. (eating, drinking, urinating, etc.).

The neurologist eliminated surgery as a viable option, due to Sadie’s age, and recommended she only be treated with medication. Luckily, the neurologist also referred me to CARE. Dr. Voulgaris proposed an extensive rehabilitation plan that included weekly physical therapy/acupuncture sessions, daily in-home exercises, supplements, and an all-natural diet. After only two months of treatment, Sadie is doing what I thought she would never do again. She is standing, walking, eating, drinking, and “going potty” on her own! My goals for Sadie have been completely surpassed in the short time she has been visiting CARE. Although Sadie is not completely recovered yet, I see progress every single day. I have high hopes for Sadie’s future now and will be forever grateful to the staff at CARE for giving Sadie her life back.

K. Kuraoka
January 2013

Oscar

When my beloved cat of nearly 17 years fell 12 feet from a mezzanine wall inside our home, he suffered something called a tail avulsion and nerve damage that limited his mobility in his back end/hind legs and rendered him incapable of controlling his feces or urinating on his own.  The emergency hospital originally suspected he would have to have his tail amputated. Within several weeks of his fall, our veterinarian, who was not in favor of amputation, referred us to Dr. Waldman and CARE. Within less than a month after starting physical therapy and acupuncture sessions at CARE, Oscar had regained a substantial amount of his mobility to the point where he was able to jump short distances and move about comfortably on his own. While his beautiful tail never had full sensation or motion again, it was otherwise healthy and did not need to be amputated. While he never regained fecal control and never fully regained his ability to urinate on his own, he did improve markedly. He went from not being able to urinate on his own at all and needing his bladder manually expressed 6-8 times a day to having some bladder control and much more comfort. About two months after treatment started, Oscar was diagnosed with chronic renal failure, further complicating his condition. In addition to the typical fluid and diet treatment for CRF, Dr. Waldman and her team incorporated treatment for his renal failure into their acupuncture therapy. I am certain that the treatment Oscar received at CARE helped him heal and live longer than he would have had he not had this treatment. I am so grateful for everything everyone at CARE did for Oscar and for helping him enjoy a better, more comfortable quality of life through his final days. All of the doctors and therapists at CARE are amazing, knowledgeable and compassionate. They got to know Oscar and the idiosyncrasies of his personality and needs as if he was their own. They were also very accommodating and understanding in helping me find the right balance and course of treatment given my financial constraints. They gave me exercises and stretches to do at home and they also provided great suggestions for helping improve Oscar’s condition through enhanced nutrition. And, not unimportantly, the front desk staff was always warm, friendly and accommodating.  All in all, we had a great experience at CARE and I would not hesitate to take another pet in need back should it become necessary.

Anne Marie Burke
January 2013

Floyd

Floyd lost his leg to cancer a few months ago. He went into therapy as a preventative measure and this treatment here has been top notch and everyone has been so lovely and patient.
Everyone here has helped him maintain his core strength and has strengthened his remaining limbs. I am so grateful for the care he has been given.
Thank you so much. Well worth the investment.

K. Moennig
September 2012

Brownie

"CARE has the most loving and wonderful family of Vets and attendants who truly help the animals with love and kindness. My dog could not walk when she came. They said they could help her. Now she is playing and walking. She can also run."

A. Garrity - May 2012

Webster

I brought Webster to CARE after he hurt his back and could not lie down without yelping in pain.  Dr. Waldman did a very thorough and impressive evaluation of his posture, gait, muscle size, diet, and medications.  She prescribed a combination of diet and lifestyle changes, as well as physical therapy, and over time, Webster’s condition has markedly improved and he is back to comfortably walking and lounging around and being happy.

I recommend CARE as a first option (or any option!) for any pet owner whose pet is in pain and might even be a candidate for surgery.  The veterinarians are all very thorough and knowledgeable, and it is clear that everyone on staff is concerned about seeing your pet get better.  I have seen firsthand how they treat all the animals under their care and it is with an impressive amount of patience and love, no matter how difficult the case might be or how unpleasant the task.  Not only that, they are extremely professional and detail-oriented.  We are so fortunate to have CARE in Los Angeles!  Thanks CARE!

E.C., May 2012

Honey

When Honey came in she was dragging her rear and after 4wks she is now walking just fine. Thanks CARE!

R. Kite, April 2011

Kodi Bear

As we all remember when I first brought Kodi Bear to CARE, he was beginning to fail in his attempt to move about. He then shut down completely. After 4 weeks of rehab, Kodi Bear was up and walking once more. We couldn’t be more delighted and grateful for getting our dog back to functional and mobile. Thank you to Dr. Waldman and the very competent staff at CARE.

J. H., December 2010

Cleo

"My dog, Cleo, became paralyzed in her hind legs on 12/18/09. I was told by my vet to take her to City of Angels Hospital in Culver City, which I did and Cleo had surgery on her 2 hind legs. She stayed for 10 days and the Surgeon informed me there was a rehab place I should take her to. It was the best thing I did. She is still having therapy but does stand on her own and takes a few steps. CARE has therapists, doctors, etc. Each and every one of them are the best- I highly recommend them if your dog needs help."

Iris Yeramian, October 2010

Princess Clover

"Princess Clover’s Care at “CARE” has been life altering. She came to CARE unable to use her hind legs, in pain and recovering from disc/spinal surgery. In the last four weeks she’s strengthened her core, her legs and relearned the art of “walking the runway” almost without staggering. She’s now mobile at home, happy and improving daily. The staff and Dr. JW are my heroes. 'We' love you.
Blessings & Gratitude,"

J.B., June 2010

Roxie

"My Roxie was an overweight and non-active dog that unfortunately had such a hard time wanting to be because of her bad front paws. By coming to CARE and meeting Dr. Oxford I now have a healthy Roxie, who has lost so much weight because of her wonderful new diet plan, supplements and exercises (which by the way, the diet has put my other 3 dogs into perfect shape too!) Roxie will always have bad front paws, but they will now not get worse than what they are now and that’s because of all that has been done for her here at CARE. Thank you!! Roxie thanks you too!!!"

E. J. Castillo
May 2010

TJ Stubbs

"The Entire staff has been friendly and helpful. Any questions were promptly answered and any problems rapidly addressed. We saw our dog go from a point where he was dragging his back legs to where he is walking and even running in a very short time. The staff seemed even more pleased with his progress than we were and we were overjoyed. We cannot say enough about the care given to our dog and the work and accomplishments achieved. We tell everyone about the wonder work done here and the hope there is for handicapped pets."

D.R., January 2010

Sadie

"The people who work at CARE are the most amazing and caring group of people I have met, ever. The first time I took Sadie to CARE, it was a last ditch effort to save her. Sadie could not stand up by herself, could not put the pad of one of her paws on the ground, she would set the top of her foot down instead, she could not take herself outside to do her business, was lethargic and had no will. We had taken her to two different veterinarians, trying to find out what was wrong with her. She was given several medications, none of which made a big difference, and her condition was a mystery to the vets. Then we found CARE.

From the time we walked in the door, I could feel the love, enthusiasm and care for the animals and their owners. Sadie was thoroughly assessed by a veterinarian and a physical therapist, and I was given an evaluation of her condition, along with a plan for her recovery. It was all very professional and I felt like we were in good hands. A few days later, Sadie had her first appointment. We had to carry her in and out because she was so weak. I was a bit apprehensive, because Sadie did not like anyone other than me to help her. She was a little grumpy that first session, but the people who worked with her were like dog whisperers. It amazed me how kindly they treated her and how quickly they gained her trust and got her to start working. After the first visit, Sadie actually looked forward to going to CARE. I think she liked all the positive feedback and goodies she got when she went there. When she would accomplish something as small as walking, everyone in the room would cheer her on. Sadie also never liked baths, so I was wondering how they were going to get her in the underwater treadmill. She willingly walked in and did her exercise! It was more like a doggie jacuzzi, if you ask me.

Acupuncture was another hurdle I thought she would have a problem with, but the first time, and every one after that, she was so relaxed, she slept through the entire session. Sadie loved the massages she got from the physical therapist, and would groan in pleasure. She even liked the hurdles and the balance board. Sadie wagged her tail the whole time she was there. Before long, Sadie was getting up by herself, letting herself out the doggie door, and even walking blocks with me. I felt like I got my dog back, all because of the wonderful people at CARE. I will be forever grateful to them, and cannot help but sing their praises every time I tell Sadie’s story."

B.A.
January 2010

Sofia

"Just before Christmas 2008, Sofia, our 5 year old standard dachshund, suffered a ruptured disc and required surgery. After 6 weeks she suffered a second ruptured disc and needed emergency surgery. She was unable to stand or walk on her rear legs and had lost control of her bladder and bowels. Our surgeon referred us to CARE for physical therapy.

After two months of 3x a week therapy, including doing underwater treadmill, exercises and acupuncture, we see a marked improvement in her ability to try to walk again. We also received a series of exercises to do with Sofia at home. In addition, Dr. Oxford designed a dietary program aiding in Sofia’s rehabilitation that we will continue to follow.

Everyone at CARE is absolutely amazing, professional and most of all loving. Doctors and therapists for us two-legged creatures should take lessons. We would recommend CARE to anyone without reservation. Thank you for all you did to help return Sofia to a happy life!"

The grateful ‘parents’
K.L., June 2009

Mosley

"California Animal Rehab is incredible. They went above and beyond my expectations. When I brought my dog, Mosley, into the center, she had no use of either of her back legs and had not for 6 months. We had done some treadmill work at a facility in Indiana. I had seen small glimpses of hope and nerve responses, but to nearly anyone else who saw her, she was a lost cause. She had sores from dragging her legs and she was completely incontinent. I saw the determination in my dog and I saw that she wasn't ready to give up. Dr. Waldman saw that too. Our initial meeting was very personal and detailed. She spent time with Mosley. One thing I have never felt in this center, like you do at other doctor offices, was that I was just another paycheck. They are never rushing through their treatments and at the same time, Mosley is never left in the waiting room to be seen. Everyone can appreciate that sort of respect!! The entire staff is great! Mosley's improvement since she came to CARE is unbelievable. Her vet suspects she has a "disk disease" that caused paralysis from a slipped disk. She spent months with no use of her legs. CARE brought her from there to completely walking! She also has more control of her bathroom issues. She is a happy, happy dog. My neighbors call her the "miracle dog". It was amazing and emotional to watch the videos comparing her first day or rehab to her most recent visit. I'm so grateful for everything CARE has done for me and Mos. They will always have a special place in my heart."

J.G., November 2008

Indiana

"Indiana was treated like canine royalty by the staff at C.A.R.E. during his rehab. He made great improvements in the 4 weeks he was with Dr. Waldman, Dr. Kramer, and company. It is one of a kind treatment and now my dog will finally swim since he had aqua therapy at C.A.R.E.

Thanks to all of you!"

B.P., October 2008

Cleo

"Cleo can walk! Thank you CARE! Cleo was hit by a car on Jan 30, 2008. After 6 days in ICU at ASEC, she was released to me, stable but unable to lift herself, sit up or walk.

In March, Cleo began physical therapy sessions with CARE twice a week. Water therapy and physical therapy, plus exercises Cleo and I did at home. We also added vitamins and supplements, as suggested. The results were slow but steady, but all positive. Around the end of May, Cleo stood up all by herself and took her first few steps. Now, in July, only 6 months later, Cleo runs around the backyard with my other dogs. If I believed in miracles, she'd be one. I believe in supplements, physical therapy and the dedication of your staff. Cleo would never have regained her ability to walk without the physical therapy program at CARE."

S.G., July 2008

Leo

"Thank you for helping us and Leo so much! We have learned so much since the minute we walked through the door for the tour! The advice and techniques we’ve learned are invaluable. We know with tough love and prayer, Leo will be walking again soon! We’re committed to his full recovery. We thank you so much for all your help! You guys are not only knowledgeable, you are awesome! Thanks and God Bless!"

L.D., July 2008

Arlo

"Dr. Waldman and everyone at C.A.R.E has performed nothing less than a miracle with our thirteen and a half year old Lab, Arlo. When I brought him in, he had just had laryngeal surgery, then pneumonia. He was terribly weak, would barely lift his head, and would not eat. He had such bad arthritis and muscle atrophy that he could not stand nor walk, on his back legs at all, and he had to be walked with a harness to keep his back legs from dragging on the ground.

Through the loving care and expertise of Dr. Waldman and Amy (I don't know her last name!) who is such a talented physical therapist, Arlo became evidence that miracles can happen. He is now able to stand and walk, wander the garden and sniff the grass, bark at birds, and really enjoy his life, something I was so worried that he would never be able to do again. When we came to C.A.R.E I
told Dr. Waldman that I wanted Arlo to be able to run on the beach, even if it were just one more time in his life. She said, "Well, let's try". I know she was protecting me from my hopes, but what I saw from there on out was great knowledge, and experience, and most wonderfully, a determination to do everything she could. She kept her promise, and put him on a regimen of acupuncture,
anti-inflamatories, physical exercises and massage. The funny thing is that Arlo, terrified of the groomer, and shaking when we go to the regular vet, gets himself up and to the door excited to go to his therapy.

The end of our story is that we have been to the beach three times now, and to watch him trot in and out of the tides and sniff seaweed and play, even though still a still a little wobbly, and not as speedy as he used to be, he looks to be just about the happiest dog ever. And I am the happiest dog owner. I do not have enough words to thank Dr. Waldman and Amy and the wonderful and amazing staff at C.A.R.E. Their commitment and caring have supported us and carried us a long way. I cannot possibly think what we would have done without them, and I will be grateful always for the life they gave back to Arlo."

D.R.

Eddie

"Eddie has made great progress at C.A.RE. He could hardly walk when he first arrived for therapy. With much extra effort on the part of Amy Kramer and Jessica Waldman, Eddie is an active, happy dog who continues to improve."

N.D.

Wily

"While under the care of a dogwalker, Wily was hit by a van. Neurologists had little hope that he would have use of his hind legs. This was April 8, 2008. He began at CARE about 2 ½ weeks later, and for the next 8 weeks, began the most amazing healing process ever. It's nothing short of a miracle what Drs. Jessica and Amy and the entire staff at CARE have done for our boy. Every single day we saw, and still see, improvement. Wily went from me having to express his bladder and using a sling, to wobbling about and falling, to now chasing our cats again and singing. We are beyond overjoyed to see Wily back on all fours and back to his spirited self – we are stunned and in awe.. and completely grateful. The combination of exercises, the treadmill (although Wily had to do it dry for a long time because he doesn't like water), acupuncture, diet, and everyone's sheer will made it all happen, and we couldn't be more thankful. We will continue for awhile at CARE as Wily still has a little bit to go. Our goal now is to get him back to the park with his friends!"

R.F.

Monkey

"In July 07 our 4 yr. old peekapoo Monkey suffered a ruptured disc and required emergency surgery. The post-op prognosis was not good with regard to Monkey being able to walk again, and also her ability to control her bladder and bowels.

We were referred to CARE to get Monkey into physical therapy, but mainly because they do a lot of work with paralyzed dogs. We went with the unfortunate idea that Monkey would need wheels.

From the first day at CARE I knew that if there were any chance of Monkey walking that these were the people to help make it happen. Without giving false hope, they were positive, supportive, enthusiastic and most

importantly believed in Monkey to regain as much as she could.

After 2 months of therapy at CARE Monkey went from 95% paralyzed to walking. (Albeit with a few falls here and there!) She came to being dropped off there, and during a 10 day stay she really made a dramatic improvement. I dropped her off dragging her legs, and when I picked her up she walked to me!

When Monkeys work was done, it was very hard to leave everyone there. They gave her so much time, love, and care that there really isn’t any way to show gratitude.

Hopefully this will never happen to us again, but if it does we know where to go to find our way back!"

Sincerely,
M.R.F.

Sammi

"SAMMI'S BACK! Let me introduce you to Sammi. A most unique dog. He is an eight year old spinger spaniel who was lucky enough to have met a most unique team of humans to help him. While barking at a neighbors dog one day, Mom noticed he had begun limping. His limping became worse, and after only two weeks his limping had turned into falling down. Upon her visit to her local vet, she was told he had a spinal injury. Further tests revealed that he had a slipped disk just below his neck. Well, a

After the surgery and nine days in the hospital, Sammi came to C.A.R.E. He could not walk at all, or even hold his little head up. Nobody was sure if he would ever walk again. Dr. Jessica took good care of Mom that day and Amy took him into her heart and into her world of rehabilitation. She worked with him tirelessly everyday, as did the entire crew of C.A.R.E. They showed us that anything is possible and they showed Sammi how to be strong. And he did. Now, Sammi is walking and running like the other dogs. What a beautiful thing life is.

THANK YOU ALL AT C.A.R.E. SO MUCH FOR GIVING ME MY LIFE BACK!
LOVE, SAMMI"

More on Sammi:
Sammi's Story (PDF Article)
Sammi's Story - Montage (Video)
Sammi's Owner Sees Him Walk for the First Time (Video)

Benny

"Benny had back surgery on July 03, 2007 with an 80-85% expected recovery. We found CARE 6 weeks post surgery and Benny could walk but only with assistance as he slipped and fell every few steps. We started a program of acupuncture and therapy 2x a week and saw progress immediately. But, after 4 weeks was our biggest breakthrough-no more "monkey pants" or rather assistance with a sling.

I would say we are now at 90% fully recovered and we are still working towards 100%. We would never have seen this recovery rate without the loving staff at CARE. They truly changed our recovery outcome and helped me to know how to help my dog for optimum results.

Thank you thank you thank you!"

L.A.D.