Pet puppy bounces back to become Extraordinary Dog
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 A beloved pet puppy who was facing a life of pain after suffering a mystery injury has made a remarkable recovery – and is now set to be honoured at the world’s biggest dog show.
Fergus, a larger than life Leonberger, was just a few weeks old when his owners noticed he was having difficulty walking and struggling to stand from a sit. He was refusing food and slept much more than a puppy should.
But after undergoing a course of specialist canine muscle therapy he is bouncing back and displaying all the usual behaviour of a puppy. And his remarkable turnaround is set to be celebrated at Crufts where he will be named ‘extraordinary dog of the year’ by the canine therapist who helped get him back on his feet.
Fergus will be presented with the title by Julia Robertson, founder of Galen Myotherapy, the unique hands-on muscle remedy used to treat him.
His owner Vanessa Leppard, from Crowborough, East Sussex, said: “I really do not know what we would have done if we had not found Galen Myotherapy and Julia. He could have been looking at a life of operations and pain, but she has given Fergus a great future.
“Julia has a special way with dogs and seemed to understand straight away what was causing him problems. She undoubtedly gave Fergus a new lease of life and having him named as Galen’s Extraordinary Dog of the Year award is just the icing on the cake.”
Fergus’ problems started when he was just eight weeks old – the cause for which remain a mystery to his owner and breeder.
He was finding it difficult to walk, struggled to stand from sitting so was bottom shuffling instead, and wanted to sleep all the time – only staying awake for 1-2 hours a day. He was also picky with his food.
Vanessa sought advice and was told his behaviour was probably normal for a growing puppy of his size, but her concerns only grew as his unusual character quirks continued, and after talking to Fergus’ breeder she got in touch with Julia.
Julia’s treatment, Galen Myotherapy, is derived in-part from massage and helps dogs suffering from musculoskeletal pain, arthritis and underlying issues. It was hoped a course of myotherapy would improve Fergus’ mobility and it went on to have instant results.
After just one session Vanessa noticed an improvement in his behaviour - he was able to stand more easily, walked happily and climbed on the furniture like any cheeky puppy.
Julia, a former veterinary nurse, said: “Fergus’ transformation from a slow-moving, fatigued bottom-shuffler to a bouncy puppy that’s full of energy has been incredible and wonderful to see.
“He has been a joy to work with and his remarkable turnaround made him first choice for Galen’s Extraordinary Dog Award.”
Fergus will be presented with his award at Galen’s stand at Crufts at 12pm on Saturday, March 11.
The Galen team will be in Hall 3 Stand 28A for the Crufts weekend, where they will be demonstrating myotherapy and discussing the domestic dangers our homes can present to dogs. For more information about Galen Myotherapy visit www.caninetherapy.co.uk
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