Dudley had his surgery last week and it went very well. They amputated the damaged tissue and bone, and built him a temporary prosthetic. A mold was made of his leg and shipped to the prosthetic company and they are now creating his permanent prosthesis which will arrive in a month.

When Dudley awoke from the anesthesia, it took a long time for him to get his strength back. Prey animals like horses and cows have survival instincts that make them want to stand up right away, but standing up too soon could cause injury. So we had to help Dudley stay lying down for a while. After about an hour or two, Dudley seemed strong enough to stand up. Then, he had to get used to his prosthesis. At first he wanted to shake it off. However, after awhile he got used to it and even started putting weight on it. In the days following surgery, Dudley practiced standing, getting up and walking, all in an attempt to feel comfortable with his cast.

This week Dudley started physical therapy. He got E-stim, which sends electro- magnetic pulses to stimulate the muscles so he can start developing and strengthening his atrophied muscles on his damaged leg. He also got acupuncture and ultrasound to help with pain and body strength. He is getting lots of Sun Chlorella in his food twice a day and has treats throughout the day to boost his immune system and help him heal quickly. Black Wing farms also came to Dudley’s rescue by sending their essential oils for courage which we put in his water bowl.

Dudley was very timid of humans when we met for good reasons. Each day he is truly becoming more and more brave. This week when the vet student bent down to clean his water bowl, Dudley went over to her and licked her face. Even though he has not lived the most ideal life until now, Dudley is still so innocent and curious. We cannot wait to show him the life he deserved all along. One day he will give and receive many hugs and the first year of his life will not even be remembered!

Dudley will be at the wonderful University of Tennessee at Knoxville for at least two months and his care is very expensive. We cannot do this without you, please help us save Dudley and keep in mind that even small donations make a difference! www.gentlebarn.org Thank you!

Written by Ellie Laks

Founder, The Gentle Barn