Rex's Story

 

"My name is Rex, and I'm a German Shepherd from Holland. I was born in 2002 and came to the United States when I was a 13 month old pup to become a police dog. My partner Mike and I are certified in narcotics detection, tracking, evidence recovery, building and area searches and suspect apprehension. We work with the South Euclid Police Department, where I was the first police dog they ever had. I live at home with Mike and his family.

 

I first met Dr. Sivula in 2003 when he came to visit us at a training and told my partner about how important joint care was for a working dog. Chasing bad guys through back yards, over fences and everywhere else, plus the intense training we go through, puts a lot of pressure on a dog's body. Since then, Dr. Sivula has been giving me chiropractic adjustments, and I have to tell you, I love those visits! When I train to apprehend bad guys, I have a tendency to do so with reckless abandon, which can really beat up the joints, neck and spine. Nothing helps me to feel better like visits with Dr. Sivula when he gives me the once over. He also suggested some great supplements that help to keep my joints strong.

 

Now that I am 9 years old (in human years), Dr. Sivula thought it would be good for me to start an underwater treadmill therapy regimen. My dad noticed that I was getting older, and tiring out faster than before. I run in the warm water for about a half hour, and it has really helped my endurance and muscle tone without beating up my joints. Whenever I do the therapy, I feel so good afterward that I can't help but run around like a puppy! And let me tell you about the vet techs that help me when I'm in the tank. They are so great, encouraging me and telling me what a good boy I am. And Yoshi and Big Black are pretty cool, for cats. They help to entertain my three year old human brother while I work out.

 

Finally, as a police dog, I meet lots of different people and I have to tell you, Dr. Sivula and the staff at Dancing Paws Animal Wellness Center are some of the best people I have ever met. Each one of them truly cares about me and how I am doing. And having them in our corner means a lot to my dad. Keeping me healthy and working makes a big difference in the community we protect.

Love, Rex"