Client Name: Barb
Patient Name: Oliver

“Oliver is the sweetest boy! We are always happy to see him with his wagging tail in the clinic so we can give him some love (and therapy).

Dr. Amber Ihrke

A dog wearing red sunglasses is displayed inside a glass case
Brief History of Pet

How I got Oliver is a pretty funny story.  I was not looking to get another dog!  I was on my way to the Covered Bridge Festival in Indiana with my sisters when we saw a sign for puppies.  I said we need to stop and take a look.  You always have to look at puppies!  I figured they were random puppies from someone’s farm.  Turned out to be AKC lab and golden retriever puppies! There were a handful of lab puppies in this fenced area, when one of them ran over, put his paws up on the fence and looked me right in the eyes!  My sister claims that “he picked me”.  I picked him up and of course he melted my heart.  On our way back, a few days later, I picked him up and the rest is history. 

Why VSMR?

Interesting story when he was young…when he would swim, I noticed that he never used his back left leg.  I thought he was just conserving energy.  I didn’t know.   A little while later I notice that he walked funny.  The doctor took x-rays, and Oliver was diagnosed with left hip dysplasia when he was only a few years old.  My vet recommended that I do something for him since he was so young.  I ended up hearing about VSMR and brough him in for a consult.  Dr. Amber and the whole staff really impressed me.  They listened to what I had to say, thoroughly checked out Oliver, and recommended treatment. 

Favorite Motivator

Oliver is always content with a soft blanket to rest on and lots of love.

How VSMR has helped

I don’t know how many years it has been that Oliver has been seeing Dr. Amber and the staff, but I truly believe therapy has helped.  Over the years, Oliver’s front right elbow has developed dysplasia, and both his hips are failing, but he loves coming to see the girls for his water therapy, massage, and acupuncture.  It gives him short-term relief and better quality of life.  I don’t believe he would still be here today without getting therapy.

“Oliver is a sweet senior boy who lights up the office every time he comes to visit. He is always so happy to see everyone, and they all know him by name. He is so easy going and a joy to work with every time he comes to see us.”
Dr. Brittany Ludwig

Addition Information:

Oliver will be 13 years old this August.  He is the sweetest, most loyal, and loving dog.  He is my shadow, and I love it.  Back in his younger days, he played ball 24/7 if he could.  Now he lies on his side and I roll the ball to him, and he hits it back to me with his nose.  No more running.  He loves the water and is always out in the yard hunting for rodents, bunnies, and birds.  He’s a special dog!

Non-Profit Organization:

PAWS Tinley Park

Two dogs dressed in colorful baseball uniforms