Client Name: Sandy and Brian
Patient Name: Lexi

“Lexi is a sweet, sweet boxer who came to us with Degenerative Myelopathy. Even though this is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, we have been able to keep Lexi mobile in many ways. She is now in a cart to assist with her mobility and is still active and thriving!”

Dr. Amber Ihrke

Brief History of Pet

Lexi became part of our family on August 5, 2017, at the age of 3 ½ years. My close friend Gina Freer, Inspiration’s Boxers and breeder of Lexi, always knew I loved Lexi because she is the granddaughter of our Kirby. When I lost my female Sydney, Gina asked me if I would like to have Lexi. I responded yes. Lexi was a Champion and Gina was very happy that I would be continuing to work with her in performance which includes rally and obedience.

Why VSMR?

In January 2024 Lexi was diagnosed at risk for Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) which is the ALS of dogs. Even though the DM does not cause pain it does cause the loss of mobility. We were familiar with DM because her grandmother Kirby also had DM. Dr. Jeff Sankey, her Vet from Palos Animal Hospital, suggested VSMRHG and said other patients have gone there and were very satisfied with the evaluations and therapy that the VSMRHG provided their pet. Lexi has been attending physical therapy sessions of laser, acupuncture, massages and water therapy

Favorite Motivator

Lexi loves her diced chicken and peanut butter to keep her focused during therapy

“We are lucky to spend time with Lexi and her humans. She is such a motivated girl – nothing can keep her down! She even continues obedience in her cart. Keep up the great work, Lexi!!”

Dr. Brittany Ludwig

How VSMR has helped

Lexi’s rehabilitation program customized by Dr. Amber and Dr. Brittany and working with Kat Holich has helped in keeping Lexi strong. Lexi still plays with toys, runs in the yard and enjoys life. Lexi has a cart now thanks to VSMRHG and enjoys walking through the neighborhood and meeting new people. In fact, she met our mailman, Keith the other day. Lexi cannot wait for our friend John to visit again. When we mention his name, she runs to the door to see him

Non-Profit Organization

Boxer Rebound, Inc
4915 Ringwood Road
Ringwood, IL 60072

Addition Information:

Lexi was awarded her Champion title in August 2015 at the age of 19 mos. Lexi was awarded the First Award of Merit at the 2018 American Boxer Club Specialty. January 2019 Lexi was awarded her Grand Champion title. Lexi was awarded at 2022 American Boxer Club Specialty, High Scoring Champion of Record in Novice B Obedience.

Lexi AKC name:
GCH CH Inspiration’s Red Carpet Arm Candy CD BN RE RI RN AOM CGC 2015 – Champion Title, 2017 – Canine Good Citizen, 2018 – Award of Merit & Beginner Novice, 2019 – Grand Champion & Rally Novice, 2020 – Rally Intermediate, 2022 – Companion Dog & Rally Advanced and 2023 – Rally Excellent.

While the DM that Lexi has continues to slow her down she still loves to continue her obedience training with the use of her new K-9 cart