When Ruby Rose Suddenly Lost the Ability to Walk And How Advanced Neurology Care Helped Her Recover

Ruby Rose, a sweet 4.5-year-old Toy Poodle, went from a normal day to a frightening emergency in moments. She suddenly lost strength in all four legs and could not stand or walk. Even though she didn’t cry or show obvious pain, her family knew something wasn’t right and sought help immediately.

A local emergency hospital referred Ruby to Pinnacle Veterinary Specialists for advanced neurologic care. When she arrived, Ruby remained quiet but unable to walk, with weakness affecting all four limbs. Our team admitted her right away and began stabilizing her while working to understand what was happening.

We placed an IV catheter, started bloodwork and IV fluids, and closely monitored her vital signs. Pain management medications kept Ruby comfortable as we moved quickly to the next steps of her care.

The following day, Pinnacle’s Neurology Service performed a complete neurologic examination. The findings pointed to the upper cervical spinal cord, leading to advanced imaging. An MRI confirmed an atlantoaxial subluxation with a spinal cord contusion, and a CT scan allowed our team to plan surgery with precision.

Given the seriousness of her condition, surgical stabilization offered Ruby the best chance at recovery. She underwent an atlantoaxial stabilization procedure the next day. The surgery went smoothly, and postoperative imaging confirmed everything was in place.

Recovery took patience and time. Ruby rested at home under strict activity restrictions, and her progress steadily improved. At her one-month recheck, she was walking on her own with only mild weakness. Six months later, Ruby was doing very well at home, continuing to regain strength and enjoy life with her family.

What began as a terrifying moment became a hopeful outcome. Thanks to her family’s quick action and the support of Pinnacle’s specialty team, Ruby Rose was able to move forward, stronger and brighter than before.