Valerik is a 3 year old Mix-Breed in Russia who needs $2,000 for Spinal Stabilization, Hospitalization, and Rehab.

*Big Little Life Animal Rescue International*

What humans have done to Valerik is impossible to comprehend. They kept this small boy hostage and abused him every day. Then, they threw him out by someone’s house, leaving him starved, dehydrated, scared, covered in wounds, bruises and scars, and with a broken spine. We found him completely immobile and in shock.

Valerik is only 3 years old and he is in the ICU in critical condition. He was immediately hospitalized, received a blood transfusion and put on fluids. Once stable, he was taken to surgery to stabilize his vertebrae. During surgery, it was discovered his spinal cord was completely severed, which will significantly impact his mobility.

Nevertheless, we remain hopeful and committed to giving Valerik the best possible care and rehabilitation. The veterinarian is currently aspirating hemorrhagic fluid through the drain. Valerik will remain hospitalized for a few days before we transfer him to a boarding facility with a rehab center known for doing miracles with dogs who have spinal injuries.

We haven't lost hope that we can fix him and that he will walk once again. Please consider donating to Valerik—he deserves a life without pain and to learn that not all humans are bad.

*Update 8/7/24: *
For the past several weeks Valerik has been working so hard with his rehabilitation team, undergoing sessions 3-4 times a day. This rigorous routine includes exercises and evening massages, all aimed at helping him regain his strength. The focus has been on building up his lower back and pelvic muscles through exercises like squats, and acupuncture sessions which will help him develop the power needed to lift himself.

Despite these efforts, Valerik’s stepping pattern remains a significant challenge. This pattern refers to the coordinated movement and rhythm of his legs as he attempts to walk. Currently, his legs are not moving in a coordinated way that resembles walking, even with external stimulation. This is a critical part of his recovery, as regaining this stepping pattern is essential for him to walk again.

The prognosis remains cautious due to Valerik’s spinal cord injury but the fact that he is showing some reaction and engagement during his sessions is a positive sign, suggesting that progress, though slow, is possible.

Valerik deserves a chance at a beautiful life and the freedom to move independently as he pleases, despite the cruelty that has taken so much from him. Every bit of progress gives us hope that one day we will see him walk again.