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Duko and Ziko
During his treatment which included acupuncture and physical rehabilitation, Duko's handler, Sgt. Martin reported that Duko seemed more comfortable, was willing to work longer on tasks involving searches that made him go higher up. Duko also began to occasionally jump into the work vehicle without assistance.
Due to the progressive nature of spondylosis, Duko was eventually retired and went to live with one of his previous handlers that he knew from his time in Iraq.
Ziko also had acupuncture and physical rehabilitation. His handler, Lt. Campbell reported that as treatment continued Ziko had fewer and fewer instances of lameness. When the kennel was closed at the Fort, Ziko went to work for the Fulton County Sheriff's department. Both dogs passed a vigorous re-certification for their work while under Loving Touch's care.
From L to R: Sgt. Martin, Duko, Dr. Michelle, Elizabeth RVT, CCRP, Ziko and Lt. Campbell. |
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About Us
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Duko
was an 8 year old Belgian Malinois. He served in Iraq before going
to Fort McPherson and Fort Gillem. He was diagnosed in 2009 with a
condition called spondylosis with compression of the spinal cord at the
T12-L1 vertebra, degenerative joint disease (DJD) of the spine and hips.
He came to Loving Touch due to hind end weakness that was keeping him
from jumping up into the work vehicle, going into higher places for
searches and fatiguing easily. 
Ziko
was a 7 year old long-haired German Shepherd Dog. He also served
in Iraq before going to Fort McPherson and Fort Gillem. In January
2009, Ziko had spinal surgery (Laminectomy) involving the vertebra from
L6-S1. He came to Loving Touch with intermittent right hind
lameness, particularly following attack work and obstacle course
performance.
