After sudden paralysis, Amanda Mcsharry spent three months carrying her 10-year-old Jack Russell–Patterdale cross, Ruby, to help her walk again. Returning from Florida, Mcsharry noticed stiffness and reluctance to jump; soon Ruby could manage only a few steps before collapsing. Vets diagnosed polyradiculoneuritis, an inflammatory nerve disorder, and hospitalized her for monitoring. At times Ruby couldn’t lift her head and was incontinent. Once home, Mcsharry began round-the-clock rehab: supporting Ruby to “walk,” taking her outside, and running physio sessions morning, midday, and evening. Guided by a Facebook support group, she added hydrotherapy and introduced a wheelchair as strength returned. Dogs typically stand within six to nine weeks, Mcsharry said. Ruby progressed from standing to walking—and is now back to running and playing again.
