Meet Matilda! Her journey began July of 2023 when she was brought into an animal shelter in Campbell County Virginia after being found along with 2 other littermates. At only 5 weeks old and in blistering July heat, all 3 puppies had only moments to spare. Sadly, one of them did not make it. Once critical conditions were addressed, it was quickly realized Matilda showed concerns about her front legs. An appointment was scheduled for her at Peaksview Animal Hospital with their Rehab team in Lynchburg Virginia. That was the moment I first laid eyes on her and it was love at first sight. As a member of the rehab team, I decided Matilda’s best chance at success was to take her on as a foster to see that she recieved full access to the treatments she may need. As she began to grow, it became evident that her condition was more severe than originally believed, so we drove up to Gaithersburg Maryland to meet with Dr. Matthew W. Brunke of Veterinary Referral Associates. He diagnosed Matilda with a peripheral nerve disorder that would never allow her the use of her front legs. The best treatment for her would be amputation of both forelimbs and fit her for a wheelchair when she’s done growing. Here we are, one year later, she has been adopted by myself and is truly one of the most spirited and happy dogs I’ve had the pleasure of loving. Her amputations were done November and December of 2023, her growth plates have closed and she is ready for her wheels!!! On July 11th we travel to Shelburne Massachusetts to Eddie’s Wheels to begin her custom fitting process to ensure she has a wheelchair built just right for her. I have covered thousands of dollars in her medical and supportive care so far and her wheelchair is the final piece. Please consider helping us raise funds for her new chair and show Matilda how awesome life can be when you get to zoom!

You can follow her journey on instagram @matilda_the_marvelous

Her treatment and doctors can be contacted for authenticity at:

Peaksview Animal Hospital

802 Wigginton Rd

Lynchburg, Va 24502

434-385-1300