I was fostering a three year old Cocker Spaniel from Hearts United for Animals, no kill sanctuary.
Her name was Abbey. She was rescued from a puppy mill and had a shattered femoral head. After having
surgery and a pin placed in her hip, Abbey was not using her leg. If she didn't use it in three months
HUA was instructed to tie up her good back leg to force her to use her repaired leg. I feared she may
lose valuable rehabilitation time and end up never using her leg. HUA agreed to let me take Abbey to a
special water program at Kenl Inn.

I signed her up for twice a week sessions with Suzanne Border, a certified Canine Massage Therapist at Kenl Inn.
Suzanne felt their Assisted Swimming program would also strengthen her leg and help her regain confidence to use
it again. Suzanne designed a swim program especially for Abbey, based on her injury and body type, personality
and her fear of new situations. She swam Abbey for short periods with rest time in between. Abbey began using
her leg after two sessions! Suzanne was intent on a full recovery for Abbey. She was very "in-tune" to Abbey's
endurance and limits. She praised Abbey and gave her lots of encouragement and affection. I could tell Suzanne
loved dogs and her job! She helped me understand the Assisted Swim program and how each dog and their physical
challenges called for an individual evaluation and rehabilitation plan.

I was very impressed with Suzanne's professionalism, her love for helping dogs and her determination to do so.
Abbey swam with Suzanne for twelve weeks. Her swim program was successful. Abbey runs around chasing squirrels
like a normal dog and can go up and down stairs.

My husband & I adopted Abbey!! Thanks to Suzanne, Abbey leads a normal life. I am grateful to meet Suzanne
and be able to watch her restore Abbey's mobility and confidence. I would recommend that any dog with an injury
or recovering from surgery swim with Suzanne Border.

Pam Hoffman
Lincoln, Nebraska