Lena - A True Story of Survival

Lena came into our hearts and minds one day in early October, 2010. Found severely injured on the side of the road on that rainy day, her chance of survival was minimal, that is, until Phyllis Savenkoff and Robert Holliday could not deny that they saw movement on the side of the road and stopped to check it out. The two of them rushed Lena to Ohlandt Veterinary Clinic on James Island. She was only capable of sitting, with her back legs lifeless and a sharp bend in her back. Her prognosis was not very good, but she survived the weekend and her care was eventually entrusted to Carol Linville, Founder and President of Pet Helpers Adoption Center and Spay/Neuter Clinic.

Dr. Henri Bianucci of Veterinary Specialty Care LLC examined Lena. An x-ray showed that her spine was fractured and displaced. At first, she was unresponsive to pressure put on her lower extremities. However, after one more attempt to get a response, she sat up! Surgery to correct her spine was now a viable option! That evening, Dr. Bianucci and his staff surgically stabilized her spine. Post surgery, they lovingly cared for the brave girl for many more weeks. She was walking with assistance within days! All who came into contact with her were amazed by her fighting spirit. That’s the incredible nature of animals: forgiving, and resilient.

Both Carol Linville and Kristin Kifer, Operations Manager at Pet Helpers, fostered Lena in the months following her surgery. She was so well behaved and never had an accident in the house! She was the star guest at the 6th Annual Pet Helpers Fur Ball in November and developed quite a following of admirers via the Pet Helpers Facebook page. For weeks she stayed in Kristin Kifer’s office during the day and welcomed all visitors to Pet Helpers. She was walking without assistance and on a leash in no time! Kristin Kifer remarks that, “She was a lot of fun to watch as she recovered using her legs, running around.” Often her poor little howl would resonate throughout the shelter as she sought attention. She was eager to play!

In mid-December, 105.5 The Bridge joined Pet Helpers in a 36 hour overnight adoptathon. The event was a resounding success: 16 dogs and cats found their FURever homes! Most of the DJs from 105.5 resisted the urge to adopt, but not Kate MacNeil. She spent two days working the event and playing with Lena. She couldn’t resist! A meet-and-greet with Kate’s husband and other dog, Maggie, went very well, and the adoption was finalized. According to Kate, Lena couldn’t be happier! Kate says that, “When we first brought her here, we noticed that her walk was somewhat unsteady and she moved similar to a camel - moving her right legs, and then her left. But within a few days, that behavior stopped and she has adopted a more normal gait, on much sturdier legs. In just two weeks, she's gone from barely being able to walk up the stairs to our apartment, to outracing our other dog, Maggie.”

Carol Linville shares everyone’s love of Lena. “Lena's story is what gives me the strength to keep working every day for the many other Lena's out there that need our help.” It is apparent that Lena impresses anyone with whom she comes into contact. She’s a miracle dog.