Anyone who shares life with a dog knows how quickly protective instincts take over when something feels wrong. The urge to help, to soothe, to fix whatever is hurting them becomes almost automatic, especially when there are no clear answers.
Even when uncertainty makes everything feel heavy and confusing, most owners hold tight and keep going for the animals who depend on them.
This is a story about that kind of loyalty, the kind that refuses to fade even when worry grows.
After returning home from a month in Florida, a woman noticed immediately that her beloved dog seemed different. The truth she was about to discover would weigh deeply on her heart.
A Sudden Decline
When Amanda McSharry arrived home, she noticed that Ruby’s movements had become unusually stiff. The change worried her.
Since Amanda had just come back from her trip, she wondered whether Ruby might have injured herself while staying with someone else.
Unsure of the cause, she took Ruby to the vet. The doctor prescribed medication and advised Amanda to keep a close eye on her. Sadly, Ruby’s condition only worsened.
She grew weaker each day, and her symptoms made Amanda fear that the issue was neurological, especially since Ruby did not appear to be in physical pain.
Amanda sought further help. A second veterinarian referred Ruby to a larger animal hospital where specialists could perform more extensive testing.
The possibility of losing her soul dog filled Amanda with dread.
At the hospital, Ruby underwent X-rays, blood work, and an ultrasound. The goal was to rule out cancer, toxoplasmosis, and other serious conditions.
A Diagnosis That Changed Everything
Ruby continued to decline until she could no longer lift her head or eat normally.
After a full evaluation, the veterinarians determined that she had polyradiculoneuritis. This rare disorder occurs when the immune system attacks the nerves that exit the spinal cord.
Although the condition can develop for various reasons, there are treatments that offer hope. Amanda was ready to pursue whatever options were available.
Ruby was hospitalized initially, and Amanda spent her days worrying but trusting the professionals caring for her dog.
Before long, Ruby began physical therapy. For the next three months, Amanda carried her everywhere.
Hope Through Healing
Amanda built her daily routine around Ruby’s rehabilitation. She took her to physiotherapy sessions before work, during lunch, and again in the evening.
Ruby also started hydrotherapy. Progress was slow, yet steady. Bit by bit, Ruby began regaining strength.
Then came the moment Amanda had been praying for.
Ruby took her first steps on her own. Amanda recorded the milestone, crying as she watched her brave companion fight her way back from a frightening diagnosis.
Ruby’s recovery shows the incredible resilience of animals and the power of loyalty and love. Today, she is walking again, enjoying her days, and inspiring everyone who has followed her journey.
So proud of my little soul dog 🫶🏻
