New prosthetics helps dog stand tall

UPDATE: March 22, 2016, 3:41 p.m. EDT to include comments from Blossom's owner Rodney Purvis

Blossom -- a dog with prosthetics on her hind legs -- won't let her mobility difficulties prevent her from living an exciting life.

Blossom experienced a traumatic injury as a puppy. Shortly after birth, her mother chewed off her rear paws. Blossom's previous owner tended to the injuries without the help of a vet until the animal reached 10 months old. In May 2013, she was placed in the care of the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando -- formerly the SPCA of Central Florida.

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Mashable spoke with Blossom's owner, Rodney Purvis, via Facebook to learn more about her journey.

After Blossom spent about two weeks in the shelter, Purvis took her home. After some research he came across a local prosthetic organization -- Prosthetics and Orthotics Associates -- who offered to create custom prosthetic feet for Blossom. 

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

In addition to Blossom's brand new feet, Rocky's Retreat also assisted in her therapy by taking her swimming twice a week to build up muscle.

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Now, six months later, Blossom has been on quite an inspirational road to recovery and is strolling around and playing fetch like an expert.

"She has had many fittings and trials and errors to get her prosthetics just right," her owner writes on Blossom's Facebook page. "Being that the rear legs are different lengths it has taken her a while to adjust, but she is adjusting more every day."

"My house is lined with foam floor squares so that when Blossom isn't wearing her prosthetics she can get around the house," Purvis said.

Purvis described Blossom as very energetic and fearless. "She truly inspires me every time I take her out," he said.

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