Benji’s Journey: A Story of Innovative Care and Recovery

As veterinary professionals, we often encounter cases that challenge our skills and push us to think outside the box. Benji, a 2-year-old husky, was one such case that captured the hearts of our team and inspired us to work together to provide the best possible care.

In February 2024, Benji was presented to us with a mobility issue, unable to stand up in his hind end. After a thorough examination, we diagnosed Benji with lateral patellar luxation and bone deformities in both hind legs. This complex condition required a multidisciplinary approach to address the underlying issues and provide Benji with a comfortable and functional quality of life.

Thanks to the incredible support of Husky Haven, a rescue organization dedicated to helping Siberian Huskies and husky mixes in need, Benji received the best possible care. Husky Haven not only provided Benji with a loving foster home, but also went above and beyond to ensure his recovery. They fundraised to cover his medical expenses, sent him back for his weekly physical therapy appointments, and had an amazing foster mom who worked with him every day to help him recover from his surgeries.

With the guidance of Dr. Dan Lewis, our retired faculty member, and the support of our team, we created a customized treatment plan for Benji. Over the next 5 months, we worked to create custom 3D printed guides and perform two surgeries to straighten his bones and realign his patellas. Our Integrative Medicine Service played a crucial role in Benji’s rehabilitation, helping him learn to use his new legs and adapt to his changing body.

With the support of Husky Haven, his dedicated foster family, and our team, Benji was able to overcome his mobility issues and regain his quality of life.

We’re grateful to Husky Haven for their unwavering support and commitment to Benji’s care. And we’re proud to say that Benji is now living his best life, thanks to the love and care of his forever family.

When Benji first came to the hospital.
After surgery wearing the “cone of shame”
Benji enjoying his break from his cone.
Here’s Benji, happily walking after his recovery.

University of Florida

IFAS

As part of both the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences and UF Health, Veterinary Medicine is dedicated to advancing animal, human and environmental health through teaching, research, extension and patient care.

IFAS

UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA

Animal Hospitals

Need animal care? Visit the UF Small Animal and Large Animal Hospitals. From dogs, cats, birds and exotics to horses, cattle, llamas, pigs and many other large farm or food animals, our experienced veterinary staff is ready to assist.

Animal Airwaves

Syndicated Podcast

Animal Airwaves

Animal Airwaves is a daily radio series that features one-minute segments relating to animal health, ranging from insights into animal behavior to veterinary patient care breakthroughs and trends.

Animal Airwaves