Chisme update: 3/4/26 Midday
Chisme’s care team has reached a bit of an impasse on encouraging her to use her leg on her own while walking. They have cut out some time today for her to be seen by the rehab specialist at UGA in hopes of brainstorming new ideas to help her move better.
In theory, the X-Fix pins should allow her the mechanics to move the leg and bear weight.
Unfortunately no one has been able to figure out why she simply will not put it down outside of her kennel run.
Her care team believes it’ll perk her up a bit to come home tomorrow (Thursday) and maybe with a bit of luck, she’ll begin using the leg once home and in familiar territory. She will need to be seen weekly for the next 5 weeks for bandage changes and status updates between UGA and her primary care veterinarian.
Though it isn’t “bad” news, it isn’t the most ideal level of progress we’d all hoped for.
Given the ongoing care requirements, we are still looking for a few folks willing to house sit during the day with her a few days a week to make sure she is comfortable, able to go potty and doesn’t get her cone off inside her kennel.
Thank you to everyone that has reached out, prayed, or contributed to our fundraisers!
They will continue going as we are still looking at $15000* or so for everything.
**Any funds over the cost of her care will be donated to our local animal shelter to help care for those souls in need!**
Below are the current Fundraising efforts:
Raffles:
Paypal/Venmo: KaylaCaudle92
Cashapp: $KGault20
Champ Dog Gear Collar:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1AvtSKXZFu/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Large Ruffland:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BvWCYeM3g/?mibextid=wwXIfr
XL Ruffland:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17u9yT6Si4/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Can Curtains (2):
https://www.facebook.com/share/18JbX85KWG/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Biothane Collar/Toy combo:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14XNLX6mgz5/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Gear for Sale:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17C1Eere1B/?mibextid=wwXIfr
GoFundMe:
https://gofund.me/7e69f02d1
If anyone would like to donate directly to her surgical expenses they may do so by calling UGA Veterinary Hospital at 706*542*1984 and applying the donation to “Chisme/Kayla Gault” Acct # 337177
Having followed Chisme’s recovery journey closely, I can share insights into the challenges pets face when adapting to mobility aids like X-Fix pins. It’s common for animals to hesitate using a limb even when medically supported due to discomfort, fear, or environmental unfamiliarity. Familiar surroundings can play a huge role in encouraging movement, which aligns with the care team's hope that Chisme might start using her leg once back home. From personal experience with similar recovery cases, patience combined with gentle encouragement is key — offering positive reinforcement when the pet attempts to bear weight can gradually build confidence. Frequent interaction and monitoring help detect subtle signs of improvement or issues needing attention. Weekly vet visits for bandage changes and progress updates are essential to adjusting care plans dynamically. Caregiver support, like house sitting during recovery, not only ensures the pet’s physical needs are met but also provides mental comfort, reducing stress that can inhibit healing. If you are considering helping, even a few hours a week can make a big difference for Chisme. Fundraising efforts like raffles and direct donations are critical for covering high-cost veterinary procedures. Beyond the immediate medical expenses, thoughtful contributions support continued rehabilitation and quality of life improvements. It’s inspiring to see the community rallying to assist Chisme and pledging excess funds to local shelters, reinforcing a cycle of care for animals in need. For anyone navigating similar recovery challenges with their pets, combining professional rehab strategies with a nurturing environment and community support creates the best path toward healing and renewed mobility. Keep a close eye on their response to therapy, and stay flexible in approaches to encourage gradual progress — sometimes small steps are the best victories.
