The Mia Foundation
Master Valentino
The little Yorkshire Terrier with Atlantoaxial Instability
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Valentino has a severe form of Atlantoaxial Luxation along with several other defects.
Atlantoaxial luxation occurs when there is instability between the first and second cervical vertebrae (bones of the neck.)
In Valentino’s case, his 1st vertebrae is inside of his skull and the 2nd vertebrae is completely twisted/deformed and is crushing his spinal cord. Surgery can be performed in most cases however, because Val’s vertebra is INSIDE of his skull and he cannot undergo anesthesia, he is not a candidate for a surgical repair.
Valentino also has a skull deformity. His skull has several holes and missing pieces making him very vulnerable to brain trauma.
Cornell’s recommendation was to put Valentino to sleep. When I told them that I would just bring Valentino home and give him the best possible life while he was still a happy puppy, they told me to cast his neck and not allow ANY activity whatsoever because one wrong move could internally decapitate him!
I refuse to plop Val in the middle of the floor to watch life pass him by. I do protect him from rough puppy play and harmful situations but I want Val to be as normal a puppy as he can for as long as he can.
When and if Val shows any signs of pain or if his quality of life changes we will make a loving decision at that time. But for now, he is happy and pain free and just being a puppy!!
Each day that I am blessed to have Valentino Maximus in it is a complete joy and blessing!!! He is a true miracle. He is a bossy little boy and he gets his needs heard. Val can’t stand unassisted but he tells me when he needs help standing to go potty or if he is thirsty or hungry. He has an uncanny way of communicating.
Valentino was born and brought into my life and all of your lives for a reason. Just as Mia, Max, Moana and all of the others were.
We may never know the reason for his existence. But that’s okay with me.
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