Our series of articles about animals and their owners who’ve found help and healing at the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital continues as we share the story of Petula, the Papillon. This is another of the heartwarming tributes provided by hospital clients to highlight the vital care and treatment their animal companions receive from the hospital’s teams of clinicians, veterinary nurses, staff and students.
Ann Bruno will never forget the moment her Papillon puppy, Petula, jumped out of the bath and landed wrong. In an instant, her young agility partner could not put weight on her leg. Ann’s heart sank. Petula was more than a beloved companion. She was already in training for agility competitions, and Ann was determined to do everything she could to get her back on track.
After rushing to urgent care and then a local clinic, Ann was still searching for a place that could help. Petula was only five pounds at the time, and fixing a broken bone in a dog that small can be challenging due to both the need for special equipment and the expertise of a surgeon familiar with these patients. With weekend hours limiting her options, she suddenly remembered the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital. Without hesitation, she packed up Petula and drove two hours from Westfield to West Lafayette, holding onto hope.
At Purdue, the Veterinary Hospital’s Emergency and Critical Care team saw Petula quickly. She then was evaluated by Orthopedics, where Ann asked the team to do whatever it would take to help her recover. The team recommended surgery early the following week. While it was difficult to leave Petula behind, Ann agreed that Petula should stay at the hospital where she would be safe, comfortable, and closely monitored.
Operating on a five pound puppy required a high level of skill. From careful handling to precise technique, the team provided Petula the expertise needed to meet the moment.
Over the next few days, Ann received frequent phone updates that helped ease the stress of being apart. Petula had her surgery and was able to use her leg again shortly after. When Ann returned the following Tuesday night, she was met with relief. Petula was healing well and ready to come home.
With rest, care, and time, Petula made a full recovery and is back to the active life she loves. While she is still a bit cautious around strangers, both her energy and her confidence in the agility ring have returned.
Ann, a proud Purdue alumna, enjoys life with her husband and Petula and their other Papillon, Pixel. As someone deeply connected to the agility world, Ann fondly remembers when Pixel qualified for the Westminster Dog Show, a once in a lifetime memory she keeps close.
Ann’s experience at the Purdue Veterinary Hospital left a lasting impression. During the Purdue Day of Giving, Ann gave back in honor of the team that helped Petula heal. And whenever she gets the chance, she speaks highly of the care and compassion that turned a frightening moment into a hopeful one and gave her young competitor the chance to chase her dreams once again.