Ruby’s Road to Stability: Purdue Veterinary Hospital Provides Collaborative Approach to Complex Care

This story continues a series of articles about animals and their owners who’ve found help and healing at the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital, as we share the tale of a dog named Ruby. This is just one of the heartwarming tributes provided by hospital clients to highlight the vital care and treatment their animal companions received from the hospital’s teams of clinicians, veterinary nurses, staff and students.

Mike and Maria have always shared their lives with animals. Their home includes two dogs, two cats, 19 chickens, and two bearded dragons—each part of a vibrant, beloved menagerie. When they adopted Ruby, a rescue from Alabama, they never anticipated the health challenges she would face or the journey they would take together.

Ruby’s early struggles during leash training initially were viewed as behavioral. But when she began having seizures, followed by troubling neurological episodes where her head would nod uncontrollably, it became clear something more serious was involved. Her primary veterinarian worked to manage her symptoms but ultimately referred her to the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital for a deeper evaluation.

At Purdue, the neurology team led by Dr. Stephanie Thomovsky conducted extensive testing, including MRI and spinal tap diagnostics. The results confirmed Ruby was experiencing idiopathic epilepsy with not one, but five different types of recurring seizures.

A comprehensive treatment plan was put in place, including five daily medications that significantly reduced the frequency and severity of her seizures. Today, Ruby takes ten pills each day to manage her condition and enjoys a far more stable quality of life.

Mike and Maria have adapted their daily routine around Ruby’s care. They remain in close contact with the Veterinary Hospital and their local veterinarian, working together to monitor Ruby’s progress and adjust her care as needed. This close coordination continues to make a difference.

Ruby’s story is a testament to persistence, partnership, and the impact of advanced veterinary care. Thanks to the ongoing collaboration between Purdue’s specialists and her local care team, Ruby is thriving and her family is grateful for every moment.

Writer(s): Mackenzie Martin | pvmnews@purdue.edu

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