Pupdate on baby Arya and all the progress that she has made.

She is about to turn 14 months old next week she is no longer the skinny, shy little puppy anymore. We believe she is full grown now and maybe will fill out a little more but won't get any taller.  She weighs 53 pounds and has a strong body.  She is able to run and jump with ease.  Her hip issues have worked themselves out and we do not need to do any surgery for her at this time.

We went to the University of Florida and saw an orthopedic surgeon there.  He gave Arya a full and extensive exam under anesthesia and tried to manipulate her hips to replicate what he would do for full hip replacement surgery.  He determined that she was not a good candidate for the surgery and would most likely not have a successful outcome.  Since she has quality of life, plays, runs and jumps with ease, he said that she is not in pain and can continue as is for as long as she can do everything that she wants to do. Perhaps when she gets old, there might be a chance that they will do a less invasive surgery to make sure her bones are not rubbing when she runs. Right now there is good movement of her joints and hips.

We are truly grateful for Arya.  She is training to be Cara's service dog and already has mastered many tasks.  She loves to work and is very well behaved in the various public places that Cara takes her to.  They had a bond from the very beginning and she is such a special dog.

We love her very much and are so happy she is part of our family.  I wish you well and continued success with the important work that you do.  You are saving so many lives and doing such good in this world.

From all of us, we wish you all the very best.

Rhonda Virgin and Family