Colorado's Favorite Rafting Wolf-Dog, Baxter,  Injured in a Fall  

Monday April 16th, 2007

While out enjoying a hike in Temple Canyon, southwest of Canon City,  Baxter fell ~30ft from a small cliff abutment. He sustained serious injuries to his right hind leg. Rescue was a difficult and painful process as he had to be carried 2 miles up a long and un-maintained trail with over 1000 feet of elevation gain. Emergency care was administered at Fourmile veterinary clinic in Canon City. He was then immediately taken to the Colorado Canine Orthopedics hospital in Colorado Springs where he could be examined by an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Todd Riecks. Upon examination it was determined that he had multiple fractures to his femur and patella (knee) with extensive damage to the surrounding connective tissue. The options were to perform an amputation, or proceed with a costly surgery to save his leg. Amputation was not in his best interest as he is a very active and adventurous animal, as well as a beloved friend and travel companion. We did not have the heart to compromise his quality of life. His surgery was understandably complicated and difficult, yet successful thanks to the excellent work performed by the entire staff at Canine Orthopedics. He has a long road to recovery with good potential to fully heal and pursue his life with vigor once again. Baxter is loved by many and frequently requested by our guests to join us on rafting trips.  He should fully recover with proper treatment, and hopefully inspire us all with his fun loving and adventurous spirit once again. Our rafting business supports a rather modest lifestyle, albeit a good active healthy one. Treatment for Baxter was very costly and any donations to aid in buffering the cost of his surgery and recovery is greatly appreciated. You can donate to Baxter's recovery fund by credit card or paypal via secure online methods by following the link below. Or if you prefer, donations may be mailed to our business address attn: Baxter Recovery Fund. We also encourage you to send Baxter "get well" cards which will be displayed in our store to show your love and support for our fuzzy friend. On behalf of Baxter, we'd like to thank all of you for your help and support in aiding him through this long and difficult process.