Life with a wheelchair-bound basset hound

Maybe you've seen Charlie around town with me or my wife. He's the overly friendly basset hound in a blue wheelchair. He wants to say hi to everyone.

Charlie has had his wheelchair for nearly four years now. The photo below was taken the day before he lost use of his back legs completely. Finding this image brings up a lot of emotions. I both love to look at it and hate it.

The morning after, he crawled into our bedroom in pain. After a hectic Sunday spent driving to an emergency veterinarian and a pet hospital far away, we found out he had a genetic disease called Intervertebral Disk Disease or IVDD.

The ER veterinarian gave us options to ponder as we made the two-hour drive to the hospital with Charlie filled with pain killers - an expensive surgery that may not work, drugs and a lot of therapy, or put him down. I remember crying in the backseat with him as my wife drove.

We knew he could still lead a good life. We would fight for him. My wife and I promised we'd never add up the vet bills.

Through exercises and therapy sessions, Charlie has regained some use of his back legs. He can even stand and walk a little on his back legs. Although, he's a bit unsteady.

Now, Charlie can get around the house OK without his wheelchair. He just looks like he's had one too many beers (we've all been there). Sometimes he does yoga.

But, for longer walks, he loves getting in his wheelchair.

He gets around Indy.

And he meets a lot of interesting people.

Charlie loves stopping to say hi to the firefighters in Fountain Square.

If you see us walking, say hi.

Maybe you'll help wear him out for the day.

If your dog is ever diagnosed with IVDD, do not give up hope. Get a hold of IndyStar Social Media Platforms Editor @JoeTamborello on Twitter or Instagram (a lot of Charlie pics). Email him at joe.tamborello@indystar.com or call him at 317-444-6002. Your dog can live a happy life. Charlie is proof.