No pet parent ever wants to witness their furry best friend in pain. Sadly, aging often brings health struggles, and many dogs eventually face illnesses that affect their daily lives.
For Christiana Lovelace and her husband, Monte, from North Carolina, that painful reality arrived a couple of years ago.
Their beloved Silver Labrador, Bo, was only nine when he was diagnosed with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). The condition caused paralysis, robbing him of the ability to move freely.
Christiana and Monte poured all their love and effort into helping him, but over time their hope began to fade… until something extraordinary happened.
A Small Miracle
Bo had been struggling with this degenerative disease, which can range from mild discomfort to complete paralysis. Unfortunately, his case was severe.
A few years ago, he ruptured a disc in his back, and later, two more in his neck. The injuries left him completely paralyzed.
The couple tried everything they could—from rehabilitation to acupuncture—searching for a solution. Then, they discovered something that would change everything. Steroid treatments helped relieve his pain and reduce inflammation, and, little by little, Bo began regaining mobility.
Before long, he stunned his family by taking his very first steps again.
@christiana.lovelace I can't believe we've finally made it this far… after 3 ruptured disc's, 2 surgeries (4&3 if you count mine) and I honestly thought we nightfall said goodbye to him by now- but he's still trucking! We've also ruined our furniture and at least 3 rugs. #dog #dogsoftiktok #dog #pets #petsoftiktok #petstory #ivdd #ivddrecovery ♬ Eye of the Tiger – Survivor
For Christiana and Monte, watching Bo stand and move on his own was nothing short of magical.
“I can’t believe we finally made it this far…after three ruptured discs, 2 surgeries and I honestly thought we nightfall said goodbye to him by now – but he’s still trucking,” Christina shared on TikTok.
After months of sleepless nights and endless worry, their miracle pup was walking again—and the family couldn’t have been happier.
Learning To Walk Again
Within weeks of treatment, Bo could walk unassisted. For so long, his days had revolved around lying in bed, with cuddles from his parents being his greatest joy. Now, he could stand up, stretch out his legs, and even walk over to initiate snuggles himself.
Still, after years of immobility, Bo sometimes forgets he’s capable of walking.
@christiana.lovelace Replying to @lindseycagley Bo is walking again – He looks like a drunk toddler but he's walking. 👏 👏 #ivdd #dogs #dogsoftiktok #pets #petsoftiktok ♬ original sound – Christiana | Southern CEO
“My dog was paralyzed for so long that he still forgets he can walk. He’ll lay there and whine until I remind him he can walk,” Christiana explained.
Often, he wakes up from a nap, reluctant to move until he’s gently encouraged.
But Christiana and Monte always have a solution ready.
To make life easier for Bo, Monte built a custom cart where the Lab can sit comfortably. It doubles as a rehabilitation tool, helping him continue his progress. On days when Bo doesn’t feel like walking, his dad wheels him around, giving him the rides he adores.
Christiana has been documenting Bo’s recovery on TikTok, where his journey has captured thousands of hearts. Viewers from all over cheer him on, celebrating each milestone with the family.
Now in his golden years, Bo has not only regained his mobility but also gained a loving online community. Despite his condition, he radiates resilience and joy, proving that age and illness don’t define a dog’s spirit.
With Christiana and Monte by his side, it’s clear Bo has many more happy days and adventures waiting ahead.