Several days ago, I wrote something that I deleted shortly after writing. It was written out of total total fear and helplessness and was intended as a small distraction from what was happening. For those of you who did see the post and sent me some very kind words, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you from the bottom of my heart.
The story was this...last week I came home from work and was greeted by Molly in the usual way, but no sign of Tess. Did I leave her outside on accident that morning? Nope. I found her curled up in the bedroom corner shaking like a leaf and unable to walk. When she tried, it was a struggle and her legs would soon collapse beneath her. I'll fast forward through the part where I became totally hysterical thinking about the vet visit, more specifically, the car ride home. Trust me, it wasn't pretty.
I collected myself and carried her into the vet's office prepared for the worst. I'm so happy to say that the worst did not come. Apparently, Tess is a wuss and her paralysis was literally a result of being scared stiff. The physical examination ruled out all of my worst fears and further tests determined that she had a hyper-extended joint in her front paw.
Tonight, she still has a significant hitch in her giddy-up, but she is able to take care of herself again with the help of the meds. It is quite a struggle to restrict her movement, but the kennel helps and she is only allowed outside on a leash for the time being.
Good news indeed. Who knew she was such a drama queen?
Updated to add this one. Both of them are pitiful. Tess may have a valid excuse, but Molly is just p.o.'d that she isn't getting all of the attention.
It's been about a month since Tess has engaged in such nonsense. All throwable objects have been hidden out of site to avoid any temptation. This morning, I broke them out...and broke her back in. It was as if there had been no pause in the action. She is still faster than the camera. The blurriness does a good job of masking her other "issues" at least! 
