Stella, the yellow lab from @dognamedstella, is back on her paws. The account posted a snowy reel about 18 hours ago that shows her first proper walk since an episode of old dog vestibular disease.
The video uses Ella Fitzgerald’s “Blue Skies” and opens with the caption, “Stella’s first walk since vestibular disease.” Her humans thank followers for advice and reassurance, noting she couldn’t stand without falling just six days earlier. The tone is grateful, the steps steady, and the trail sparkling.
Labrador walks in the snow for the first time since vestibular disease
The reel features Stella trotting along a Maine forest road while a second lab, Mabel, occasionally enters the frame. It was filmed in daylight on a groomed, snowy path. Stella keeps a measured pace, tail up, and checks back often. The post says recovery began six days after a rough spell. That timing tracks with many cases of Labrador vestibular disease improving within a week. Likes and comments are already surging past 18.8K and 1 K, respectively.
According to vcahospitals.com, vestibular disease affects the balance system in a dog’s inner ear and brain. Common signs include a head tilt, wobbling, and rapid eye movements called nystagmus. Dogs may refuse to stand or walk and can seem disoriented. Vets often diagnose it from history, exam, and basic tests. Many idiopathic cases improve quickly with rest and supportive care. Recovery can continue for 2 to 3 weeks, though a slight tilt may persist. Stella’s progress mirrors the typical recovery from vestibular disease in Labradors.
The soundtrack lifts the mood. “Blue Skies” hums while Stella pads along rutted snow, ears flicking in the cold. A close shot shows her focused face. Wide shots stretch into pines and blue winter light. The caption jokes that Mabel will wait atop “Mount Stellamanjaro” until Stella goes full speed again. The community vibe is warm, and the clip feels like a victory lap.
Fans chimed in with happy tears. One wrote, “She’s the Stellanator and she will not be stopped.” Another said, “Made my frickin day with this one!” A third added, “Woohoo so glad she’s ok!” Others celebrated the comeback: “OMG. I’m so happy for STELLA, the family and the Stella fans.”
