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Medical Conditions & Diseases / Re: fractured growth plate in St Bernard puppy
« on: February 20, 2009, 03:57:43 am »
Please do see an orthopaedic specialist for confirmation of diagnosis before doing surgery. Then, if the need for surgery is confirmed..... Is he crate trained? A crate will be very helpful for post surgery enforced rest. Little sister can't bother/bug him and you wont have to be watching him every second. A stuffed kong or great big marrow bone will help him pass the time. A sling, made or purchased, can be used to support some of his weight when you take him outside. He will most likely do fine on three legs but the sling will help steady him and you can use it to slow him down when he tries to go too fast. He will try to push the boundaries. All you have to do is lift up on the sling when he starts picking up too much speed, just enough to take some weight off his front end. Say "slow" or "easy" and gently ease the weight back. You use the sling for assistance it's not really meant to 'carry' him, only keep him from losing his balance, control momentum or help him get to his feet. A ramp is also crucial if you have any steps. Make sure it is covered with a non slip material. I used a mat from my horse trailer. Hmmmm...This is starting to get rather long-winded. If you have any questions or need other tips, PM me and I will try to help. My Raemi had her first TPLO at age 3 and the second one a year later. Pretty much been there done that on most "what ifs". So sorry for the misery your young man is going through. Healing vibes coming his way.