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My 6 yr old black lab just had ACL surgery on Thursday and I'm looking for advice. I bought a sling to lift his back end and cut the sleeve off of a long sleeve t-shirt and covered bandage. I blew up a queen air mattress and sleep on it with him. He had one laser treatment at get to promote healing. We sectioned off an area in the back yard for potty and keep him leashed outside. Am I missing anything? Love him like I birthed him!!!
Sounds about right. Just limit his exercise as much as possible. And keep in mind the other can go out too, especially due to carrying the weight while the other leg heals. My boy had 1 knee done and on the day he was given OK to be off leash and more freedom in the backyard, he blew the other.
There is life after ACL work ! Our 6 year old had surgery Told we would be back within a year for the other side It is now 7 years later No further work! We have limited speed of running to a trot Arthritis existed at 6 years and is quite a bit worse but she still anxiously goes walking . Uses opposite rear leg only to get up which is a problem on slippery floors . Have been giving Glucosamine for all those years =I am convinced it helps
Samson had TTA surgery July 2016. He was coming along perfectly until our vacation in November when he slipped on some hardwood. After a few months of rest (6 weeks no stairs, no walk, leashed breaks), he no longer has a limp. When he had x-rays of the TTA knee in November, just showed swelling so the vet things he just "tweaked" it. During x-rays, he checked his right knee and I was so pleased to hear "His right knee looks great." Just goes to show after healing they do well. We do weekly swim therapy. Started that in November. I plan to continue to help keep his hind strong.
I would strongly suggest downloading the book on this page https://www.topdoghealth.com/home-re...-rehab-guides/ I used it in conjunction with all we were doing for his TTA surgery. I took Samson to therapy for 12 weeks. The books goes over the same rehab that I did at the vet. Sounds like you have the basics covered. Just be ready.....your pup will get a burst of energy and catch you off guard! One morning I was slow to get Samson's leash on and I had the back door open, he bolted out! This was day 8 past TTA. I was horified. Didn't hurt him though. We also slept on an airmattress for about 13 weeks. If you have hardwood, be sure to cover all of it up. Keep us updated!! I sure hope it continues to go smooth for you.
We had a TTA 15 months ago and Polly is back to full activity. (Well she was until she slipped on ice and sprained her groin, but her surgery site is fine!)
I set up an ex-pen with a bed and blankets inside so I could keep my eye on her - I would be worried about him being outside - he may jump if he sees a squirrel and want to chase or jump. It's really important to follow your surgeon's advice - take it very slow and easy. The post-op recovery is really crucial. Good luck!
Mine had both knees done about a year apart. I did rehab exercises and acupuncture. The only thing I wish I had done was water therapy. At the time, I didn't know of any places that did that, but there are several near me now. I think that can really help with healing post surgery if you are able to do it.
The hydrotherapy is really good - Polly is getting that tomorrow after her massage, ultrasound, laser, and ice. Her physiotherapists give her more than what we get - plus treats! :)