I just got the all clear from the Dr. after one of mine had both knees done, as well as fixing a blown cruciate ligament. Yesterday was the 9 week check-up. Mine was supposed to have both casts on for 2 weeks but ended up figuring out how to get them wet and taken off, along with the getting the staples taken out a week early. For the first five weeks, it was pretty much the ex-pen, crate or stroller. After that, just kept an eye out for too much activity. Per the Dr.'s orders, I started with the walking/exercise program and went from there. Luckily, for the first month, I didn't have to take any jobs -- except for a couple that I got to take my baby with me. I spent many, many hours sitting on the couch, holding and comforting my baby.
I would definitely suggest that anyone having to get this done, please see a Board Authorized Orthopedic surgeon. Mine was absolutely wonderful. Yep, it'll most likely cost more then your regular vet, and I'm not saying that some regular vets would be able to do the basic surgery. I don't know about rods being put in -- unless you're referring to the pins. (That's what mine has) The cruciate ligament repair made the left knee more involved (and added to the cost).
I may be in the poorhouse now -- but I would do it again if it were needed.
The part that upsets me, is that if the parents of my dog had not been bred, this poor dog would have not have had to go through this. Then again, I probably wouldn't have "this" baby that I love more than I can even say. Luxating Patella IS a heriditary problem that was passed on to my dog! |