Quote:
Originally Posted by Ladymom  |
These are great threads that every Yorkie owner should read! Thanks for posting LadyMom! Soooo sad.
Surgery is always the best option in my opinion and I think you'll find a consensus from others who have dealt with fractures theirs too. To me, it sounds like it's definitely likely needed in this situation. Why take any risk that could cause your dog his leg, life or greater possible complications down the road that can result in developmental abnormalites if not repaired correctly or if the repair fails. It's not worth it and will only bring greater pain down the road for both the dog and owner. I'm sure its not something you want to deal with too.
Radius and unla fractures can have serious complications if not repaired properly. Here's some information on this type of fracture you may want to read
Pet Place:Pet Care Information - Pet Information - Pet Health Information. Some vets will cast depending on the specific fracture type, location, and age of the animal, and mostly only in cases of very minimally displaced fractures, from some information I read. Not the case in your situation is my guess (I'm not a Vet though
), but it sounds serious and is in a major bone with 2 breaks. Even with just casting I've read some instances where things only got worse unfortunately. Most orthopedic specialist and surgeon specialist will insist on surgery in a lot of cases. Make sure you go to a specialist (orthopedic/surgeon) and if possible one that specializes in small dogs and has experience with small dogs. I was lucky, here in Boston we have have one of the best Vet hospitals in the Nation that has a great surgery/orthopedic unit. Looks like you have a referall. Make sure it's a good one.
Your little guy should be fine with surgery. I know it's such a concern with them being so little, but some good surgeons specialize in small dogs. A good vet will do a pre-surgery examination to make sure everything is okay and they may take some blood work too. That's a normal concern with him being so little. My brand new little girl, only having her for 3 days, broke her tibia and fibula almost 2 weeks ago (jumped out of my arms while briging her down steps outside) and underwent surgery at 11 1/2 weeks old and she's only 2 pounds 1 oz. She's doing wonderful so far! I now will make sure to carry her outside and down the steps only in her carrier and place it on the ground before taking her out. Or holding her correctly - I've read that you are suppose to hold them with their legs facing out with your arms under their 2 front legs and another hand under their bottom. I was holding her like one would hold burping a baby.
Also, Care Credit is a great option and just something to have and sign up for even if you don't have an emergency currently with your dog. I had the money for my girls surgery, but a lot of people may not or be college students like yourself and without Care Credit or Insurance (I believe) will have to pay up front the total costs - in most cases. It's unfortunate but the case in most situations. You may also want to think about setting up a "vet-fund" for your little guy and trying to put money aside each month incase of future accidents (hopefully that won't be the case
), but it's always a good idea especially if you're a college student or something.
Anyways I hope everything goes well for your little guy and you're able to get him the best possible treatment and everything turns out okay! Don't forget to keep everyone updated.
Here's 2 pictures of Shylo recovering.
http://www.yorkietalk.com/forums/pic...ictureid=85750 http://www.yorkietalk.com/forums/pic...ictureid=85749