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Oh No!!!!!!!

Lukka'sma
January 10th, 2008, 01:57 PM
Lukka was just chasing a squirrel to the back of the yard and when she reached the fence she jumped up and came down hard on her back leg, fell to the ground in a crying heap and laid there yelping for about five minutes straight. She won't put any weight on her back leg, we are off to the vet at 2:50 this afternoon to see what the matter is.

Love4himies
January 10th, 2008, 01:58 PM
Oh no, hope she didn't do any serious damage. Sending her :goodvibes:.

SARAH
January 10th, 2008, 02:00 PM
Oh poor poor Lukka !!! :goodvibes: from me too! And of course, keep us posted.

hazelrunpack
January 10th, 2008, 02:08 PM
:yell: Just what you and Lukka needed! Never a dull moment when you have dogs, I guess. :grouphug: :frustrated: :grouphug:

:fingerscr that she just sprained it and it'll fix itself in a few days!

Lukka, you gotta stop worrying your mama so! :dog:

danaekitty
January 10th, 2008, 02:13 PM
I'm so sorry! My kitty fell from a tree last fall and bumped her chin so hard it bled...a sickening feeling to see an injury like that. Hope L is okay!!!

breeze
January 10th, 2008, 02:16 PM
:fingerscr hope it is nothing serious!!

maybe she just stuned it. and that takes a while before she will walk on it..:goodvibes::fingerscr

14+kitties
January 10th, 2008, 03:19 PM
Poor Lukka! Just when you get one thing working somewhat! What is it with doggies and their propensity for injuring themselves? :confused:
:fingerscr it isn't too serious.

Boky
January 10th, 2008, 03:32 PM
Oh no ... hopefully everything goes well with your pet .. Let us know how it went

JanM
January 10th, 2008, 03:53 PM
:pray: for Lukka being okay!

Lukka'sma
January 10th, 2008, 04:17 PM
Well this is our diagnosis
Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture......NOT what I wanted to hear. Complete house rest for a week, only out to pee and only on a leash for that. The Prednisone she was already on for the Masticatory Myositis has been increased again and she has Codeine to accompany that for a few day's. Once the meds are finished we will see if surgery is in order. This poor dog just has one thing after another.:sad: He did say that arthritis is a given now with this rupture:shrug:

hazelrunpack
January 10th, 2008, 04:21 PM
:grouphug: Oh, cr@p! :frustrated:

:fingerscr that she doesn't need surgery!

How much longer will she be on the meds now?

Feel better, Lukka! :dog:

breeze
January 10th, 2008, 04:21 PM
I'm so sorry to hear that lukka'smom..

:grouphug::grouphug::grouphug:

why is it that with pups or young doggies it's 2 steps forwad and 5 steps back!!!:frustrated:

Boky
January 10th, 2008, 04:21 PM
Well this is our diagnosis
Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture......NOT what I wanted to hear. Complete house rest for a week, only out to pee and only on a leash for that. The Prednisone she was already on for the Masticatory Myositis has been increased again and she has Codeine to accompany that for a few day's. Once the meds are finished we will see if surgery is in order. This poor dog just has one thing after another.:sad: He did say that arthritis is a given now with this rupture:shrug:

Awww .. poor Lukka .. hopefully everything turns out ok after ..

chico2
January 10th, 2008, 04:23 PM
Oh no,Lukkas mom that's all you and Lukka need,not a good start to 2008:sad:
I hope:pray:she does not need surgery:pray:
Lukka is just a young dog,isn't she??
:pray:for beautiful Lukka:pray:

Lukka'sma
January 10th, 2008, 04:30 PM
Oh no,Lukkas mom that's all you and Lukka need,not a good start to 2008:sad:
I hope:pray:she does not need surgery:pray:
Lukka is just a young dog,isn't she??
:pray:for beautiful Lukka:pray:

Thanks everyone, yes Chico she is having her second birthday on the 20 Jan/ 08

chico2
January 10th, 2008, 04:33 PM
That's one thing in her favour,right?
Maybe it will heal by itself,without surgery:pray:

phoozles
January 10th, 2008, 04:51 PM
Sending you some :goodvibes: that Lukka can get through this without surgery :fingerscr

Lukka'sma
January 10th, 2008, 05:58 PM
:grouphug: Oh, cr@p! :frustrated:

:fingerscr that she doesn't need surgery!

How much longer will she be on the meds now?

Feel better, Lukka! :dog:

Another week for these meds hazel, after that if she isn't better (and the vet doesn't hold out much hope for that) we do the surgery.

gomez
January 10th, 2008, 06:05 PM
:sick: oh Lukka...

Here's hoping she's feeling better soon and al heals well by itself...

I had a cruciate ligament injury from skiing in my left knee - at first they thought it was torn or ripped, but after a week , when the swelling went down and they could do a proper inspection, it turned out just to be a little frayed and was easily repaired...

Gomez sends licks!

SARAH
January 10th, 2008, 06:20 PM
Poor, beautiful Lukka :sad: we're sending all the :goodvibes: we can from Sheba, Dani, Misti and Spoutnik and a great big :grouphug: to you from Lewis and me.

krdahmer
January 10th, 2008, 06:23 PM
Just went through this with Fagan last year, his healed on its own with cage rest for 2 weeks. So :goodvibes: you and Lukka have some luck too!!!:grouphug:

14+kitties
January 10th, 2008, 07:11 PM
:grouphug::grouphug::grouphug: for you and Lukka. Poor sweetie. I hope she heals well and does not need surgery. She has been going through an awful lot lately. :goodvibes:

rainbow
January 10th, 2008, 07:24 PM
Well this is our diagnosis
Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture......NOT what I wanted to hear. Complete house rest for a week, only out to pee and only on a leash for that. The Prednisone she was already on for the Masticatory Myositis has been increased again and she has Codeine to accompany that for a few day's. Once the meds are finished we will see if surgery is in order. This poor dog just has one thing after another.:sad: He did say that arthritis is a given now with this rupture:shrug:

I'm so sorry to hear about Lukka. :sad: :grouphug:

My lab (Chase) had TPLO surgery (recommended for large active dogs) for a CCL rupture in his left leg in March/07 and then his right leg in July/07.

Do you have Lukka on glucosamine/chondroitin? Chase doesn't have arthritis yet and we've had him on that. :shrug: We are also going to get him the cartrophen shots once hubby gets back to work.

Sending lots of good wishes for you and Lukka. :fingerscr :fingerscr :goodvibes: :goodvibes: :goodvibes:

TeriM
January 10th, 2008, 07:32 PM
Oh no :sad:! It has definately been a tough few months for you guys. I hope Lukka feels better :fingerscr.

Rottielover
January 10th, 2008, 08:46 PM
Wow, I am so sorry to hear about her spout of bad luck. Harley was like that, one vet visit after another first 2 years of his life. If it was not sickness it was accidents..
Hope she does not need surgery.:fingerscr

Frenchy
January 10th, 2008, 08:50 PM
Oh no ! :sad: poor Lukka (and poor you too) I hope she can rest so much she won't need surgery :fingerscr :goodvibes:

growler~GateKeeper
January 11th, 2008, 02:29 AM
:goodvibes: :fingerscr for Lukka & :grouphug: for both of you

I also recommend glucosamine - start now. Ask your vet re the Cartrophen (http://www.arthritis.au.com/DMOAD.2006.FINAL.pdf) my :rip: :dog: Cally did really really well on this for his arthritis, it helps to rebuild the cartilage.

happycats
January 11th, 2008, 07:35 AM
Oh poor lukka:cry: I am so sorry, I hope:pray::fingerscr that she heals properly and doesn't require surgery!!:goodvibes:

Love4himies
January 11th, 2008, 08:24 AM
Poor Lukka, :fingerscr that she won't need surgery. No more chasing squirrels, Lukka!

hazelrunpack
January 11th, 2008, 08:36 AM
Another week for these meds hazel, after that if she isn't better (and the vet doesn't hold out much hope for that) we do the surgery.

It just added one week to the pred? That's not too bad :thumbs up

Priscilla healed a partially torn ACL at the age of 11. (Although she's probably not as active as Lukka, she tore it in the first place because 11-week-old Evan was putting her in touch with her inner puppy...) But miracles do happen so don't give up hope, LM! :grouphug:

:grouphug:s for the Lovely Lukka, too! And :goodvibes:, of course!

jessi76
January 11th, 2008, 08:50 AM
oh dear... poor lukka! we're going to have to wrap that big beautiful pooch in bubble wrap!

as hazel said, miracles DO happen, and dogs are incredibly resilient! Sending our good vibes and hugs your way for a speedy recovery!

breeze
January 11th, 2008, 09:16 AM
How is Lukka this morning ??:goodvibes::fingerscr:grouphug:

Lukka'sma
January 11th, 2008, 10:28 AM
Thanks everyone
Well I spent a very restless night, slept on the floor beside Lukka for most of it, I knew she wouldn't find it easy to come get me in the bedroom if she needed me.
I took her out twice during the night but so far she hasn't pee'd. She can't seem to get the squat she's looking for and just lays down. No BM's either. That really concerns me with all the water she has drank yesterday and the food intake from her dinner last night and her soon to be morning meal. I just don't know what to do for her, and to top it off we have a miserable rainy day to cope with too.
The Pred she is on now is higher than the original dose for the MM. That was 30mg. daily now she's on 50mg. daily, reducing after two more day's. The Codeine she is on every twelve hours zonks her out for the first three or four hours after taking it.
She has been on glucosamine for well over a year now. 500mg. morning and 500mg. evening.

Lukka'sma
January 11th, 2008, 11:12 AM
Thank goodness she finally pee'd. Just took her out and walked her around the yard and she did the deed!!!!!!!!
No BM's yet.
She seems to be a lot more comfortable when she's outside so I have her on about a five ft. line and she's just laying in the grass. If I notice her position has changed too much I will bring her back in where I can monitor her better but if she just stay's in one spot which is more likely I'll allow her some outside time.
She wasn't putting any pressure on her bad leg at all, held it up the entire walk around the yard.

breeze
January 11th, 2008, 11:14 AM
Lukka'sma do you think the codine for the pain has binded her??
it does for human :shrug: is there anything you can give her to help her go poop??


lots of :grouphug::goodvibes::fingerscr:grouphug::goodvibe s::fingerscr

chico2
January 11th, 2008, 11:17 AM
Aww Lukka:sad:at least she peed.
I took Tylenol 3 with codein once,it knock me out for almost 2 days,but resting is the best for her,isn't it.
:pray:for improvement

SnowDancer
January 11th, 2008, 11:31 AM
Do you have a mattress that you could put on the floor for Lukka? We did this with out Dachshunds after their back surgeries - actually our neuro surgeon was also sleeping on the floor on a mattress with his 2 pups who had had same back surgery. This really helped a lot. I hope Lukka can tolerate the codeine okay - as Chico posted, it knocked her out - with me it was the opposite - I just don't sedate and either did my hounds - but my Eskie does. I really hope that Lukka doesn't need to have the ACL surgery and worse - on the other leg as well. My dog's Groomer's 2 1/2 year old had one leg done 2 weeks ago (is doing great) and will be having surgery on the other leg in 2 months. Seems to be getting more common - and her dog didn't have an "event". Don't suppose you happen to have the plan offered by VetInsurance? This is exactly why I took out it - just in case. Hasn't happened yet to my Eskimo but I can see it happening in exactly the same way that it happened to Lukka. The Plan doesn't cover hip dysplasia but will cover ACL - I initially didn't sign him up for the Plan because of the dysplasia issue, but changed my mind at 15 months. At my vet's, they used to the the surgery themselves, but now a specialist comes to their clinic to do the ACL procedure as needed - but he isn't a TPLO specialist - but then TPLO isn't always required. For TPLO in Toronto, people go to McMurrich St. - or to Guelph - I love Guelph's small animal clinic (although I absolutely NEVER want to go there again for obvious reasons) - but they sure have great doctors. Another thing you might want to try is a towel around Lukka - like a sling to help her when she has to go out to do her business. Hope the weather doesn't get too bad in London - it is really windy in Toronto and getting very cold - so not the best weather to be going through this.

CearaQC
January 11th, 2008, 11:45 AM
Sorry to hear about Lukka, but feel she will get better fast!

hazelrunpack
January 11th, 2008, 11:53 AM
50 mg :eek: Well, at least it will be for just a short time. And it may help with her jaw, as well! :fingerscr

The codeine will slow down her intestinal tract, so I wouldn't expect too much poopin' for the poor girl for a while. I wonder if pumpkin would help? We tried it yesterday with Ridge and this morning we already had success!

If you have a baby mattress, they really do work well! We used to use one for our old lab--he loved it! Makes a nice conversation piece, too...:rolleyes: We used to get some weird looks from guests when we told them what it was for--especially since we had some really nice puppy and Disney sheets for it! :laughing: (I'm glad we're not the only ones, SnowDancer :o)

Frenchy
January 11th, 2008, 03:15 PM
She wasn't putting any pressure on her bad leg at all, held it up the entire walk around the yard.

That's good ! :thumbs up She's resting it.

14+kitties
January 11th, 2008, 03:20 PM
More :grouphug: for Lukka. I guess that's about all we can do for the poor gal. :(

Stacer
January 11th, 2008, 03:39 PM
Poor Lukka! I know that ligament injuries are extremely painful, especially if there's a tear. Because there is no blood supply to ligaments, torn ligaments don't actually heal, the tear will never close itself back up. The only way to repair a tear is surgery. I tore the ACL in my knee a few years ago, I didn't have surgery because the tear was only a few millimeters, but my orthopedic surgeon said that I'll have to be careful because the tear will always be there and I could tear it more, which would require surgery.

After the swelling goes down, the pain will subside. Hopefully Lukka doesn't have a full tear. Will she let you ice the joint?

It' horrible to say, but even if it's only a small tear, it would almost be worth it to have the surgery to repair it, otherwise you'll always be worried that her activity will tear it further.

Lukka'sma
January 11th, 2008, 07:38 PM
What I find so frustrating is the vet said he couldn't stress enough how important it is to keep her from any and all activity for at least a week. I know he didn't mean going out for a pee but with the increase in Pred. she has to pee continually, how in he!! do I keep her from being active when I constantly have to take her outside. She hobbles about so that it just breaks my heart to see her attempt to move.:yell: We have to stop and rest every few feet. The whole pee thing takes us about 15 minutes to complete. Back in the house and she is asking to go out again within an hour.

rainbow
January 11th, 2008, 07:57 PM
:grouphug: :grouphug: I know how you feel. Chase did his first ligament tear (left leg) in Nov./06 We didn't want to get the TPLO surgery done right away because of the risk of slipping in the winter while he was recovering. After the first week or so of rest he did start putting a little weight on it so it made it easier for us since he wasn't tripodding. :o

Also, you said you are giving Lukka glucosamine. It works better if the chondroitin is added. The ones I give Chase are 500mg glucosamine and 400mg chondroitin. He weighs 90lb. and gets them three times a day. I would ask your vet about increasing Lukka's dosage. :)

Lukka'sma
January 11th, 2008, 08:10 PM
rainbow the glucosamine I have been giving Lukka has 200mg. chondroitin in it. 500mg. glucosamine, how much do you think I should increase it too?
Also I just took her out again and she is putting the injured leg on the ground but limping very badly on it. Isn't this going to delay the healing time by using it already? It's only been slightly over 24 hrs. since she hurt it?
And SHE POOPED ya-hooooooooooooooNot a huge amount, but enough that it makes me feel relieved.

rainbow
January 11th, 2008, 08:30 PM
I think you can buy chondroitin by itself so you can up her dose of that but I'm not sure of the strength it comes in. :shrug: The brand I buy is 500mg Glucosamine and 400mg Chondroitin and Chase weighs 90lb. and gets one caplet 3 times a day. I think Lukka should probably get the 500/400 four times a day or else 2 caplets twice a day but check with your vet.

That's good that she is putting her leg down a bit. By restricting her activity she will walk on it within a week or so but once she starts playing, etc. she will re-injure it again. I think you are going to end up getting the surgery eventually.

And WOO HOO for the poop. :highfive: With restricted activity she will probably only go once every 1 1/2 to 2 days. :o

clm
January 11th, 2008, 08:35 PM
I can't believe the bad luck you're having. Here's hoping that you are due for some good luck and surgery won't be necessary. :fingerscr

Cindy

Frenchy
January 11th, 2008, 10:24 PM
I think Lukka should probably get the 500/400 four times a day or else 2 caplets twice a day but check with your vet.


That's the amount I give Sam. Lukka should be ok with this. Hurray for the poop ! :thumbs up

chico2
January 12th, 2008, 07:49 AM
OMG,poop is SOOO exciting isn't it:thumbs up
Good Girl Lukka:dog:

rainbow
January 12th, 2008, 03:24 PM
How's Lukka doing today? :fingerscr :goodvibes:

Lukka'sma
January 12th, 2008, 04:57 PM
She's getting tired of being confined to a very small space. I have her at the back door in a small alcove. It isn't blocked so she can't get out to the kitchen but I try and discourage her from wandering more than a couple of feet into the kitchen. At night I put my sleeping bag on the kitchen floor at the entrance to the alcove and sleep with her. That way I can make certain she has me right beside her if she needs me:D Once she is off the Pred. I will take to my bed again because the need to pee constantly will be gone and she can go in her crate.
I called the vet office today and asked them to get the quote for the surgery together for me. I want to get this done next week depending on the clinic's scheduling availability.
Here is a pic of her that I just snapped. Not her happiest moment.:sick:

chico2
January 12th, 2008, 05:19 PM
Awww Lukka you poor beautiful girl,just look at that face:lovestruck:I hope she is not in pain :pray:
So,you have decided on surgery,there is no chance she'll heal on her own??

Lukka'sma
January 12th, 2008, 05:27 PM
Awww Lukka you poor beautiful girl,just look at that face:lovestruck:I hope she is not in pain :pray:
So,you have decided on surgery,there is no chance she'll heal on her own??


See here's my dilemma, her back end has always been somewhat less than perfect. She has a bit of a funky gate caused by the leg that didn't get injured but it does have a bit of a splay (foot pointed a bit outward) to it, so the leg that was the better of the two got the ligament tear, now the splayed leg is doing all the work for her rear end and I am afraid if I wait a few weeks and see if it will heal then end up having to do the surgery her splayed leg will be doing all the work far longer than I would want. It might end up being easier on her in the long run if I just go ahead and get the surgery now.

hazelrunpack
January 12th, 2008, 05:35 PM
Poor Lukka really doesn't look too happy. :sad: Will they have to wait till she's off the pred totally before doing the surgery?

It never rains but it pours, eh? :frustrated:

Yay for the poop, though! Nothing makes a dog mama feel prouder than a lovely dog poop after a long time without :cloud9:

Lukka'sma
January 12th, 2008, 05:50 PM
I'm not sure about the Pred. and surgery hazel.
I did read a post quite a while ago though about glucosamine being a blood thinner so I will have to ask the vet how long prior to the appointment I should take her off that.

clm
January 12th, 2008, 05:58 PM
She's looking a little bored isn't she. Do you have a crate that you can put outside for her so she can enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about her chasing squirrels?

Poor thing, whatever way you end up going with this, she's going to be layed up for a while. :sad:

Cindy

Lukka'sma
January 12th, 2008, 06:14 PM
She's looking a little bored isn't she. Do you have a crate that you can put outside for her so she can enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about her chasing squirrels?

Poor thing, whatever way you end up going with this, she's going to be layed up for a while. :sad:

Cindy

:laughing::laughing:she sure is
The only reason I haven't used her crate as yet is because the tin floor is slippery and even now with the ligament tear if she hears someone at the door or a noise outside she tries to jump to alert and on the slippery tin she'll just wipe out. I take her out for a pee and the first thing she does is survey the yard and see what needs barked at:laughing:, she's saying, "I may be laid up but don't think you can come in my yard." if I didn't have her leash on she would try and run after a squirrel for sure. She just doesn't remember her injury unless I constantly remind her:)

otter
January 12th, 2008, 06:18 PM
the tin floor is slippery
Could you put a bath mat with rubber backing onto the tin floor?

Maybe she needs one of those "dog videos" to keep her entertained :laughing: I saw them advertised but I have no idea what's on them

clm
January 12th, 2008, 06:19 PM
Funny how they forget they're hurt when they see something isn't it. :laughing:
A high prey drive isn't wonderful when you have to keep a dog quiet.
You are sure going to have your hands full for a while. At least if she was an old dog she wouldn't be terribly active anyway, but as young as she is, she's going to exhaust you trying to keep her quiet. :wall:

Lukka'sma
January 12th, 2008, 06:20 PM
Yes otter that is exactly what I will do :thumbs up
thanks

Lukka'sma
January 12th, 2008, 06:21 PM
Funny how they forget they're hurt when they see something isn't it. :laughing:
A high prey drive isn't wonderful when you have to keep a dog quiet.
You are sure going to have your hands full for a while. At least if she was an old dog she wouldn't be terribly active anyway, but as young as she is, she's going to exhaust you trying to keep her quiet. :wall:

Going to have our work cut out for us for sure.

SARAH
January 12th, 2008, 06:26 PM
Here is a pic of her that I just snapped. Not her happiest moment.:sick:

She is a beauty!! I don't think I've seen a pic of her other than your avatar until now. I'm blown away!

Poor "little" Lukka :sad: (to me, anything cute, sick/injured, or nice is "little", regardless of actual size :D )

otter
January 12th, 2008, 06:29 PM
Yes otter that is exactly what I will do :thumbs up
thanks
The bath mat or the video :laughing:? Maybe both :D? Seriously I wonder if the videos are any help?

Glad I could help the poor girl. My heart goes out to you both :goodvibes:

Lukka'sma
January 12th, 2008, 06:31 PM
SARAH thanks for the compliment. This is a pic of her kissing daddy goodbye just the day before she got hurt
http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p275/clwhal/CSC_0246.jpg

Lukka'sma
January 12th, 2008, 06:33 PM
The bath mat or the video :laughing:? Maybe both :D? Seriously I wonder if the videos are any help?

Glad I could help the poor girl. My heart goes out to you both :goodvibes:

:laughing::laughing:the bath mat:p

SARAH
January 12th, 2008, 06:47 PM
SARAH thanks for the compliment. This is a pic of her kissing daddy goodbye just the day before she got hurt
http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p275/clwhal/CSC_0246.jpg

Sweet dog, that's what I said .. "little" !! :thumbs up I guess she's tall enough that you can put your hand on her head with your elbow slightly bent? Lol, that's just the limit for a dog to go from large to medium in my book, being able to pet it without bending over :laughing:

Frenchy
January 12th, 2008, 07:10 PM
ahhh , Lukka would look so good resting here on MY couch :cloud9:

clm
January 12th, 2008, 07:16 PM
Frenchy, you're such a sucker for big dogs. :laughing:

She is so pretty, I just love her colouring. And who could resist that beautiful face.

Frenchy
January 12th, 2008, 07:22 PM
Frenchy, you're such a sucker for big dogs. :laughing:



I'm already bored with just 3 dogs (2 cats) in the house :laughing:

Just kidding :o

rainbow
January 13th, 2008, 02:42 AM
At night I put my sleeping bag on the kitchen floor at the entrance to the alcove and sleep with her. That way I can make certain she has me right beside her if she needs me:D Once she is off the Pred. I will take to my bed again because the need to pee constantly will be gone and she can go in her crate.
I called the vet office today and asked them to get the quote for the surgery together for me. I want to get this done next week depending on the clinic's scheduling availability.


Are you getting the TPLO surgery or the regular one?

Do you have one of those air beds? After Chase had his first TPLO I slept on the floor with the mattress from the spare cot. It was so hard to move it though so after the second TPLO I bought a twin size air bed so I could sleep beside him. It was even more comfortable than the cot mattress. :o



Yes otter that is exactly what I will do :thumbs up
thanks


We also put an old comforter in Chase's crate so it would be softer for him. :o

rainbow
January 13th, 2008, 02:48 AM
Another thing you can do is put an old blanket or sheet underneath the tin crate liner as it will block most of the noise when she moves around. :o

chico2
January 13th, 2008, 07:42 AM
LM,you make perfect sense,I saw something similar on Emergency Vet,where the dog damaged her good leg overcompensating.

I would just love to give that"little"furball a big hug and tell her everything will be ok,you and hubby too:pray:

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 07:44 AM
Are you getting the TPLO surgery or the regular one?

Do you have one of those air beds? After Chase had his first TPLO I slept on the floor with the mattress from the spare cot. It was so hard to move it though so after the second TPLO I bought a twin size air bed so I could sleep beside him. It was even more comfortable than the cot mattress. :o
We also put an old comforter in Chase's crate so it would be softer for him. :o

Just the regular surgery rainbow

Hubby is going out this morning to buy me an air bed:)

I will try and line her crate with blankets, normally she refused to use blankets in her crate, she loves to cool tin floor.

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 07:45 AM
LM,you make perfect sense,I saw something similar on Emergency Vet,where the dog damaged her good leg overcompensating.

I would just love to give that"little"furball a big hug and tell her everything will be ok,you and hubby too:pray:

We are all feeling the love, thanks so much chico

SnowDancer
January 13th, 2008, 01:16 PM
Lukka's Ma - when you get the air bed examine it carefully for potential tears and "deflation" that will be caused by Lukka moving about - her nails, etc. After our last Dachshund had his surgery I bought a double size - needed room for at least 2 of us on the floor - and within less than a week it had tiny holes and air just kept leaking out. I went back to the store for Plan B and found a wonderful air mattress - already filled - thinner but more comfortable - and quite long. It wasn't cheap - in July 2003 it cost $85 but considering the one that lasted only a few days cost nearly $50 I think a good buy. We had it until a few weeks ago - after my darling died my husband used it as an exercise mat of all things - was really too thick for that though. I hope the surgery goes well - my Eskie's groomer's dog is doing extremely well. She did not have the TPLO either. You are so near Guelph (well at least you seem to be since you are in London and I am in Toronto and at midnight the drive to Guelph seemed awfully long) - are you going to have surgery done there?

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 01:25 PM
We are getting the surgery done here in London. The vet has been well doing this procedure for many years and did my sisters cat's acl's as well. Her cat had both legs done and recovered perfectly and has been fine now for four years:thumbs up
Lukka has to be off the Prednisone for at least three full days so that means her surgery has to be put off until the 22 January. She goes in at 7:30am and has to stay there for two nights:sad: I don't know how I am going to get through all that time without seeing her. I have never been away from her longer than one shift at work:shrug:

otter
January 13th, 2008, 01:28 PM
I will try and line her crate with blankets, normally she refused to use blankets in her crate, she loves to cool tin floor.

To keep that coolness try lining the tin with vinyl - like the stuff you use to cover bar stools with (that's the only use I can think of) or even leather (if you can find it). Both are soft enough not to be slippery but thin enough to still be cool. It'll get all scratched up but it's not expensive (the vinyl anyways) and can just be replaced as needed. You should be able to find it at a fabric store or from an upholstery shop - you can even put spray glue on the bottom to make it really sticky (available in office or art supply stores - get the removable type, there are usually permanent and removable versions, else it will be VERY messy to remove)

SnowDancer
January 13th, 2008, 01:30 PM
Happy that your vet has such great experience! I get so focused on Guelph because my pets' problems seemed to be emergencies requiring immediate surgery - or else. It will be hard not seeing your pup - I hated leaving my guy in Guelph for 5 days and with my first Dachshund, he had to stay in the hospital - in Toronto at that time - neuro travelled in those days - for 40 days - but he walked again so in the end that is what mattered. My groomer's Boxer had to stay just the one night in hospital, but every dog is different and the groomer has been through the procedure a few times - and will be doing so again next month when leg 2 is done on the Boxer. You will be so happy when all of this is over and then Lukka can get even more hugs, kisses, toys, FOOD!

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 03:41 PM
I just hope that someday she will be able to handle the walks like we used to take daily at the conservation area. She was the happiest when we were out hiking in the woods. I have no idea how long the recovery will be, so I don't know if our walks (even short ones) will resume this year or not. Someone told me that humans that have this surgery can be off their exercise routines for months:eek:, and perhaps never play sports again, so I don't know if dogs ever get back to where they were prior to the injury.

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 03:47 PM
Happy that your vet has such great experience! I get so focused on Guelph because my pets' problems seemed to be emergencies requiring immediate surgery - or else. It will be hard not seeing your pup - I hated leaving my guy in Guelph for 5 days and with my first Dachshund, he had to stay in the hospital - in Toronto at that time - neuro travelled in those days - for 40 days - but he walked again so in the end that is what mattered. My groomer's Boxer had to stay just the one night in hospital, but every dog is different and the groomer has been through the procedure a few times - and will be doing so again next month when leg 2 is done on the Boxer. You will be so happy when all of this is over and then Lukka can get even more hugs, kisses, toys, FOOD!

Don't get me wrong I am a huge fan of Guelph. When our friends dog came down with Aspergillosis two vets and almost $7,000.00 couldn't pin point the problem, then the dog was sent to Guelph and with in a half hour a diagnosis was reached. I think they are wonderful. This just doesn't seem to be something that our vet can't handle.

rainbow
January 13th, 2008, 03:57 PM
Is Lukka really active? We were told by my vet that TPLO surgery is best for large active breeds and that's why she referred us to a vet that is able to do the TPLO. Did your vet explain the difference to you?

Here is some information...

http://www.vetsurgerycentral.com/cruciatelrt.htm#

http://www.westlakeanimalhospital.com/Encyclopedia/Acral_Lick/Addison_s_Disease/Adrenal_Gland_Disease__Ferrets/Anal_Sac_Disease__Canine/cruciate_ligament_rupture__can.html

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 04:34 PM
rainbow she's kind of a lay around the yard and watch over us girl. She loves her walks in the woods but at home she isn't over active, squirrel runs from time to time:frustrated:
We chase her sometimes but after a minute she just says, "You guy's continue I am going over here to watch people walk by and see that they behave themselves.":laughing:
Those links were great. I have googled this subject a couple of times but I never came across those sites. Thanks. I am going back to re-read them again.
If our vet decides at the final hour that the surgery should be the TPLO, then I guess we will have to go with that. I am really hoping however we can get this other procedure done.

Luba
January 13th, 2008, 05:10 PM
I hope all will be well I'm so sorry to read of this.
Did your vet taper off the prednisone. It cannot be stopped suddenly it needs to be tapered if been taking it longer then a week. Very best of luck and that is a great picture a very beautiful dog for sure.

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 05:31 PM
Yea, tapering off the Pred now

Luba
January 13th, 2008, 05:36 PM
Oh and for the crate I put a rubberized door mat type of thing under the metal tray and it didn't move at all. I put another one down ontop of the tray before putting bedding in. Keeps things in place and worked really well for me.

You guys will make it through this!:thumbs up

Luba
January 13th, 2008, 05:37 PM
Rubberized door mat = carpet with rubber on the bottom
My brain cannot figure out if there is a word for that right now lol:lightbulb:

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 06:13 PM
Rubberized door mat = carpet with rubber on the bottom
My brain cannot figure out if there is a word for that right now lol:lightbulb:

It's OK, I know what you mean. I will look into getting one of those rubber matty thingies for her crate

rainbow
January 13th, 2008, 06:32 PM
rainbow she's kind of a lay around the yard and watch over us girl. She loves her walks in the woods but at home she isn't over active, squirrel runs from time to time:frustrated:
We chase her sometimes but after a minute she just says, "You guy's continue I am going over here to watch people walk by and see that they behave themselves.":laughing:
Those links were great. I have googled this subject a couple of times but I never came across those sites. Thanks. I am going back to re-read them again.
If our vet decides at the final hour that the surgery should be the TPLO, then I guess we will have to go with that. I am really hoping however we can get this other procedure done.


Since she's laid back you should be okay with the regular surgery. The TPLO is more of a necessity for a large dog that is very active or any dog that's in agility. Chase is very hyper and him & Logan play extremely rough so that's why we opted for the TPLO.

I have a friend with a laid back golden and they got the regular surgery for their dog. She walks alot with her dog but it doesn't play much and they've been happy with the regular surgery. In fact they've opted for it twice as the dog has ruptured the ligaments in both legs.

Frenchy
January 13th, 2008, 06:38 PM
I have a friend with a laid back golden and they got the regular surgery for their dog. She walks alot with her dog but it doesn't play much and they've been happy with the regular surgery. In fact they've opted for it twice as the dog has ruptured the ligaments in both legs.

Same with my sister's golden. He's now 12 yr old and doing very well. :thumbs up

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 06:38 PM
rainbow how long of a recuperation time are we looking at? Will she be able to go on short walks (by short I mean about 2kilometers in time. Would hoping for short walks by the end of summer be awful adventurous of me?
Also with the lesser surgery, does that mean we should never allow a friend to bring a dog over to play for a half hour or so (when she's better)

rainbow
January 13th, 2008, 06:56 PM
With the TPLO surgery it is eight weeks of only going outside on leash for potty breaks. Then the next eight weeks is rehabilitation to build the muscle back up. The rehab consists of short 10 min. walks a couple times a day to start then gradually increase the length of time until you're back to normal for your dog. So that's like four months all together if there isn't any complications.

My friend told me about the recuperation time for the regular surgery but I can't remember. It is a shorter time period though because they don't break the bone to do the surgery. That's another reason why we opted for the TPLO because Chase's back end conformation was lousy and they can correct it somewhat by cutting the one bone (forget which one) and then realigning it with the other.

rainbow
January 13th, 2008, 07:14 PM
I forgot to answer your question about playing with another dog. I guess it would depend on how roughly they play. :shrug: It's a hard question to really answer. I would hate to say "yeah, it's fine" and then something happen to Lukka again. You know what I mean? :o

One thing I can tell you though is that my friend doesn't have a clue how her golden tore the ligament in her second leg. It happened about 4 yr. after the first one.

Chase also tore the ligament in his other leg a little over 4 months after the first one. We knew it would happen because of his conformation but we didn't think it would happen that fast.

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 07:33 PM
I fully understand you not being comfortable saying Lukka can or should play with other dogs. I should have thought of thathttp://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p275/clwhal/punch.gif
But thanks for all the info you did supply me with, I really love those links to acl surgery

rainbow
January 13th, 2008, 07:41 PM
There is also a forum at Yahoo for people that have gone through or are about to go get these types of surgeries for their dogs. I'll see if I can find it.

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 07:45 PM
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r113/FlutterGrrrl/Really%20smileys/smileywhistle.gifhttp://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r113/FlutterGrrrl/Really%20smileys/smileywhistle.gifhttp://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r113/FlutterGrrrl/Really%20smileys/smileywhistle.gif
*taps toes too*

found it yet


just kidding

rainbow
January 13th, 2008, 07:46 PM
Here is the group....you can join it if you want to ask questions or else just read the latest posts and archives.

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/orthodogs/?yguid=250363800

rainbow
January 13th, 2008, 07:49 PM
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r113/FlutterGrrrl/Really%20smileys/smileywhistle.gifhttp://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r113/FlutterGrrrl/Really%20smileys/smileywhistle.gifhttp://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r113/FlutterGrrrl/Really%20smileys/smileywhistle.gif
*taps toes too*

found it yet


just kidding


:laughing: :laughing: I did find it fairly quickly ...... but it's the pages at pets.ca that are taking forever to load for some reason. :rolleyes: :frustrated:

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 07:50 PM
Oh WOW, that looks great
Signing off for a bit to go do some reading
thanks rainbow

rainbow
January 13th, 2008, 07:54 PM
Oh WOW, that looks great
Signing off for a bit to go do some reading
thanks rainbow

Signing Off ???? How would we know....your light is never on and we can't see you. :D

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 07:59 PM
Signing Off ???? How would we know....your light is never on and we can't see you. :D

:laughing::laughing:The only reason I stay hidden is because every time I log off this site my computer freezes and I have to re boot. So I stay signed in and if I allowed my name to be at the bottom like I should it would appear like I have no life and I spend every minute of the day on this site and I would look like a :loser:

Luba
January 13th, 2008, 08:01 PM
Chase also tore the ligament in his other leg a little over 4 months after the first one. We knew it would happen because of his conformation but we didn't think it would happen that fast

That happened to my last dog Rusty (in avatar) he tore two cruciate ligaments within weeks of one another. That was only after having 10 days of prednisone. Prednisone can help but it can also cause a lot of damage.
With Rusty he was only able to have the one surgery, they were unable to do both he was really old and had a heart condition. We had him in a leg brace for a year to see if it will heal on it's own it didn't. So the vet and ortho surgeon recommended removing it. IT was no longer painful just weak and unsupported so he had a little limp. Both were back legs.

Rubber mat thingy lol:crazy:

rainbow
January 13th, 2008, 08:45 PM
:laughing::laughing:The only reason I stay hidden is because every time I log off this site my computer freezes and I have to re boot. So I stay signed in [QUOTE]

:laughing: I would say it's time for a new computer but Lukka's surgery is going to take care of that. :D


[QUOTE]and if I allowed my name to be at the bottom like I should it would appear like I have no life and I spend every minute of the day on this site and I would look like a :loser:

My name is Rainbow and I am a pets.ca -aholic. :laughing:

Luba
January 13th, 2008, 09:03 PM
So then the computer must have the hiccups not you :crazy:

Oh and I was just thinking. When Rusty had his surgery it was hard to use a crate hard to get in to turn around and to get comfortable because it was too closed in. So instead I 'penned' him in an area. Maybe you can think of something like that would be easier for Lukka. Not feeling so 'caged' in.
What may be a good idea are those fold open pens that look like giant baby gates. What do ya think about that?

Lukka'sma
January 13th, 2008, 09:16 PM
[QUOTE=Lukka'sma;530578]:laughing::laughing:The only reason I stay hidden is because every time I log off this site my computer freezes and I have to re boot. So I stay signed in [QUOTE]

:laughing: I would say it's time for a new computer but Lukka's surgery is going to take care of that. :D
My name is Rainbow and I am a pets.ca -aholic. :laughing:
No new computer in my immediate future
The 12 step program...........maybe:laughing: I should change my invisible mode and see if anyone notices that I live on this site 24/7:D, even though I'm not really here a lot of the time


So then the computer must have the hiccups not you :crazy:

Oh and I was just thinking. When Rusty had his surgery it was hard to use a crate hard to get in to turn around and to get comfortable because it was too closed in. So instead I 'penned' him in an area. Maybe you can think of something like that would be easier for Lukka. Not feeling so 'caged' in.
What may be a good idea are those fold open pens that look like giant baby gates. What do ya think about that?
Good thinking. I have a gate and can put her in the alcove at the back of the house. Lots of room, about 6 X4 so she would have ample area.:thumbs up

hazelrunpack
January 13th, 2008, 10:40 PM
Lukka has to be off the Prednisone for at least three full days so that means her surgery has to be put off until the 22 January. She goes in at 7:30am and has to stay there for two nights:sad: I don't know how I am going to get through all that time without seeing her. I have never been away from her longer than one shift at work:shrug:

:grouphug: When we had Priscilla's hips replaced, she had to stay at the U of MN for a week each time. It really was hard to leave her there, especially for the second surgery. :sad: If we'd been closer, they would have allowed visits--will you be able to go see her?

To keep that coolness try lining the tin with vinyl - like the stuff you use to cover bar stools with (that's the only use I can think of) or even leather (if you can find it). Both are soft enough not to be slippery but thin enough to still be cool. It'll get all scratched up but it's not expensive (the vinyl anyways) and can just be replaced as needed. You should be able to find it at a fabric store or from an upholstery shop - you can even put spray glue on the bottom to make it really sticky (available in office or art supply stores - get the removable type, there are usually permanent and removable versions, else it will be VERY messy to remove)

Are you thinking of naugahide, otter? Not sure if that's how you spell it--but it's basically a vinyl leather--soft, a few millimeters thick... I got a largish piece from an upholsterer and used it as a drop cloth when painting at the easel! :thumbs up It's not slippery at all, LM, so it might be ideal for Lukka!

It really holds up to dogs pretty well... I was still painting when I had just the Trio (Cass, Cole, and Ember) and it stood up to their marauding puppy paws quite nicely! :dog: :dog: :dog: :D Chew resistant, too...but they quickly found out they could pull it and get a wild reaction from Mom... :rolleyes: :laughing:

breeze
January 14th, 2008, 08:41 AM
I don't know to much about the surgery..

But I just wanted to send ALOT of :goodvibes::grouphug::fingerscr:pray: for your girl lukka to get better so that you can have your beautiful peaceful walks again....

:goodvibes::goodvibes::grouphug::fingerscr:pray:

Lukka'sma
January 14th, 2008, 11:06 AM
Thanks everyone for all the support.
Hazel the vet where she will be is only a very few blocks from our home and we pass by it several times a day just doing regular running around and such. I would love to visit her but am wondering if it might cause her to try and get up and move around too much in those first couple of days. If it was surgery on any part of her other than a leg I might be inclined to go over and sit with her. As much as I will want to go in there, I think she will do better without hearing our voices or seeing us:sad:

SnowDancer
January 14th, 2008, 11:41 AM
Lukka'sMa - I agree with not trying to visit your pup - reaction would be exactly as described and of course pup would obviously be thinking that Mommy had come to spring her. The only time I visited a dog in hospital was when my Dachshund had to stay for 40 days - there were no guarantees with this surgery so every little bit helped. Of course I ended taking home another dog that I played with during my visits - he had been abandoned at the vets several months before and they were keeping him hoping for a home. My groomer's Boxer was not crated after her surgery 2 weeks ago, but just confined a bit. Actually, the Thurs. after her previous Thurs. surgery, she met me at the door - this did surprise me.

Lukka'sma
January 14th, 2008, 12:49 PM
Lukka'sMa - I agree with not trying to visit your pup - reaction would be exactly as described and of course pup would obviously be thinking that Mommy had come to spring her. The only time I visited a dog in hospital was when my Dachshund had to stay for 40 days - there were no guarantees with this surgery so every little bit helped. Of course I ended taking home another dog that I played with during my visits - he had been abandoned at the vets several months before and they were keeping him hoping for a home. My groomer's Boxer was not crated after her surgery 2 weeks ago, but just confined a bit. Actually, the Thurs. after her previous Thurs. surgery, she met me at the door - this did surprise me.

I hope Lukka recovers quickly too:thumbs up

hazelrunpack
January 14th, 2008, 01:05 PM
The only time I visited a dog in hospital was when my Dachshund had to stay for 40 days - there were no guarantees with this surgery so every little bit helped.

:eek: That sure puts everything in a different perspective! 40 days! :eek: I'd be a basket case. Poor little guy! :o

Yeah, I guess it might be hard on Lukka thinking that mom was coming to spring her :laughing: and then left without her :sad:. Two days isn't so long, I guess...certainly not a marathon like 40 days!!!!!!

Lukka'sma
January 14th, 2008, 02:26 PM
Lukka'sMa - I agree with not trying to visit your pup - reaction would be exactly as described and of course pup would obviously be thinking that Mommy had come to spring her. The only time I visited a dog in hospital was when my Dachshund had to stay for 40 days - there were no guarantees with this surgery so every little bit helped. Of course I ended taking home another dog that I played with during my visits - he had been abandoned at the vets several months before and they were keeping him hoping for a home. My groomer's Boxer was not crated after her surgery 2 weeks ago, but just confined a bit. Actually, the Thurs. after her previous Thurs. surgery, she met me at the door - this did surprise me.

40 days must have been like an eternity for your little Dachshund:sad: I just can't imagine how hard it was for both you and your puppers

SnowDancer
January 14th, 2008, 05:47 PM
Yep, 40 days was a nightmare - what was worse though is that he regained feeling to left side of body at day 10 and the right side at day 30 - we were seriously worried there and vets were even looking into side wheelchairs. This guy was super Alpha - only reason the neuro did the surgery - this guy didn't want to go anywhere without me - and actually he became a case study at the university - too bad he wasn't paid for his contribution to Dachshund disc disease! The day he walked, he cried, I cried and so did the vets at the clinic. He had full body - including neck - surgery - so a bugger. Hopefully Lukka will have a speedy recovery. My guy had his KC shot on the 5th - so just 2 weeks and 2 days after the Boxer had her ACL surgery - and since groomer is in same building as vet, she came out when she saw my Eskie and proceeded to try and mount him - yep my guy is a boy - but equal opportunity and the big babes love him. My husband hadn't seen it happen before - I see it weekly - but he was very surprised at how agile the Boxer was 2 weeks post surgery. Maybe it helps that she is 2 1/2. Years ago 2 fellows I worked with fell on ice downtown and each broke their collar bones -guy was in his 20s the other in his late 50s - the younger fellow heeled in no time. So here's hoping for Lukka!