Guest BLIsStillFlying Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 Well, my baby boy broke his leg last night. Really quite badly. He was put on a more strict regimen of Deramaxx for his hind end arthritis and was having a 'good day'--we were in the dog park alone with his brother Melvin and Bradley wanted to play, so we let him run (which, believe me, I am still racked with guilt over). He slipped and his hind end went under him and he made the *worst* scream ever for two minutes straight. Fast forward to emergency vet--Brad shattered his good back leg. Options--pins and plates and orthopedic specialists for surgery. Concern--he's ten years old with an arthritic non-broken leg. They said he'd have to keep off his leg entirely for six weeks. I fear he'll instinctively lean on that supported leg as opposed to his arthritic leg. And he's ten. How could he heal from something like that? External pins, plates in his leg, reconstruction... They also suggested amputation, which would be the best option in my opinion except for his only remaining back leg would be arthritic. I guess we'd just increase the pain meds drastically and hold on as long as his kidneys and liver do. And...euthanasia, but after my breakdown last night we're not seriously considering that now. I'm seriously upset at my emergency vet, who was trying to slip in charges as I was crying in their waiting room (which I caught...no, I do not want chest and abdomen X-rays to check for possible nodules...what?!) and, while I know they need to be disconnected, would give me *no* advice or address *any* of my questions that were no bill-related (which is already an overnight visit totaling a couple grand). And joking and laughing with me? Sorry I wasn't too receptive at 10 at night while my boy is screaming in the room behind you. He's at the E-vet right now on the highest dose of pain meds they can give. They suggest transferring him to an orthopedic specialist today (we're in MI Ann Arbor area). They suggested MSU or Michigan Veterinary Specialists. He'd go in as an emergency patient so he could be seen quickly on Monday. ...anybody have advice? Thoughts? Experiences that relate? I honestly don't know what to do. I don't know if I want to put him through intense orthopedic surgery and recovering at ten years old with arthritis, but I don't know how he'd do as a tripod. I can't fathom putting my heart dog down right now...I know I should be asking an orthopedic specialist all this, but no one's open and no one will give me answers. BL is still (barely) flying, KB Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Batmom Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 MSU. You want a specialist to look at the x-rays and make reasonably sure that the leg didn't break due to some pathology. Hopefully some other folks with this experience will wander by soon. My heart goes out to you -- I can imagine how shocked and frightened you are. Quote Star aka Starz Ovation (Ronco x Oneco Maggie*, litter #48538), Coco aka Low Key (Kiowa Mon Manny x Party Hardy, litter # 59881), and mom in IllinoisWe miss Reko Batman (Trouper Zeke x Marque Louisiana), 11/15/95-6/29/06, Rocco the thistledown whippet, 04/29/93-10/14/08, Reko Zema (Mo Kick x Reko Princess), 8/16/98-4/18/10, the most beautiful girl in the whole USA, my good egg Joseph aka Won by a Nose (Oneco Cufflink x Buy Back), 09/22/2003-03/01/2013, and our gentle sweet Gidget (Digitizer, Dodgem by Design x Sobe Mulberry), 1/29/2006-11/22/2014, gone much too soon. Never forgetting CJC's Buckshot, 1/2/07-10/25/10. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FountainLady Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 My heart goes out to you. I would take him to MSU and have them give you their opinions. The chest X-Rays really are a good idea, as he could have Osteosarcoma bone cancer and if it has moved to his lungs, then euthanasia may be your kindest option. Michigan State will be less expensive than an emergency vet for things like this. I have used MSU's services many times over the years for my hounds and my horses. They do a wonderful job there. I'm so very sorry ..... Quote CORY and CRICKET - Solitary Tremble & CASPER - Pj's Mia Farrow* With CAPT. GUS - Solitary Trigger, RAINY - Peach Rain, PUP - Red Zepher, DOC - CTW Fort Sumpterand MAX - Shiowa's Silver Maxamillion / Afghan .... all waiting at the bridge Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest kydie Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 Somtimes the hardest choice, is the best, you must deicide what his quality of life will be, including the amout of pain he will have to endure, I am sorry for your pup, Good Luck with whatever you choose Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GreyPoopon Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 Cora has just been through this. Her right leg was already a bit wobbly--she had a severe hip injury in Nov 07, and may also have hurt it when she was younger--and in March she slipped in the house and broke her good leg. She was just two months short of her 10th birthday. Fortunately, she had the wit to do it at 5:15pm, and our vet clinic agreed to see us, clearing it's schedule to do so. We saw our regular vet, who diagnosed the break and x-rayed it. There was no sign of cancer in the leg. The senior vet is a skilled orthopedic surgeon who has repaired at least one other shattered greyhound leg, so I had no qualms about leaving Cora in their hands. The next morning, they did more x-rays to check the break and the other back leg--they opted not to x-ray the lungs--and the senior vet put in a bunch of hardware. All of the hardware is internal. She was walking on the leg almost immediately. Both vets told me that a break in a healthy leg is not unusual: my regular vet said that they're surprisingly easy to break, the senior vet said they're like ballerina legs. The thread on all of this is here: Cora Needs Your Help. The healing process takes at least 6 months. It is a roller coaster, with good days and bad. I don't know if she'll ever be able to trot without limping, but she is now walking fairly well most of the time, and seems happy. She is no longer on regular pain medication, although I do give her some if she seems ouchy. The big question is whether I would do it again. I have to say that I would hesitate: it would depend on the age and condition of the dog. Cora would not be a good tripod--I'm not sure any dog could in this house--so it was either repair it or say goodbye. I'm not the least bit sorry that I chose to repair it. But, if she were significantly older, less healthy, or less of a stoic, the decision could have been different. Just by-the-by, she has since suffered an FCE on her right side, and was essentially a one-legged dog for a week. She's made it back from that too. That story is here: Cora Needs Your Help Again. My heart goes out to you and your boy. Quote Standard Poodle Daisy (12/13) Missing Cora (RL Nevada 5/99-10/09), Piper (Cee Bar Easy 2/99-1/10), Tally (Thunder La La 9/99-3/10), Edie (Daring Reva 9/99-10/12), Dixie (Kiowa Secret Sue 11/01-1/13), Jessie (P's Real Time 11/98-3/13), token boy Graham (Zydeco Dancer 9/00-5/13), Cal (Back Already 12/99-11/13), Betsy (Back Kick Beth 11/98-12/13), Standard Poodles Minnie (1/99-1/14) + Perry (9/98-2/14), Annie (Do Marcia 9/03-10/14), Pink (Miss Pinky Baker 1/02-6/15), Poppy (Cmon Err Not 8/05-1/16), Kat (Jax Candy 5/05-5/17), Ivy (Jax Isis 10/07-7/21), Hildy (Braska Hildy 7/10-12/22), Opal (Jax Opal 7/08-4/23). Toodles (BL Toodles 7/09-4/24) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KF_in_Georgia Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 Don't feel guilty over letting your boy play at the park. I had a perfectly healthy 8-year-old break her leg in my living room. For your boy, I agree that you want an assessment of his overall health to be certain there's no underlying pathological problem. Whether you choose repair or amputation, you're going to have to rely on his remaining (arthritic) leg to support him. Try to get the vet to assess that leg in terms of whether it's up to the task. My fear would be that, with repair, he'd constantly reinjure himself trying not to use the arthritic leg. Realistically, what are the chances that you could prevent that? You know your boy's personality, and a vet can advise you whether the arthritic leg really can take the strain. Quote Kathy and Q (CRT Qadeer from Fuzzy's Cannon and CRT Bonnie) and Jane (WW's Aunt Jane from Trent Lee and Aunt M); photos to come. Missing Silver (5.19.2005-10.27.2016), Tigger (4.5.2007-3.18.2016), darling Sam (5.10.2000-8.8.2013), Jacey-Kasey (5.19.2003-8.22.2011), and Oreo (1997-3.30.2006) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MandysMom Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 No advice, just sending prayers for Brad. Quote Beverly. Missing my happy toy-flinging boy Sammy (Where's Mandrill), (8/12/2009-9/30-2021) Desperately missing my angel Mandy (BB's Luv) [7/1/2000 - 9/18/2012]. Always missing Meg the Dalmatian and Ralph Malph the Pekeapoo. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sweetdogs Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 Considering your awful experience at the e-vet , I wouldn't trust their findings for a second. I would take him to MSU to be evaluated & get a good diagnosis & prognosis for all your options. Then make your decision from there. (BTW, my huge, state-of-the-art, 10 min from my house e-vet is the same way - if I could, I'd travel 45 min to get to the next one.) I'm so sorry this has happened to your boy. It's hard to know sometimes whether to bubble wrap them or let them live life full out. I hope both of you feel better today & that you have lots more time together. Quote Deirdre with Conor (Daring Pocobueno), Keeva (Kiowa Mimi Mona), & kittehs Gemma & robthomas. Our beloved angels Faolin & Liath, & kittehs Mona & Caesar. Remembering Bobby, Doc McCoy, & Chip McGrath. "He feeds you, pets you, adores you, collects your poop in a bag. There's only one explanation: you are a hairy little god." Nick Galifinakis Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest mountain4greys Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 (edited) I am in no way an expert on this, but I think if it were my hound, I would go to MSU also. Edited to add: I'm very sorry you and your hound are going through this, and I pray for the best. Edited July 26, 2009 by mountain4greys Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Energy11 Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 I would go to MSU for another opinion/eval, and go from there. I would trust THEM over this "E-vet" ... I am sure the University people would give you the right advice. Good luck and many prayers from here. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest BLIsStillFlying Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 Thank you to all for your advice and help. After reading the responses we decided on MSU--completely different experience. The vet was extremely optimistic and had a much less-drastic prognosis for Brad. He's getting one plate to hold the break and a cast but, within 8-10 weeks, they expect a full recovery. No talk of amputation or euthanasia. He's there now and will go into surgery either tomorrow or the next day. Thank you for all your kind words of wisdom and encouragement--we'll keep you posted on his recovery (because that's what it is now). ...Melvin (his brother) says 'yay'. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GreyPoopon Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 It seems sort of rude to do this while your boy is doped up and awaiting surgery, but :yay I'm looking forward to reading your positive updates. Quote Standard Poodle Daisy (12/13) Missing Cora (RL Nevada 5/99-10/09), Piper (Cee Bar Easy 2/99-1/10), Tally (Thunder La La 9/99-3/10), Edie (Daring Reva 9/99-10/12), Dixie (Kiowa Secret Sue 11/01-1/13), Jessie (P's Real Time 11/98-3/13), token boy Graham (Zydeco Dancer 9/00-5/13), Cal (Back Already 12/99-11/13), Betsy (Back Kick Beth 11/98-12/13), Standard Poodles Minnie (1/99-1/14) + Perry (9/98-2/14), Annie (Do Marcia 9/03-10/14), Pink (Miss Pinky Baker 1/02-6/15), Poppy (Cmon Err Not 8/05-1/16), Kat (Jax Candy 5/05-5/17), Ivy (Jax Isis 10/07-7/21), Hildy (Braska Hildy 7/10-12/22), Opal (Jax Opal 7/08-4/23). Toodles (BL Toodles 7/09-4/24) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lflaherty45 Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 I was just catching up and had my heart in my throat. I am so glad that the news is good, continued prayers for a speedy recovery. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest trevdog Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 Hoping for a successful surgery...not to sound negative or anything, but are they sure the break isn't due to OS? I'd want to be sure.... Hugs and prayers..... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rickiesmom Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 Same here - reading Brad's story for the first time and very relieved to know MSU has seen him and the prognosis is so promising!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HopeForHounds Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 I'm relieved that MSU has an optimistic outlook. We'll all be here to support you through his healing process. Quote Casual Bling & Hope for HoundsJanet & the hounds Maggie and Allen Missing my baby girl Peanut, old soul Jake, quirky Jet, Mama Grandy and my old Diva Miz Foxy; my angel, my inspiration. You all brought so much into my light, and taught me so much about the power of love, you are with me always.If you get the chance to sit it out or dance.......... I hope you dance! Missing our littlest girl. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Annie Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 That is such awesome news! Sending prayers for an easy surgery and full recovery! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest BLIsStillFlying Posted July 26, 2009 Share Posted July 26, 2009 Thanks everyone--we're extremely happy but still cautious. The vet has decided to do the x-rays I previously scoffed at, but the bone (and the break) does not point to OS at this time. It appears to be trauma and he has a tendency for this (the opposite leg has arthritis from a similar break from his last race). I'll know positively tomorrow at around noon. Hopefully they will then schedule surgery for that day or the next...so relieved! I'll keep the board posted! Thanks again for the well wishes and advice. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FountainLady Posted July 27, 2009 Share Posted July 27, 2009 Yay - I'm SO glad that MSU had good things to say. I have used them several times over the past several decades, and they actually saved two of my horses lives when my local vets threw up their hands and said that they couldn't do anything to save them. I have always been pleased with their knowledge, professionalism, and their care and concern for the animals. I never hesitate to go to them for a second opinion, and being a teaching college they have all the latest state of the art equipment. They also don't over charge for their services. They are a wonderful asset to the state of Michigan. I hope Bradley's surgery is uneventful and he heals up quickly for you. I'm SO happy that they feel it is a "normal" broken bone !!!!!! We will all be pulling for him for a complete recovery! Quote CORY and CRICKET - Solitary Tremble & CASPER - Pj's Mia Farrow* With CAPT. GUS - Solitary Trigger, RAINY - Peach Rain, PUP - Red Zepher, DOC - CTW Fort Sumpterand MAX - Shiowa's Silver Maxamillion / Afghan .... all waiting at the bridge Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MandysMom Posted July 27, 2009 Share Posted July 27, 2009 I'm glad MSU's outlook was so much better. Sending prayers for a successful surgery and uneventful recovery. Quote Beverly. Missing my happy toy-flinging boy Sammy (Where's Mandrill), (8/12/2009-9/30-2021) Desperately missing my angel Mandy (BB's Luv) [7/1/2000 - 9/18/2012]. Always missing Meg the Dalmatian and Ralph Malph the Pekeapoo. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Flysmom Posted July 27, 2009 Share Posted July 27, 2009 Crossing all of our fingers and paws for an uneventful surgery and a speedy recovery! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest BLIsStillFlying Posted July 27, 2009 Share Posted July 27, 2009 (edited) Well, Bradley has had a senior orthopedic veterinarian (a diplomat from France, even) and two senior veterinarian students working on him since 10 a.m. (it's 3:20 p.m. now as the time on my posts is wrong and I'm not sure how to fix it). The vet is very worried that it broke so badly doing something so simple and commonplace, so he's at the moment putting Brad under (*again*) and giving him a CT scan. The X-rays don't show cancer but I guess he doesn't quite believe it. His cortex (or something?) in his bone wasn't as developed or thick as normal (which may be a greyhound thing again?) so I guess it looks worrisome. He won't even discuss surgery until he's convinced Brad doesn't have bone cancer. And he's in Lansing--I'm in Ann Arbor with a very concerned brother-greyhound and a full-time job that means I can't camp out in the orthopedic wing of MSU. My poor baby...we really haven't been apart very long since I was 16. Especially not under circumstances like these... Ugh! Edited July 27, 2009 by BLIsStillFlying Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
carronstar Posted July 27, 2009 Share Posted July 27, 2009 Sending lots of good thoughts and prayers for Bradley. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GreyPoopon Posted July 27, 2009 Share Posted July 27, 2009 Quote Standard Poodle Daisy (12/13) Missing Cora (RL Nevada 5/99-10/09), Piper (Cee Bar Easy 2/99-1/10), Tally (Thunder La La 9/99-3/10), Edie (Daring Reva 9/99-10/12), Dixie (Kiowa Secret Sue 11/01-1/13), Jessie (P's Real Time 11/98-3/13), token boy Graham (Zydeco Dancer 9/00-5/13), Cal (Back Already 12/99-11/13), Betsy (Back Kick Beth 11/98-12/13), Standard Poodles Minnie (1/99-1/14) + Perry (9/98-2/14), Annie (Do Marcia 9/03-10/14), Pink (Miss Pinky Baker 1/02-6/15), Poppy (Cmon Err Not 8/05-1/16), Kat (Jax Candy 5/05-5/17), Ivy (Jax Isis 10/07-7/21), Hildy (Braska Hildy 7/10-12/22), Opal (Jax Opal 7/08-4/23). Toodles (BL Toodles 7/09-4/24) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest trevdog Posted July 27, 2009 Share Posted July 27, 2009 Checking in for an update and sending some more prayers.... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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