fourleg.com

Would love to get your advice on this 6 year old lab and his achilles injury. Bracing recommendations and rehab timelines?

Hey Joanna,

I'd go with something a bit more rigid and/or potentially permanent - like the Hero Brace - go to Discounts to get a discount - (or Orthopets). The dog is already developing a bit of a claw foot, so you might as well assume that the other 'portion' of the tendon isn't going to repair. I think a Therapaw tarsoflex would just cause skin breakdown with long term use in a case such as this.

Laurie

The Achilles is a new injury - vet just referred and I’m hoping so seeing him Monday. Are you thinking will need permanent bracing or can we stabilize and rehab?

J

Permanent brace...

Ok. Kimbo owners love their dogs but they love their active dogs. This vet is really worried the owners will just let him run and he will tear completely or damage something else. I’ll look into the hero bracing. I really don’t see many Achilles injuries here... only two complete lacerations due to skiis with repairs.

J

Kimbo, could be a bit of a mess then! I think he'll need some kind of modification, and permanent brace use. And even surgery is a crap shoot for Achilles... Loooooong healing time & rehab. So, you'll likely need to scare them a bit about MANAGING the dog and activity AND expectations!

Laurie

That’s what I was thinking but now I’ve got a consult with my expert behind me. Thanks so much.

J

Owner decided to go ahead with a surgical repair. Thanks for the input Laurie.