Thanks for reaching out about your senior dog's condition. I'm sorry to hear that the splinting hasn't led to healing. In older dogs, bones can take longer to heal due to age-related changes, and sometimes fractures need additional intervention.
There are several potential reasons why the fractures haven't healed. It could be due to inadequate stabilization, infection, or poor blood supply to the area. Underlying conditions like arthritis or bone-related diseases might also complicate recovery. For next steps, it's key to investigate these possibilities further.
I recommend consulting with an orthopedic specialist who might suggest surgery as the next step. Surgery options, such as pinning or plating, can stabilize the fracture more effectively. Post-surgery, physical therapy can aid in recovery.
At home, ensure your dog is resting well in an area that minimizes movement. Provide a balanced diet to support bone health. Watch out for signs like increased pain, swelling, or if your dog stops using the limb altogether, as these can indicate complications.
I'd highly recommend scheduling a video consultation with one of our specialists at Dial A Vet. This way, we can discuss your dog's specific situation more thoroughly and choose the best next steps together.
12y old dog radial/ulnar fractures failed 8w of splinting, next steps?
I’m at a loss and really need some advice. My 12-year-old Labrador, Max, has been through so much already, and I just don’t know what to do next. About two months ago, he suffered fractures to his radial and ulnar bones, and the vet put him in a splint. We were hopeful, but after 8 long weeks, there’s been no improvement. He still limps around, and it's heartbreaking to see him in pain and unable to enjoy his daily walks like he used to. Surgery was mentioned as an option, but at his age, I'm really concerned about his ability to recover. Have any of you dealt with something like this before? What options did you explore? Max is still so full of life, and I just want to make the best decision for him. Any advice or similar experiences would be so appreciated right now.
Answer
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