Updated June 19, 2017
What did I learn about Hobbes’ dog ACL surgery and recovery? Reflecting, I learned so much. At times it didn’t seem like it. I hope these lessons help you if you ever need them.
- Order “equipment” before surgery. After dog ACL surgery Hobbes needed support while standing and walking. The GingerLead® was perfect. I am so grateful for the client recommendation. It is a padded sling with adjustable handles. It attaches to the dog’s collar or harness so it stays in place. Immediately after dog ACL surgery, we walked Hobbes to the car and used it for at least 6 weeks post surgery. We wish we adjusted it and practiced with Hobbes walking in it before surgery.
- It is okay to cry! I’ve left Hobbes at the vet for dental cleaning and cyst removals. This time was different – he wouldn’t recover in an evening. As I was leaving the vets’ office after dropping him off for dog ACL surgery, the staff asked if I was okay. I said “Yes.” As I got to the car, the tears started to flow. It was different. Then a sob came. I knew Hobbes was in great hands. Still the tears came. I would see him again at 4 pm.
- Prepare a recovery space. Hobbes needed to be in a quiet, confined area
with nothing to jump on. Since he loves his bed in the den off the living room, we added a gate to the entrance. We covered the hardwood floor with a rubber-backed rug. I decided to sleep with him until his stitches were removed. My bed consisted of 2 sofa cushions. Then moved his food dish next to his water dish. We were ready for surgery.
- Don’t panic! As John and I drove Hobbes home, we stopped at a favorite bathroom spot. He didn’t poop. We were concerned. The next day the vet tech reminded me Hobbes had fasted the night before surgery and may not go for a few days. Dah!
- Be creative. Hobbes didn’t wear a cone for first 2 days because he had a
bandage on his leg. The first night with the “party hat,” we didn’t sleep well. The next day John said, “Since he is used to the Body Wrap, can you warp his leg?” The Body Wrap would bring attention to the leg – not the solution. I found a long sleeve tee shirt and cut off the shoulder and sleeve in 1 piece. Then I cut 2 straps from the hem and sewed them on. When with us, he wore the sleeve on his leg. The straps were attached to his harness. He left the stitches alone.
- More information (added June 19, 2017) on Hobbes leg covering. The photo has
a close up of the sleeve. The straps are the hem of the long sleeve tee shirt sewn on by hand. In the above photo, Hobbes is resting in his harness. The strap on his hip goes over to the top of the harness. The strap on the inside of his leg goes under his belly and to the harness. Just try it tied in different positions.
- Stuff happens. A week after dog ACL surgery, I had left Hobbes alone to go to a meeting. He was in his den with the gate up and “party hat” on. All was well, I thought. I got home to find Hobbes standing in the middle of the living room with his tail wagging! I freaked. Did he hurt his leg? Do I need to get it x-rayed? I put him back in the den. Then I went upstairs to change. The bath mat was in the hall. He went upstairs to get a drink from a favorite water dish. Damn! He went up and down the stairs. I was in panic mode. While talking to John for the second time in 5 minutes, I remembered he had a physical therapy appointment in an hour. He was fine and the vet tech giggled at how “smart Hobbes is.” Yes I finally exhaled! I hadn’t secured the gate up correctly!
- Doctor Orders. A friend told Hobbes he needed to follow “doctor orders” of no jumping on furniture or doing stairs without us. He did really well and waited for us. I gave him his medicine and did his exercises with him usually twice a day. When we were both tired, we would skip a session. Many people can only do one session a day. For his great recovery, Hobbes went to Twin Cities Rehab and Sports Medicine and Perpetual Motion Animal Chiropractic. Also I did lots of TTouch® and Healing Touch for Animals®.
- Insurance. When we adopted Hobbes, I didn’t look at pet insurance. Now I am researching it. The challenge is many companies won’t insure the other leg for ACL tears. Yes, 40-60% of dogs will tear the other leg’s ACL. I found one company that will cover the other leg 1 year after he completes his therapy sessions. Thanks to Dr. Nancy Kay, DVM, author of “Speaking for Spot” for these great references – North American Pet Health Insurance Association and Pet Insurance Review (compares cats and dog plans). Here is a 2017 review of pet insurances. Ask questions.
- Hindsight. People ask “How did Hobbes tear his ACL?” We don’t know. Looking back, I realize last winter during walks, he wasn’t sitting at corners. He was slower to sit. He wasn’t running fast as much. He was trotting more. Then suddenly he was carrying his leg up. The vet said it could be a tear. We went to Twin City Animal Rehab and Sports Medicine and tried to avoid surgery. Then Hobbes twisted his knee. He needed surgery. A few days after surgery, Hobbes was back getting laser treatments and soon using the “spa.”
- Check out the American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians website for a rehabilitation veterinarian in your area. I know we are very fortunate to have Twin City Animal Rehab here. Working with people who understand rehabilitation is an added bonus for recover.
Now Hobbes is back 110% after his dog ACL surgery and his leg muscles are in the best shape.
If you have any concerns as you navigate healing with your pet, schedule a free 15-minute phone/Skype consultation with Elaine.
Hi Elaine,
Thank you for this post! It’s so helpful. I wish we would have made the sleeve for Klaus. So creative (good tip!), and it would have saved us from days of an even more depressed dog because of the cone.
I’d add one tip…ask for advice!!! I was so grateful to talk to you a few days before Klaus’ knee surgery. You gave great advice and it felt so nice to know someone else was going through this, too. And since you were a few weeks ahead, could tell me there was a light at the end of the tunnel!!! 🙂
I also cried, too. My husband and I went out for breakfast after dropping Klaus off and it was a bit anxious as we thought about what Klaus was going through. Feel the Feels, it’s a really good tip.
We were SO grateful for the GingerLead. Lifting a 75lbs dog with a towel would never have worked. We also created a space in our living room AND bedroom to limit movement. We called the space in the livingroom “the nest.” It was nice for Klaus to have two places to go between. The bedroom has always been his sleeping spot so he felt more comfortable sleeping night and afternoons there.
We also did lots of brain games. Our friend Jane at A Good Dog Now helped us come up with games (mostly tricks) to work on while Klaus was laying down. He also only ate from a kong and another brain game while he was on rest. Helpful for an active dog who thought he was ready to go out to play well before the Vet gave an OK.
Oh, and “Stuff Happens” is SO TRUE! Recently Klaus was left in “the nest” while I was doing laundry. My husband came home and I heard the scurry of nails on the wood floor. Klaus JUMPED on/over the ottoman to greet his Daddy at the door. Whoops! This happened a few times before we got hip to his tricks and modified the nest to keep him in.
Rehab/Therapy!! We love TC Rehab. They have been doing a great job with Klaus. We chose them partially on your recommendation but partially because they have evening hours-which we need with our work schedules. I am so grateful for their monitoring of Klaus’ recovery. I feel like he’s going to be 110%, like Hobbes, too!
Yes Amanda it is easier to go through leg/knee surgery when you have a team of supporters. I am so excited the tips were helpful. Tell Klaus he will be running and playing soon.
This is some great information, and I appreciate your advice to get any necessary recovery equipment for your dog before the surgery. My dog is going to be having this same surgery, so I’m grateful for this informative post! I’ll definitely be sure to get any necessary equipment for him before I take him in. Thanks again for sharing!
I’m going to be taking my dog, Bunter, in for a surgery in a matter of weeks, so I’m happy I was able to find your post! I really liked your tips to help me, and Bunter, deal with the surgery. One thing you mentioned that I really liked was to create a recovery space for my dog where he can go once the operation is complete. I think that if I do this, Bunter will feel much more comfortable while he heals, and won’t experience so much stress. When he goes in for surgery, I’ll take that time to make up a little recovery area just for him. Thank you for the great tip!
I am sure Bunter will enjoy his recovery place. I started a routine with Hobbes that each morning I would sit with him and do my meditation. It calmed both of us. Have a very successful recovery. Remember to take care of yourself too!
If you can get the GingerLead, I highly recommend it. It saved our backs and make walking Hobbes easier.
Thanks for sharing your experience with your dog getting ACL surgery! My dog is going to be having a similar surgery, and I’m worried about a lot of things, but your article gave me some peace of mind. I’ll definitely do what I can to prepare, but I’ll try not to stress too much or panic.
Lillian, the GingerLead is worth it. Try to get it before surgery, so you can practice using it. Please let me know how I can help you. Remember to exhale and relax.
Hi Elaine,
Thanks for the great article and sharing your experience. My dog tore her ACL about a year ago and so we went through the whole experience ourselves. The sling is a great idea for bigger dogs that need help moving around. Something you (or your readers) may want to check out is using a dog knee brace for after surgery during the recovery process. We got the Ortocanis dog knee brace online and it was truly great. Can’t say what her recovery would have been without it but it’s been over a year and my dog has had her life returned to her. There are lots of different products nowadays on the market that are special for recovering/disabled dogs.. you just have to spend some time and look for them.
Joseph, I’m so sorry you and your dog had to go through ACL surgery. Hobbes is approaching one year after his surgery and doing great. Thanks for the information on the knee brace. Others may find it helpful. I listened to our wonderful animal rehab vets and got wonderful results.
Thank you so very much for taking the time to share your experience and helpful tips. Today my dog Lily a Golden Retriever was diagnosed with a torn ACL and searching the internet i was fortunate to run across your article above. Besides the physical tips the notation I especially enjoyed was the comment about the mediation. I did not even think about that one. I will be sure to include her post surgery.
Carla, Please contact me if you need any help. Sometimes rehab will help. Before we decided on surgery, Hobbes received rehab. Unfortunately he twisted his knee and needed the surgery. I do highly recommend the GingerLead! It saved our backs.
My dog has been limping and crying for a few days now, and so I am going to take him to the vet to see if he tore is ACL. I hope he doesn’t have to have surgery, but if he does then I’ll make sure to prepare a recovery space for him. Maybe I will make the space under the stairs his new recovery space and set it up with his bed, feeding bowls, and a few of his favorite stuffed animals.
Faylinn, Yes please take your dog to the vet to be checked out. Ask your vet about possible rehab also. Be sure your dog’s healing place is in a place where he can see what is going on at home and not feel isolated. Hope he heals quickly.
My baby is going in for surgery tomorrow morning. I know I won’t be able to sleep tonight :*( I’m placing an order on amazon for a soft collar, harness, and nonslip rugs. I’m also researching pet insurance since she is likely to tear her other acl. I have not been able to find an insurance company that will cover that kind of preexisting condition. What company did you end up going with? Thank you!
Liz, I didn’t get insurance after surgery. If you can, rehab or dog physical therapy is well worth it. I think the only pet insurances that covers the other leg is PetPlan. The clock starts running after the last rehab session. Then the dog needs to go 12 months (I think) before another injury.
Please contact me if you need any support. Good luck. Hobbes is doing great!
Elaine, thanks for the tips on the ginger lead! I will order one today. Ressie surgery is wednesday and I am already starting to worry !! Yes ACL and it was mis dignosed twice. Can I have a littler better instructions on the Body wrap? Sounds like I need one. Thank You!
Brenda
Brenda, The GingerLead was the best tool we used during Hobbes recovery. It helps Reggie and it saves your back. I’ll send you information on the body wrap. Remember to exhale. Take care of yourself too. May Reggie and you have an easy recovery.
THANK YOU! Reassurance and resources found here! 2 days til surgery….!
Adele, Please contact me if you have any concerns or need suggestions! Here’s to easy healing!
Thank you for sharing your experience , my yellow lab is scheduled to have surgery on January 24. I am very nervous about the recovery. They said she will be coming home later that day. That scares me. I want to be prepared for her to be comfortable. I really like the long sleeve shirt idea. I hope I can recreate it. Fingers crossed for my Cali.
Marybeth, Hobbes came home the same day. My husband laid with Hobbes in the back of my car. Hobbes was grateful to eat and sleep. Contact me if you need a pep talk. Exhale. And remember it is okay to cry.
Very unexpected surgery for us. We went to the vet on Monday and told us Bear had a torn acl… He was scheduled for surgery on tues. So we have had no planning. Today is day 3 of him being home. Bear is a newfie and loves being outside. He keeps trying to walk on it. I feel like I’m going absolutely crazy at this point because I don’t know what else to do with him.
Emily, I understand your frustration and concerns. Please purchase a GingerLead as soon as possible. You may be able to call the company and get it sent out immediately. I’ll reach out to you by email and we can discuss other ideas. Take care, Elaine
My pup Jaine just had this surgery today. How did your pups go to the bathroom? Did you hold their belly in a sling and support their back legs? I feel like this is going to be our biggest issue.
If you have any additional advice please let me know! She is a rabbitt/squirrel/groundhog chaser too so this is going to be a long 6 weeks.
Kellie, I highly recommend the GingerLead mentioned in the blog. It is a padded sling that support her when she goes to bathroom and for just walking. Actually she won’t feel like doing too much for the first week. Please contact me with any questions by calling, email (Contact page on website), or free 15 minute consult.
Don’t worry Kellie. She won’t be moving around too much in the beginning. Yes do keep her calm and in the house as much as possible for a while. It will pass quickly.
Thank you for your response! She has been very good! I am hoping for a quick recovery!
You are welcome Kellie. Hope she heal quickly. You’ll do great!
My bulldog jumped on the bed two weeks after his ACL . He didn’t cry or anything he was chilling like nothing . Could he have torn it again. I called the vet and she said it was fine just no more jumping but how would she know if she hasn’t seen him.
Alexandra, Did he jump two weeks after his surgery? Does he seem like he is in pain or limping? Remember Hobbes went up and down a flight of stair to get a drink of water a week after his surgery. He was just fine. If you are still concerned I would take him in for your peace of mind. I’m not a vet and can’t tell you. I learned I needed to really be sure any dog gates were secure, and lift Hobbes on and off the bed. Good luck!
I’ve kept an eye on him but today the minute I turned around he jumped . I don’t sense pain and he was limping before the jump . He went to get his stitches removed today and the technician said that him limping was normal !
Hi Elaine,
You said yours was back to 110% post ACL surgery, can I ask how long before you felt that? My 25kg Husky cross had ACL surgery in Sept ’16 and seems to be making good progress. Then in early November when taking her out for a 10 minute walk she yelped and went down on her other leg! Straight to the vet and thankfully not the other ACL but back to rest for another month with suspected pulled muscle. She doesn’t limp on her ‘surgery’ leg but does still sit funny and sometimes there is a little click in the knee. She does not like the physio exercises, never has, just won’t lie still. Not a swimmer either…any ideas on building up the strength/muscle mass again in her back legs?
Thank you
Didn’t mention, she is almost 9 yrs old. Missing her husky craziness!
Hi Fiona. Hobbes is doing great. He is a 40 pound Wheaten with lots of energy when he wants to play. He was 9 when he had his surgery. We did his exercises as often as we could and it really helped his recovery. We used the under water treadmill at the animal rehab center. You may be hearing the clicking of the implant in his knee. Ask your vet about it.
I can’t recommend any specific exercises. Like humans, each dog is different. I would check with a rehab vet if you have one in the area or someone who works with agility dogs. We did lots of range of motion and strengthening exercises. Also we walk a lot too. Hobbes sits funny on his hip sometimes too. Your Husky is only on the beginning of healing. Give yourself and your dog some time. Take care, Elaine
Our Quincy had ACL surgery yesterday. We brought him home yesterday afternoon. He has a stiff bandage on his leg which makes walking very clumsy for him. I was wondering about how many days he will still be in pain and needing pain relieving meds after the surgery. Also we live in a small town and have no therapy places that I know of. Will the exercises we do at home give good results? Quincy is a miniature poodle, 8 1/2 yrs. I cried too and am still depressed.
Hello Elaine!
Thank you for this post, I wish I had found it before my Samoyed had surgery back in October! However I was wondering how long did it take for your dog to get back to 110%? We have done everything possible to make sure my dog recovered properly, however due to the prices we couldn’t afford to also do the therapies, and to be quite honest the vet didn’t say we needed it aside from the exercises she reccomended to do at home. Anyway, the problem is that after 3 1/2 months since the surgery he still limps sometimes and his leg seems stiff, he also has a hard time going up the stairs so he just avoids them now. I’m not sure if it’s because of the cold weather, if it’s supposed to take longer to get completely healed, if he’s just afraid, or if the surgery failed. Should I wait more time while doing his exercises, should I invest on therapy or should I go back to the vet?
Please advice,
Thank you!
Phyllis, Please give Quincy time to heal. Yes he is clumsy with his leg right now. I highly recommend you purchase online The GingerLead I put in the blog. We used it the GingerLead for about 8 weeks helping Hobbes walk. Also it will save your back and make it easier for you. From my experience, do the exercises slowly meaning don’t start immediately. If Quincy shows signs of discomfort, be more gentle and do less. The first week is the hardest — actually the first day is the worst! Remember I’m talking from my experience and I’m not a vet. Please feel free to reach out to me on my Contact Page. Remember to exhale and relax. This will help Quincy.
Hi Elizabeth, Yes the cold weather does affect your dog’s knee. Depending on the technique used, he may have a plate in his knee. When it was extremely cold, Hobbes was uncomfortable. Remembering I’m not a vet, I recommend having a rehab vet check out your dog. The surgeon is great on the surgery and the rehab vet is your friend during recovery. The rehab vet will give you exercises designed your for dog. I saw major improvements when Hobbes had various types of laser to help him heal. I found every moment Hobbes spent in therapy helped him heal. Each dog is an individual and remember Hobbes started therapy right away with laser treatments, then the underwater treadmill, and exercises at home. Also I know finances are important too. Talk with the rehab vet for options. I don’t remember when Hobbes was a 110% better. I’m still noticing how much better he is over 20 months later. Please feel free to reach out to me by the website Contact page.
Thank you. I may be getting back to you as the weeks go by. I will keep reading your helpful material.
Thank you for much for the quick reply, I will definitely look into it! Anything to see our fur babies happy ❤
Best regards,
Elizabeth
I just got home from surgery with my mini Aussie and my heart is breaking for him. How long does the pain last? Thank you for all your great advice. He hates this cone!
Susan, I’m so sorry your mini Aussie is in pain. In the morning if he is still in pain, I would call your vet. Please remember I’m not a vet and each dog is different. Be sure to give him the pain medication on a schedule. If you are right next to him, you may want to try covering his leg with a light sheet or blanket instead of the cone. Look at the sleeve I cut off a shirt and tied on to Hobbes. Please keep me posted. You can contact my on my website. Remember to exhale and stay calm.
Thank you , Samson is scheduled for surgery next week. your post help me!!
https://www.instagram.com/p/BQ–crngNuW/?taken-by=ceasersamson&hl=en
Maria, please let me know how you both are doing. You can contact me through my website.
Do you have any names of insurance companies that will cover the other knee for ACL injury? My lab Marley just had surgery this weekend and I know that there is a 50% chance her suffering the same on her other knee. Thanks
Diane, I think the pet insurance that will cover the other knee is PetPlan. They will cover the second knee, if it happens, one year after the last therapy on the first knee. I decided not to get the insurance. Hobbes had therapy on both knees and is doing very well. We really forced on stabilizing this other knee and building up his entire body. It is 1 year 8 months since he had surgery and he is now 10 1/2. Please stay in touch.
Hi Elaine,
I queried my husky x ACL recovery with you about 6 weeks ago, I thank you for your advice that despite being 5 months in she was really just at the beginning of her recovery. 6 weeks on and I’m seeing a huge change! I’ve removed some of the restrictions I’d put in place at home, whilst still ensuring she had a safe environment while I’m out. She can now get up on the couch and even (albeit briefly) put all her weight on her back legs to greet me when I get home without her legs buckling under her. She’s not back to husky zoomies yet but can gently run in the garden with confidence having steadily rebuilt some of the lost muscle mass. I really believe the key is knowing when to allow more freedom as I suspect she was getting depressed, such a hard balancing act though with such a strong willed dog!! Thanks again for the reassurance, the vets imply all will be good after 3 months but really should prepare owners for the full reality of post ACL surgery recovery.
Fiona, I’m thrilled your husky is ACL recovery is going well. Yes, it does take a while for them to recover from the major surgery. At 6 months, Hobbes was better than he was before surgery. Then I started to realize he had problems the winter before his surgery. Now he is doing great. Just let your husky heal at her own pace. Thank you for the update!
Hi. My Jack Russell, Rocky, just had his ACL surgery 2 weeks ago. I so wish I had read up on what to do before now. My vet is wonderful, but didn’t give me much to go on (no tips on slings, etc.) nor did he give me any exercises to do at home. Could you recommend some exercises for me to do with Rocky? I’m concerned because he is still holding his leg up and not attempting to use it at all. And it just looks so limp. =( I know we are at the beginning of this journey, but anything I can do to make it a shorter one for him the better. Thank you for sharing your story!
Hi Susan, He is still early in the recovery. Since I’m not a vet and don’t do rehab work, I don’t feel comfortable about giving information on exercises. I would contact your vet and ask who in the area can help you. Please feel free to email me at elaine@animalbridges.com or contact me through my website contact page. You can also schedule a free 15 minute phone consult at http://bitly.com/AnimBridHelp Please get in contact with me and I can see how I can help you. I do recommend the GingerLead. You will use it for a long time.
Such a great article! I wrote an article for a local vet clinic after my boy’s CCL repair about what I wish I had known beforehand. If you’re interested in reading it you can see it here: http://leesvilleanimalhospital.com/guest-post-what-i-wish-i-knew-about-my-dogs-acl-surgery-beforehand/
It’s such a scary procedure to put our furkids through, but I’m so glad we did the surgery. It’s been about 6 years now and Jet’s knee is still holding up!
Amy, Thanks for sharing your experience too. I agree I knew the surgery was hard of everyone but I had no idea of what to expect. I’m thrilled your guy is doing so well. I’m happy that Hobbes is doing great 1 3/4 years later. Yes he still goes to Rehab when he needs it. He too never had this other CCL go out. I also agree do rehab if at all possible.
I am so happy I found this site! I’ve been so down in anticipation of my active Bella, 2 year old,60 pound labradoodle’s surgery. She was running 5 days ago, and it happened, the rear leg in the air…trip to the vet..tear of the CCL, event. The xray of her other leg looks great. So a tear in her left ‘knee’. I will be going through this alone, which freaks me out. I have to postpone the surgery a couple of weeks, as I am in the midst of helping my parents move to their senior living condo. I have restricted all of her ‘fun’ activities. No going upstairs to ‘our’ room, no jumping on bed, No more running. In fact she can’t even be in her beloved yard, with being on a leash. I have squirrels, chipmunks, and neighborhood dogs on their walks by our fence. Lots to run up to. The real problem is Bella is used to having run of the house, with a dog door to back yard. She has never gone to the bathroom on a leash.She takes care of business on her own. We are practicing it now…but she isn’t pooping. So now, I am letting her out early early in morn on her own with no people,dogs walking by. But after the operation I won’t be able to do that. She is calm inside. She is scared of baby gates so they work well. After her 5 days of no activities..except for short walks, her leg is better, but it looks unstable. I know she needs and will have the surgery. I am just trying to keep it from getting worse. She lives to run. And play, and I can’t imagine that for 3 months, the whole joy of her life, will be taken away. Do they get over it emotionally? It just seems so long of a time. And then, when can they really run and play with other dogs? when is it safe…sorry for the long pouring of my soul, but i’m sad..and scared. And she hasn’t even had it yet!
Susan, Bella will recover from the surgery. The good news is she is young and will heal fast. The bad news is she is young and wants to be active. Now exhale. Be sure to watch your breathing. To help her to be calm, exhale. About going outside to the bathroom — she will learn. Start asking her to go poop when on leash and praise when she does. Change your thinking to she can and will do it and she will. As I tell everyone, order the GingerLead today. It saved our backs and it will help you control her outside.
I haven’t found that dogs have problems emotionally with the surgery. Hobbes is doing well and would have told me if there was a problem. As time gets closer, tell her she is having a surgery to fix her leg and she will need to let it heal. Please don’t get emotional when you tell her — be matter of fact. If you need help, I can help you. Take care and let me know how it goes.
Thank you Elaine. We have our consultation Tuesday for the TPLO. After my hysteria when I wrote it, and after talking to a Holistic vet, I am becoming more mature about the reality that will happen. Breath…..Bella and I will have to get through it. I’ll keep you posted.
Susan, yes you both will learn a lot about the recovery. Just take care of yourself and get rest. Also, reach out to me if you need more help. Now exhale and breathe! Elaine
Just bought my ginger lead
Be sure to use it before surgery. Set it up and practice with it. It will help your dog before surgery too.
Hi Elaine, thanks for sharing such an informative recovery journey of your dog. My dog was diagnosed with ACL and a suregety is recommended. Except for minor limping, he’s been doing pretty well and able to walk and play (although we have limited it). Looking at the surgery complication and recovery I am debating if we should proceed with a surgery for him, or go for alternative treatment first and see how it goes. Should I ask my vet to refer me to a rehab? Or should I contact TC Rehab for a consultation?
Our 1 year old, 40 pound Australian Cattle Dog mix (rescue), Piper, is having surgery tomorrow. This site has been very helpful. Like others have mentioned, I am so nervous about her recovery, because she is very active and rambunctious. Since her injury about 2 weeks ago, we have limited her AC ivory as much as possible. Would love to know more about the brain games and activities that we can use with Piper while she is recovering.
Hi Eva, My suggestion is to call Twin Cities Animal Rehab immediately and make an appointment. They will help you figure out if rehab can help before surgery. I know it does help with a faster recover. We did rehab with Hobbes (cold laser) for several months until he actually tore his ACL. Both Dr. Julia and Dr. Amy are fantastic. Please tell them I recommended you see them. Please let me know how you do!
Hi Mindy, Good luck with the surgery and recovery. My dogs haven’t ever been great with the dog puzzles. I know there are lots of great ones out there. Look for some reviews to help you.
Depending where you live, I highly recommend going to an rehab vet in your area. Check out American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians website for a rehab vet in your area http://rehabvets.org/directory.lasso Please keep me posted. Now exhale and relax.
Eva, my dog, Bella a 2 year old tall, thin, but 60 pounds, labradoodle, tore her CCL(aka ACL) almost 2 weeks ago. She held her rear leg up, after running, but soon thereafter she used the leg, while limping. I took her to vet, who xrayed, and recommended the TPLO, due to her size and activity level and age. I researched and researched…and looked at all options from conservative management/no surgery, to any other the lesser surgeries. I drove myself crazy, as I didn’t want to do such a painful invasive surgery on my baby. I have curtailed all her fun, for now, but she came running with a ball into the kitchen, and slipped, and up went the leg again. Then, she was using it again. I talked to a Holistic, chiropractic Vet. I was sure she would say, No, don’t do surgery, we’ll heal her with rehab, laser, PT, herbs’. She said I should do the TPLO surgery. WE have a fantasitic surgical center here in Richmond, VA, and those surgeons only do that surgery..as they see the lesser ones, fail. Especially for young, active, larger dog. So, I have finally listened to all, and Bella will have surgery in a few weeks. I have to wait due to family commitments,travel for my elderly parents. Vet said it is fine to wait. I still need to not let her RUN, chase, jump, for now, and then during the 8 week recovery period. The whole thing scares me, but I know, now, it is the only solution for Bella. The vet,surgeon was so optimistic, and successful..his own dog just recently had it. So, I’ll be posting my adventure with it soon. Good luck to you. And I am so thankful for Elain’s website!!
Susan, I’m so happy you found great resources. I’m thrilled you have a fantastic surgical center in Richmond. Do order the GingerHarness now — We loved the harness. Especially with Bella’s size, it will save your back. Please reach out if you need any help or suggestions. I highly recommend doing rehab before and after surgery. It made the world of difference in Hobbes recovery. He is doing great!
Hi Elaine. I ordered the GingerHarness. Got it in the mail this afternoon. But this morning,as i was helping her out of car, I pulled a back muscle. I’m in bad pain now!
(She really doesn’t need the help so much..yet…she is just in the tear phase, but i am curtailing all jumping, etc, before the surgery. Don’t want her to rupture the tearing ACL). So now I need to heal soon so i can take care of her after her surgery…ARGH.
Take care of yourself now!
Boy did I need this article today. We are on day 8 of recovery and all I have done is cry and feel like my life is totally different. We have one spot that just keeps seeping and that has been a pain. I am going to try the sleeve trick. I tried the inflatable cone, but he can still get to it! The thing that scares me is even in his small recovery area he gets up and stands and walks in that small area. He is a 125 pound lab and I don’t know how to prevent it. He also got out of his area and walked to the kitchen because he heard the ice maker! Thank you so much!
Lisa, please exhale. Remember Hobbes went up and down a full flight of stairs about a week after surgery. As long as he is confined, he will be okay. If it hurts, he probably won’t stand on it. Take care. Soon this will behind you.
Thanks again for this site. I gave it a month, before having the surgery done, due to other obligations with my parents move, and my back going out, and some people saying, maybe wait and see if it ‘heals’. Well, it has’t healed, and Bella the 2 year old 60 pound, tall, think labradoodle will have her surgery Monday. Because I can now tell she is in pain, I amlooking forward to getting the operation over with, and starting on the real recovery. WE already have limited her activities to 0,and surgery proofed the house. I still can get very upset when I think of my baby having that pain inflicted apon her, but today I realized she is in pain right now. unless she sees a chipmunk, and my small yard has 100s of them…I bought a sound making thing, that swears it will deter them, we’ll see,. I have a sleeve ready for her, and a ginger lead. I have already moved to the 1st floor bedroom, and have my mattress on the floor. I have baby gateseverywhere, and for at least the 1st week she will be confined to only one room. I’m ready…I pray it goes well. I’ll post after Tuesday when I get her…..
Susan, you are ready and doing a great job getting ready. Monday will be a long day. Rest up this weekend. Please reach out to me. I’m here to help you. Elaine
Oh and one other thing I did, I live where the mail is deliveried via a mail slot in my door. Even when I baby gate the area around the front door, it still gets her running. So, I have put down non skid rugs, AND I closed off the mail slot, with a note, and put a temporary mail box on my front step. Anything to keep Bella from moving too quickly and risky hurting herself….and a new dog bed for the den, which is where she will be quarantined..with deterrents on the sofa. She minds barriers. and no access at first to the sun room, where her other dog bed is, for a week or so…too stimulating for her watching the world go by…and the squirrels and chipmunks. Ok..I’m ready……
Susan, we also have a mail slot. I purchased 1/4 inch foam strip with a sticky backing. It really quiets the flap closing and Hobbes rarely hears it! Your local hardware store will have the tape.
Hi Elaine. The surgeon just called. Bella’s surgery went well. I’ll pick her up tomorrow. BUT the ACL was completely torn. And both meniscus were torn and folded back on themselves, wedged between the bones, giving her some stability. He has never seen both torn. She has no arthritis, so I got her in before more damage was done. She never cried or showed pain in last month…yes, she hobbled and limped, and then the next day she would hardly limp. He said she had to be in A LOT of pain. Very stoic, Bella. So our long recovery starts tomorrow..though I’ve been doing no activities for a month now. She’s dying to RUN…but will be a few months. Stay tuned…
,
Hi Susan, Try to rest up tonight. It is good that they are watching her tonight. Don’t worry — she won’t feel like running for a little while. If possible try to find a rehab vet. I’m very grateful the our rehab vet and all their help. Please reach out is you need to talk to someone. Take care!
I am beside myself. My dog needs ACL surgery and I need to travel for 5 days, 2 weeks after the surgery. I found someone to watch him if I can’t get out of this trip. Does anyone know how long the stitches stay in? How long will there be an open wound? That is a question my caretaker is asking. I have a perfect room for them to stay in together. I am just sick thinking about having to leave him.
Sue, you’ll be fine. The leg is wrapped in a bandage and the stitches were covered from his toes to his thigh. I think the stitches were removed 10-14 days. Ask your vet to be sure. Please reach out if you need support.
Hi Sue, I’m sure different surgeons do different things. Bella had her TPLO yesterday. I picked her up today. She has no external stitches, and therefore no bandage. The ecollar they gave her seems to be big enough for a giant great Dane, and it freaks her out. She is a lean 60 pound labradoodle. I made her a sleeve for her leg, which isn’t staying on, so ordered one from Amazon, do come in 2 days. So far she’s not licking, but she’s not really her frisky self yet. I won’t leave her alone until I put that sleeve on her. She is using,walking on her leg. Amazing. The whole leg is shaved and incision a bit swollen, but looks good. Good luck.
Thanks for sharing your experience. Susan. You are correct — Hobbes had a different surgery. Ask the surgeon about how your do will come home. Take care.
Thanks for all of the great information! Ciara will need ACL surgery soon. I just ordered a gingerlead which will help before and after surgery. Would you please send me some more information about how you made the sleeve out of a t shirt. I am especially wondering how you secured the “sleeve” to the halter and how you used two straps. Thanks.
Nancy, you are welcome. I will send you information about the sleeve I made. And then I’ll add it to the blog. Please keep me posted about Clara’s recovery. Take care.
My guy, Dexter, will have his CCL surgery on the 20th of this month. He’s a 20# poodle mix that doesn’t ever walk anywhere, he RUNS! He tore his CCL a couple weeks ago & we couldn’t schedule surgery until now. He’s hopping along pretty well but I fret about the other leg going. :-O We have already limited his activities to very short leash walks but he literally races to get to the front door for walks or to go get a toy. I can’t imagine keeping him calm for weeks post-op!! I’m not too worried about the actual surgery but I’m VERY worried about recovery!!
I’m interested in the sleeve creation you came up with, I’m going to look for it on the blog when I finish this! Brilliant!
I just wanted to say it’s been cathartic to read what all of you with this experience under your belts have had to say, thanks for being supportive for those of us (& our fur babies) about to embark on this journey!
Beth, Please let me know how you and Dexter do with the surgery. Order the GingerLead as soon as you can. The owner of the company is very helpful. It saved our backs and helped everyone’s attitudes. Get it now so you can start using it before surgery. Remember to exhale! This week is Hobbes 2 year anniversary of his surgery. He is doing great!
Hi this is Susan again, with the 60 pond labradoodle, Bella. Its been 7 weeks now. Her sedated xray is next week to see if bone has healed. She still limps int he house, but not on a walk. Her walks are still limited, and I was not told to do PT, yet. I am assuming after the xray we will be told of PT options, and I am hoping to get her to a pool where they do PT. Her injury was severe..A total rupture and tear of both meniscus. Something the vet had not seen. BUT she never acted like she was in pain. Just a limp. The vet was amazed. But because of the severity, it could be why he hadn’t already put her into PT. Just short walks. She is a hyper and used to have a lot of fun dog playing activities. All has changed, of course, for now. But when she gets WhACKY, and runs in house, or spins, I give her a 1/2 of a trazodone. Oh, also the 1st week, I never put that HUGE cone on her, or needed to crate her. BUT, I cut a sleeve from a tshirt and tiedit via rope, string, to her back. It worked for her. It might not work for a more hyper dog, or one who loves to chew. Thanks Elaine for the idea..and I did mine in a more simple way..as it worked. The cone would have scared her.
i am scared to death of the other leg having the same issue. I want her to get back into playing with dogs and being off leash in the yard and chasing squirrels…but I will be very nervous.
Hi Susan! I’m thrilled Bella is doing so well. I updated the blog and you may want to check out information on rehab vets and share it with your vet. Please focus on her healing and that her other leg is be okay. Rehab including walks and some exercises with help both legs. I think Bella will enjoy Tellington TTouch Ear Slides. Here is a video I made with Hobbes and his BFF, Sophie — http://bitly.com/AnimBridEarSlides. Please keep me posted on Bella’s progress.
Thanks sooooooooooooo much. I am working on the sleeve right now. Jazzy had surgery last Saturday and is ready to go with 2 more months of no jumping. I have her on a leash and I am home with her most of the time. My husband stays with her when I go out. She is not a happy camper. We go see the vet next week. It’s hot today and so the sleeve will be much better than the inflatable collar we got. Keep shining brightly. This post was such a gift. I am looking into water therapy and excited to hear that your dog made a great recovery.
We are on Week 9 with our yellow lab. X-rays showed last week that it had fused well but fluid on the good leg which the chance of it tearing as well is good. They have us doing walks from week 9-16 and nothing outside off the leash until then. I feel like I will be a nervous wreck forever. Max was a dog who played fetch like 8 times a day so it is heartbreak watching him not have the fun he used to.
Caroline, I’m thrilled the sleeve is working out. When Hobbes was in eye sight, I would take off the sleeve. It depends how much Jazzy goes after stuff. I found I could put a light cotton towel on his leg and he would leave it. Please keep me posted.
Susan, You are getting through the healing process. Focus on Max healing. Also stay positive the other leg will be just fine. Please let me know how you are doing.
Thank you Elaine for the ear slide. I’ll be using that in the Vet’s office on Monday morning..when i have to drop her off, for her sedated xray. She is nervous with strangers..and is terrified at the vet, and this experience just reinforced her terror! For those using the sleeve, it worked GREAT for Bella. But..she had no external stitched or staples, and is not a ‘licker’. I have read stories of other dogs, who just ‘laughed; and ripped off the sleeve and pulled out staples. So…know your dog. Luckily there was no reason so subject scared Bella to a GIANT collar. Nor did she need crating. though she is high energy, she obeys boundaries…(unlike my prior labradoodle). This whole ordeal was better than I thought it would be, but has still been daunting..and I get weepy when I think of all she had to give up. She was so used to FUN..and PLAY..and other dogs…
Susan, Start using the Ear Slides now. Just a few minutes at a time when you think of it. It will help her a lot. Also show the vet tech and ask them to do it too. Everyone will be happier. Also be sure to exhale as you put her in the car, get her out of the car, walk into the clinic, etc. She may be picking up some of your stress too. Please keep me posted!
Charlie is 4 weeks post-op from his ACL surgery. He was a 105 lb mix now he is a 92 lb and on his way, doctor’s order, on begin an 85 pound happy pup. He is a rescue dog, approx 8 yrs young. Cant see him losing much more but he did get his shape back. Kids are under orders not to feed him anything and we switched his food to Science Diet which he loves. He hates being cooped up but only started toe touching and bearing weight the last week so he’s been restricted to our bedroom which we doggy proofed. He had a lot of trouble with the antibiotic and pain meds after surgery. He pooped blood, it was awful and so scary. We had him on chicken and rice for a week and changed the meds up which helped. We just took one of the seats out in our mini-van and we put his bed in their and go on a daily ride. He loves rides and walks and since we cut walks out, he started to just stand in the room and bark this past week. We finally figured out, he was just stir-crazy so we started the rides. We lift him to and from the van and he sits for the first 5 minutes and then lays down. We have someone in the next seat holding the leash so he cant jump if he wanted to. These rides calm him down and gives him back the freedom he was missing. We stay local on the country roads with no lights, and drive slow and just let him see the sights. He comes home and then is happy to stay confined to the room and rest in his bed. He may be recovering slower due to his size and there is concern that he may have some arthritis in his hip. Right now, he is walking and very happy. We moved the love seat out and are still sitting on bed bags and will probably do this for another month or two. I am also scared for him to get hurt again. We copied the idea of the sleeve and made one and IT was a game-changer. Thanks for the idea. Thanks for all the posts. I didn’t feel so alone reading them when I felt like crying.
So glad I found this post my dog is 8 days from tplo surgery and he bolted after coming in from outside and went up 9 stairs cause he didn’t want to be crated again. I’ve been Freaking out thinking he could of done something to his leg. This has been a nightmare these stitches can’t come out soon enough. Could you please give me the website to the pet insurance you were talking about ? I have fear if this happens again I won’t be able to afford this surgery again. Thanks for the post.
Stacey, I just updated the blog with a 2017 review of pet insurance. Two years ago the only insurance that would cover the other leg was PetPlan with requirements. The second leg was covered ONLY if it had been a year since the first leg had completed treatment including rehabilitation. You must ask if they will cover the second leg and if it is considered pre-existing. Now exhale! Focus on both legs will be fine. Remember 40-60 percent of the second leg are problem free! Check for a rehab vet in your area to help make both legs as possible.
Also consider putting your dog is a small room without furniture. Be sure the dog can see the world too. Also please contact me for a free 15 minute consult at http://bitly.com/AnimBridHelp.
Sue, You are doing a great job working with Charlie. Yes, there are challenges with the surgery. Remember it will pass and you will be happy you did the surgery. I really like the car rides especially since Charlie is secure in the car. Yes the medications can cause problems. I’m glad you are past that. Keep up the great work!
Hi Stacey, Another thought to help your dog calm down is these wonderful ear slides. This video shows me giving ear slides to Hobbes and his BFF, Sophie. Check it out http://bitly.com/AnimBridEarSlides. Please exhale. This will all pass quickly!
Hi..I am on day 4 with my 36kg Yellow Lab Daisy. Nothing can prepare you for the reality of the post operative care. My vet provided the walking sling which works great. I have crates and pens organized to limit her movement. Daisy loves her crates..she will happily sleep in them during the day of her own accord. Well..she fusses continuously in the crates but will happily sleep in the lounge room on lead.She refuses to toilet until she absolutely has no choice..then the no 2 explodes. She refuses all offerings of food..even ice cream..which is tough as her meds need to be given with food. She won’t drink much, just a few sips. She isn’t fussing with the leg at all but that could change. Have flexible collar ready. Thank goodness we are at the vets tomorrow to have the dressing off and pain patch removed.
So happy I found this great resource! My dog Lola is 4 years old and having ACL surgery on Thursday. I am so scared for her, I think I have educated myself enough to make sure I have everything on hand, gentle lead, crate all ready for her, etc. But I am a wreck! What are the first few days home going to be like? I am so worried that she will be in pain. I managed to raise 3 boys so you would think I would have thick skin, but this is killing me!
Anne, You are over the hardest part. Now exhale when she gets fussy. Also you may want to look at the blog for the sleeve cover for her leg. Also try these TTouch Ear Slides — this is a video I made. http://bitly.com/AnimBridEarSlides . The ear slides will help calm both of you. Talk to your vet about giving her the pills. I found 2 chunks of meat — one with the pill and the other as a quick chaser so she eats both. Please let me know how you are doing!
Anne, the hardest part is over. Now exhale and realize you are doing a great job with Daisy. See if you can walk her to a favorite bathroom spot and let her smell. Or when she does go, save a piece and put it on the ground to encourage her. Also to calm both of you, try the TTouch Ear Slides http://bitly.com/AnimBridEarSlides. Also I use two pieces of meat to get a pill down. The first one has the pill hidden in it and the second one give as she is chewing the first one. Please let me know how you are doing.
Carol, You will do a great job with Lola. The first few days she will be tired and very willing to rest. The vets are great on giving you the right medicine for pain. Follow their directions and cal them if you have any concerns. I recommend ordering the GingerLead mentioned in the blog. It saved our backs and made walking Hobbes so much easier. You will use it for several weeks if not a month or more. Now for both of you, this is the same tip I gave Anne — do the TTouch Ear Slides. Here is my video http://bitty.com/AnimBridEarSlides . Please let me know how you are doing.
Hi Elaine, Bella had her 8 week sedated x ray today. The bones are totally healed, and the screws and steel plate look great. As I expected though, due to the severity of her total rupture and both meniscus tears, she is still NOT allowed off leash in our yard. She is allowed to do whatever she wants, inside. Stairs, bed, sofa, whatever she was used to doing. Also, we can do as long of walks as we want. No restrictions.The Vet wants her to build up muscle mass in the leg, before she goes HOG WILD outside, as she would..a 2 year old labradoodle, is hyper with energy.. She is so good and calm right now, as she is still groggy from the anesthesia. Because of that, I am not allowing her upstairs, today, but tomorrow..woo hoo, we’ll be back in our real bedroom, upstairs. No longer on a mattress on the floor, in the guest room. So, in 4 weeks, if all still goes well, she will be released to do anything she did before, outside. I am also getting her into a Swimming PT program, soon. So…the 3 months (1 month prior to surgery, with total restrictions, and 8 weeks post surgery, have gone by, relatively fast, and Bella never had any problems (except for insane bursts of energy..referred to as Zoomies, by some). Just one more month, before I can let her out on her own to go to the bathroom..Yay. Thanks again for this site. Oh, and she shows no sign of arthritis, even with the severity of her injury. YAY..The lab-ness of her though, does put her into the 50% chance of it happening to other leg, but so far the other leg is fine.(I wish the poodle-ness would take over the probability, as then it would be 30%)
Wonderful news Susan. The swimming lessons will wear her out. I know the joy of sleeping in your bed again. Keep up the great work.
Hi elaine, this morning after I took his leash off him in the living room where I have his cage so he don’t feel left out he tried to jump on the couch I yelled no but he did gain a little air time trying I’m so worried and I don’t want to call the vet because I’ve called them for so many other things. I’m hoping he didn’t Injure his leg. He’s also giving me a hard time on his PROM exercise and I’m not really able to do them cause he raises his leg once on his side and makes it really stiff so I can’t move it I did schedule one session with a therapist but I cant do that all the time for it’s pretty pricey.
Hi Stacey, Remember my adventure of Hobbes escaping his area and going upstairs for water. He also came down the stairs! It was a week after surgery and he was fine. I’m not familiar with the PROM exercise. Good idea to check with the therapist and build your confidence. The therapist may give you a easy tip to help you. I know Hobbes’ team was great. Now exhale and relax. You are doing a great job!
Hi Elaine, I wrote yesterday saying my dog tried to jump on the couch and now today he is back to holding his leg up and won’t put it down. He’s 2 wks out from surgery I’m afraid he did damage. I’m beyond stressed at this point trying to keep him calm is near impossible. I just can’t believe this all happened and he’s back to this. I’m scared if he did mess it up I won’t be able to get him fixed again I’ve already spent 5000.00 figures this always happens on the weekend.
Hi Stacey, Okay exhale and focus on your breathing. If you are calmer your dog will be calmer. I recommend keeping him calm and maybe give him a pain pill to settle him down. Also try these ear slides — they will help both of you. http://bitly.com/AnimBridEarSlides The video is me doing ear slides on Hobbes and his BFF, Sophie. I’m going to contact you by your email and may we can talk. For sure get him into your vet on Monday. Does he look like he is in stress — panting, whimpering? If so take him into emergency care this weekend. Really focus on relaxing and telling what you want — please sit or lie by me rather than don’t jump, etc. Please stay in touch.
Hi Stacey, I’m praying for you both. My dog is healing slowly after 6 weeks of surgery and still sometimes will lift his leg when he drinks from his bowl. I catch my breath when he does, I understand how you feel. I wouldn’t worry too much because it’s probably normal to their individual healing and this could be a coincidence. I think if he did true damage, he would be showing signs of real pain and discomfort. I agree, I would take him in on Monday and to the ER if you think it is more serious. I have been doing the ear slides which really do help. He’s lived with us for 7 years coming and going with a dog-door into the yard, now he is confirmed to one room. It’s getting easier; we still leash walk him out to do his business but he’s gotten used to the restriction.
Thanks Sue for your support and experience. I’m glad the ear slides are helping!
A lovely read! My Meagan is at the end of week one post op. She’s doing well but the cone has battle scars from bumping into walls etc. I’m going to try your sleeve idea. So happy to read that I’m not the only one napping with my sweet pooch!
Hi Kathy, I’m glad Meagan is healing well. Yes, the “party hat” does get a beating. You may want to try the sleeve shown in the blog. I found it was easier on Hobbes. He is also very good at leaving stitches alone when I tell him. May Meagan heal quickly and safely.
Thanks Sue, sending prayers your way also. Petey will be 3 weeks out from his TPLO surgery and trying to keep him calm has been a real chore. He’s already went upstairs and crawled under the bed after I let him out of his cage in the morning and I couldn’t get him out. Then he tried to jump on the couch and I yelled no and he slid down the front of the couch so it’s been really stressful here. Trying to keep a rat terrier calm when I have another dog roaming free is not easy. This will be a experience I will never soon forget.
Stacey, Remember to exhale and breathe!
Thanks for these tips! Our dog just had the surgery yesterday. She looks so sad with the cone on 🙁
Kellie, Try the leg covering from a long sleeve tee shirt. It worked wonders with Hobbes. Fortunately, he also left his leg alone when I placed a tea towel over it. Of course I stayed in eye sight. Please keep in touch how your and your dog are doing.
Yea I will definitely try that. Good idea! Our journey has just begun but hopefully she will be ok!
Thanks agian
Kellie, remember to exhale and enjoy this time with her! You’ll do great.
Hi Elaine,
We take in our Gimli an 80 lb shepherd/retriever cross for ACL surgery tomorrow and yes I am nervous!!! We have too dogs who love to play so Gimli has been leashed in the house for a few weeeks much to his dismay. We did get a ramp for the car, he will get lasher treatments after and is booked to start some water treadmill treatments in a couple of weeks. I am so worried about the recovery road ahead of us – in the midst of this my hubby has terminal cancer so plate is kind of full!!! Will see if our vet has the leash to help us walk him. Last night sleeping in my bed for awhile as Gimli and I will sleeping on the main floor for awhile till he can do the stairs again what are the ear slides you have mentioned?? Your article does help give me hope!!!!
Hi Jeanne,
You do have a lot on your plate. I’m so sorry about your husband. You are doing everything right to help Gimli! Remember to exhale and relax. I highly recommend you call and order the GingerLead today! It helped us and Hobbes (44 pounds) in walking him. You will save your back too. The owner of the company is wonderful. The lead is adjustable to your height. It was our number one tool! Great on all the rehab work lined up. The TTouch Ear Slides will calm both of you. Here is my video http://bitly.com/AnimBridEarSlides with Hobbes. Take care and reach out if you need help. You can also contact me by my website.
Our vet says the surgery went well yesterday and Gimli came home with us last night. Right away our second dog, Pippin was very curious as to what was happening with Gimli. We did use your shirt idea to keep Gimli from licking the incision and that works so much better than the cone to help him relax. I have also been using your ear slide technique. Thanks for the ideas. We just got a belly belt from our vet to help him with the few steps to get outside and glad we have that as he sure doesn’t want to use that leg yet. First night at home sleep was broken up with some quiet whining a few times, but he did go pee and he has eaten and drank a little. I feel bad for him but have to keep telling myself that I did this for his good and he will heal. Thanks for your advice and encouragement.
Jeanne, I’m glad surgery went well. Yes the first night is exhausting. It will get better. Keep focusing on Gimli’s healing. Your other dog will be curious and also be watchful of him. Just remember he is on the path of healing! Remember to exhale if you are getting concerned.
Lola is 2 weeks post op tomorrow! She has done well and she gets her personality and energy back little by little. But she has a had a few days where she is a little out of sorts!? Just tired, still eating and drinking but honestly she just looks depressed! We go to follow up appt tomorrow but can’t help but to worry. I don’t think she is in pain but maybe i am wrong!?
Carol, I so glad Lola is doing well. You are over the hardest part. If she was in pain, you would see it — panting, arched back, and other signs unless she is a stoic dog. I’m sure you will hear great news with the follow up appointment today. Now you will start the exercises with her. Go slow and just do what the vet tells you. Do you have a rehab vet in the area?
Elaine,
You have no idea what a relief it was when I found this article. After a month of my 2 year old newf tundra limping, I did some research and came to the conclusion that she might have an acl tear. I took her in this morning and well, I was right. 400$ later xrays and anti inflammatory meds I was sent home with a list of supplements she needed to go on including glucosamine,chondritin, and fish oil. I’m 23 and she is basically my life and my child. I was very thankful to see that you are from mlps area, I am too. I also began the search for insurance and got beyond overwhelmed. I really could use some help with the support, supplements, insurance, and well basically everything. My family has always had small dogs and never had this issue before.
Hi Dani, I’m so glad you found the blog. We have great resources in the Twin Cities. Please sign up for a 15 minute free consult and I can give you some more ideas http://bitly.com/AnimBridHelp. You and your dog will get through this.
Hi again,
So Lola did great at her 2 week post op check up! BUT…she has 2 nodules that are protruding pretty good on the knee, I took a photo and sent it to the surgeon. They want to see her, any idea of what it could be? So worried, she has not done any jumping or anything, we help her up and down the stairs and take for short walks so I can not imagine what could have happened? Curious for your thoughts??
Hi Carol, I really don’t have any ideas. Your surgeon will give you the best information. Until then, try to exhale and wait for their response. Hobbes’ knee feels different to touch because of the plate. His curly hair covers everything. I’m sure the surgeon will give you an answer soon. Please let me know what you learn.
Which procedure did your dog have? Mine is having a TTA procedure done.
Hi Jeff, It’s been over 2 years since Hobbes had TTA surgery. He has a plate on his knee. As I said in the blog, I highly recommend getting the GingerLead before surgery so you can adjust it and both of you are comfortable with it. It saved our backs. I’m here to help you with the recovery. Also check out the link for the rehab vet list. It really helped with Hobbes recovery. He will be 11 in September and acts like a young dog again.
Hi
What surgery did Hobbes exactly have?
My Border Collie (Sky) just totally ruptured her cruciate ligament (vet wrote “COMPLETE rupture”)
She is booked in for a Wedge Osteotomy this Wednesday coming, hardest part will be getting her to sleep in the living room as for most of her life she has slept in the bedroom with us, unfortunately the bedroom is upstairs and carrying a 50+ lb dog would be a nightmare and don’t want to risk her jumping on the bed.
Urgh this is really stressfull…to a degree I just wish I could get this over and done with already…
Hi John, Hobbes had TTA surgery (has a small plate in knee). I let the surgeon decided what was best and it worked great. We used the GingerLead for a month or more. It helped on walks and doing stairs when approved by the rehab vet. I kept a harness on him all the time as a way to help him around the house.
The first 10 days I slept with him in a corner of living room. This area had a dog gate as needed. Then we moved upstairs. I’m a light sleeper so this worked. I put a short leash (3 feet) on him and around my wrist. When he got up or moved, I woke up. Then I put him on the floor on his bed. I then used a slightly longer leash to tie him to furniture so he could get to water and NOT the bed. Or you can put your mattress on the floor for a while.
Remember to exhale to calm yourself and your dog. Your dog will love the Tellington TTouch Ear Slides http://bitly.com/AnimBridEarSlides.
Now just enjoy the quiet time with your dog as he recovers. Let us know how you do.
Hi All,
So we are about 6 weeks into recovery! Lola had TPLO surgery, we have had a small set back with infection in the incision, but seems to be healing up nicely. My concern is her personality and demeanor has changed so much, she is only 4 years old and was such an active pup! Do you think she just knows her limitations? But just seems to be so somber all the time. I try to play at her level of ability at this point, and keep her as active as possible. Also, whats the school of thought on stairs at this point? We are carrying her 50 lbs. and I bought the ginger lift, but she is not having it! Just worried we lost our fun loving puppy!
Hi Carol, I’d check with your vet about stairs. Hobbes started using the stairs totally supervised and supported with the Gingerlead after his stitches were out. She can not do the stairs alone.
Is Lola still on pain pills and other medication. If so that can cause her to mellow out and slow down. I know it took a while for Hobbes to be more alive. She had a huge surgery and probably doesn’t understand what happened and why. I would recommend an animal communication and I can help you with that. You can use the contact form on the website or sign up for a 15 minute free consult. We can talk how to help her.
My Golden Retriever, Cole, had TPLO surgery on Wednesday. Last night (Saturday) while I stepped away long enough to take a shower, he must have eaten his bandage. I can’t find it anywhere. It’s Labor Day weekend, of course, so my vet office is closed. This is only Day 4 of post-op recovery and he only eats if I coax him with canned food and hasn’t drank water from his bowl. His liquid is chicken broth and water I mix with his food. If he hasn’t pooped it out by Tuesday, I’ll contact them. Any thoughts or advice, in the meantime, would be genuinely appreciated.
Mary, I’m am sorry Cole ate his bandage. I am NOT a veterinarian and this is only my opinion. If Cole was my dog, I would call the local emergency clinic or take him in immediately. Since you can not find the bandage, it is better to take him into the emergency clinic and have him checked. If there is a blockage, it would mean another surgery. I don’t have any other recommendations. your vet must have an emergency clinic listed on their phone. I don’t mean to scare you. I’m concerned he isn’t drinking either. Please keep me posted.
Hi Elaine, thanks for your post! We don’t know for sure what is going on with our pup but have an ortho consult on Monday. Did your vet diagnose Hobbes with an x-ray or was an MRI does to confirm the ACL tear? Our vet did an x-ray and said the knee area looked fine but I’m skeptical based on his symptoms (hence the ortho).
Hi Kathy, I’m really sorry to hear about your pup’s leg. Hobbes had an x-ray followed up by ultrasound. He didn’t have an MRI. The rehab vet did an ultrasound and confirmed my thoughts it was time to do surgery. We worked several months with the rehab vet with exercises and cold laser. Did you see the note about rehab vets? Check out the list and see if there is one in your area. Please keep me posted. Good luck!
Or beagle, Maggie, just had her ACL repair yesterday. We were going in to a consult and ended up doing same day surgery, so we didn’t have any time to prepare. How long was before your dog was back to 110%? Right now it feels like we have a very long road ahead of us.
Hi Elaine,
So glad I found your blog. My 31/2 year old Doberman was just diagnosed with a torn ACL. Won’t know definitely till
Wed, when he has the X-rays and exam under sedation. My husband and I were so discouraged when we left the vets office because he said it would take an entire year for recovery, all on leash, but with extended walks, when time was right. Then he said in more then 70 percent of cases, the other knee will blow. We have had Dobermans for 50 years, been through many illnesses, etc., but never this and not two years out of a dogs life and ours, as we are not youngsters. We love this guy with all our hearts, but was contemplating saying goodbye with knowing we had to totally alter our life for one year. The vets words, not mine. We spend the winter months in Florida, and Northern Michigan the other 6 months. My breeder suggests I get a second opinion and I am going to call my Michigan vet the first part of the week. Everything I read on your blog, the recovery was more like 12-16 weeks, and depending on the severity of the injury, maybe longer off leash outside. I have already looked up the Ginger Lead, and plan to order it. Thanks for listening.
Sarah, the hardest weeks are the first 2 weeks. The next 8 weeks there are continual improvements. I feel using a rehab vet really sped up Hobbes healing. For sure Hobbes was a 110% better in a year. Remember Hobbes was 9 years old when he had his surgery. Please ask me any questions or contact me through my website. I want to help you and Maggie have an easier recovery. For sure, order the GingerHarness — it saved our backs. I hooked it to Hobbes harness that he wore 24 hours a day for the first several weeks.
Sharon, Hobbes was 9 years old when he had his surgery. You have a youngster! I would RUN and find another vet with a better attitude. Also check the blog for the rehab vets. Yes the first 2 weeks are hard. With my lessons learned you are way ahead of the game than I was. Also you can always reach out to me through my website for help.
I was told 40-60% of dogs have problems with the other leg. Hobbes is 2 1/2 years since surgery and doing well. We fortunately have a fantastic rehab vet. See if you can find one — they are worth the cost. Also Hobbes was checked by a rehab vet and we did lots of stuff before his surgery. Then he twisted his knee and we knew it was time for surgery. His was diagnosed by ultrasound without drug. Please call around and talk to other vets. I’m sure you will find one who is more positive. Exhale. Please talk to me before you even think of euthanasia for your dog! You can do this!
I cannot begin to thank you, Elaine, for the gift you’ve provided by sharing your experience. I have an almost 2 year old male Dane. Dodo was diagnosed with a torn CCL last week. We have scheduled the repair for this upcoming week.
I’ve just spent the last several hours terrifying myself with “the Google.” I am in the human medicine profession (RN) so I decided to delve into scholarly veterinary articles about the procedure. I do not recommend this to anyone.
My purpose was to obtain as much information as I could. Comprehending specific processes and rationale beforehand typically provides me comfort when approaching new and/or scary events. In this case, though, I learned enough to become frightened while still not enough to be consoled by understanding the “big picture.” I can now name over 10 possible complications and adverse outcomes- the only one that has actually been cited here is the increased likelihood of tearing the opposite ligament.
When I found your website, I got exactly what I really needed to know all along. Your article and the following comments have been extremely helpful (and reassuring!) Thank you again for taking the time to do this . I’ll let you know how my baby does and will likely follow up with more than a few questions.
Oops. Just replying because I neglected to check the email notification boxes 🙂
Holly, I on purpose didn’t want to understand the surgery before Hobbes had it. I had a good idea and stayed away from Google. Remember you can cry after you walk away from Dodo. I was surprised to see Hobbes leg when the bandages were removed. You will take great care of Dodo even if you sleep on the floor for 10 nights. Please reach out to me here or on my website. Now exhale and know all will be fine.
Great tips! We are in week 2 of our Newfoundland’s second “ACL” surgery. I’m considering renaming her “Remodeled Kitchen” since we’ve spent about that much on her. 🙂 We had another Newfoundland (gone to dog Heaven now) that had one done as well. I was completely unprepared for that. We hadn’t planned for dogs that won’t crate (our current sweetie broke two crate doors as a puppy), so crating isn’t an option. We hadn’t stocked up on easy to eat foods for me for the two weeks of confinement. Eventually, my husband got food and entertainment for me (All seasons of “24”). On our third one, we are pros now. We have our dining area walled up with shelves and furniture and camo ponchos so she won’t be tempted to jump the barrier. We have a made up mattress on the floor, so she won’t be alone or tempted to jump on our bed.We take turns sleeping with her. We look like preppers, but it works. She, too, met us at the garage door after a quick trip to the store for the first surgery. I still worry that every bathroom trip has ended in hurting her. We have another Newfoundland. No surgeries for him and praying it stays that way. Anyway, I just wanted to share my story, even in my sleep-deprived state (my excuse for being all over the place).
The things we do for dogs!
Gabby, I hope the rest of the recover goes as well. Yes, 24 was a great show to pass the time if you didn’t get too stressed from the show. I ended up passing! You do have lots of experience with the “ACL” surgery. Let this be the last surgery!
I have a 10 yr old Chorkie and she had her ACL repaired in March of 2017. The surgery went well. The vet told me that she may still limp even after the surgery. Most of the time she is fine, but sometimes she either limps or just draws it up and don’t use it for short periods of time. Just wondering if 1. The fact that she’s 10 and getting old may play a part and 2. If this could also be whether related, similar to arthritis. I just worry about things alot as she is my baby 🙂
Melissa, have your vet check out your dog. If it is arthritis, there are so many ways to help her. Hobbes is 11 1/2 and I gave him a shot of Adequan every 3 weeks. It really helps. He also takes fish oil and other supplements. Check with your vet for ideas.
Recently he was holding his non-surgical leg up. His rehab vet found he had a sore ligament. Check the link in the blog to see if there is a rehab vet in your area. Please let me know how she is doing.
My 1 yr 3 month old pittie is having TPLO surgery on Thursday and I am getting so anxious. She has a complete tear on one side and a partial on the other. I live I a high ranch so keeping her downstairs is not a problem. My worry is she’s on and off our couches and I have another pit. They play hard! I know the surgery must be done but I’m so afraid of the 8 weeks following.
James, Your dog will do great. Exhale and remember to breathe. It will help both of you. I highly recommend you order the GingerLead today! The woman who designed it is wonderful and will answer your questions about it. It will save your back and if possible you want it for surgery day. Be sure to try it before the surgery if possible — I didn’t and wish I had. You will want to separate your two dogs for a while. Let your other dog smell her after surgery. It will know to leave her alone. I would use gates to separate if needed. The first day or so it the hardest. Don’t worry, she won’t be up to jumping on couches for a while. I would be sure supervise her because you don’t want to injure the other leg more. Please keep me posted. Take care. Elaine
Thank you for the amazing tips! What was the insurance that you found for your dog?
Angelina, Hobbes was 9 years old when he had his surgery. I decided it was better to save the money than get insurance. I think at the time PetPlan was the best for covering for occurrence in other leg (a pre-existing condition.) At that time, the insurance company said would cover the other leg 1 year after the last rehab treatment. Recently due to soreness in the other leg, his knees were x-rayed. As it turns out, his surgical leg and other knee are doing great. For me it was well worth it to put the money into rehab with certified rehab vet. Hobbes is now 11 1/2 and doing great! Good luck and please keep me posted.
Hi all! Nice to see we arent the only ones going through this. My english bulldog (1yr 4 months) had extracapsular repair done 2.5wks ago. Piper had a complete acl tear, meniscus not damaged. She was recovering great, by day 3 she was starting to use her leg more. But a week after every time she would walk or go potty you could hear a click or pop. When I took her to have her stitches out I asked about the popping. Of course when they walked her it didnt do it. He said it could be the wire suture rubbing together. Since we were there it has gotten louder and more frequent. I called and they want to see her. Has anyone had experience with this type of thing? Shes confined to a small area in our family room just enough room to get out to eat/drink and lay on her dog bed (she is crated when we arent around). I actually started weaning her off her two pain meds the week after surgery as she was getting ballsy and obviously feeling pretty good on it. If anyone has any insight that would be great.
Hi Vikki, I’m so sorry about the click and pop. Hobbes did not have this issue. Please keep us posted. Anyone experience this?
Our 27# beagle is scheduled for ACL repair next week. I’m dreading it. We went through this years ago with our rottie. She tore her other ACL 6 weeks after surgery on the first one and we had to go through it all again. Our beagle has already torn both of his, so he doesn’t have a good leg to recover on. When his first tear was diagnosed in December our vet did not recommend surgery due to his age. But then he tore his other ACL and watching him try to get around was painful for us as well as for him. We took him to a rehab vet, hoping they could help. He said surgery was the only thing that would really help. So here we are, preparing for a lengthy recovery period. I’m considering the ginger lead, but we’ve tried a towel, and he won’t have any part of it, so I don’t know if he will accept any sling.
Deborah, The GingerLead feels totally different from a folded towel to a dog. You are hunched over the dog and the towel is heavy and thick. With the GingerLead, you stand up straight and the pad is very thin. I highly ordering the GingerLead immediately. People I loaned it to, said it saved their backs. You are very fortunate to have a rehab vet in the area. Be sure they know when surgery is. Hobbes went to the rehab vet very quickly after surgery for cold laser work. It’s over 2.5 years out, and Hobbes (11.5 yr) is doing great. Let us know how it goes. Please exhale. Your beagle is picking up your stress too. So lots of slow deep breathing for everyone.
Your dog looks just like my Lily who needs this surgery. Thanks for the tips. What surgery did you get and how much did it cost
Doris, Hobbes is a Wheaten Terrier. He had his surgery 2 1/2 years ago. He has a plate on his knee — I think it is TTPO. The price of surgery changes by location, techniques, etc. I don’t remember his costs. It was worth every penny and so was his rehabilitation work with a rehab vet. I highly recommend you check the blog and see if there is a rehab vet near you. Have an easy surgery and recovery. Please keep me updated.
Hi Elaine, it’s Alissa & Hank here! Our Hank was diagnosed with a torn ACL 4 days ago. It’s been very frustrating as he chased a deer in the woods back in mid Sept 2017 and since then he has been seen by 3 vets, placed under twice & X-rays done twice. 4 days ago we went to see the surgeon specialist here in Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada who we sent all of Hank’s file to. Within seconds of feeling Hank he knew he had torn his ACL. I have read this webpage entirely back & forth 2-3 times and thought I’d reach out to you. I am devastated as Hank (our Cane Corso of 120 pounds) is barely 2 yrs old. We lost our first two boys Zues 9yrs old (Cane Corso) from cancer & Buster Brown 13.5 yrs old (choc lab) from liver failure & a broken heart within 6 months apart in 2016. We just moved into a new home Dec 2017 where Hank would be close to Zeus & Buster’s favorite places near the Wild life Park & the beaches to swim. I was so excited for the summer months to come as our Winter is still ongoingly cold as we speak. Now with Hank going into surgery I feel pain & heaviness in my heart for this energetic ball we call our kiddo Hank. We will definitely be buying the GingerLead, figuring out set up of the home for Hank’s safety & comfort, and I made some calls already about physio. We have two places that provide water physio. One is a pool, the other is an underwater treadmill. Any advice here? I use to take my choc lab for acupuncture but I really can’t see Hank staying calm for that. I will also look into who provides other types of physio, go in person first to check out the facilities and have everything planned out in advance. Unfortunately because we are a small place there really is only 1 reputable surgeon that performs TPLO and Hank’s surgery date isn’t until May 18/18 unfortunately. Due to the missed diognosises & the wait time we are pretty sure we will be doing this all over again with his other leg. Any pet insurance recommendations as we have none at this time? Any pre or post surgery suggestions? Really and truthfully I am so thankful for finding this site last night while I was under the covers in tears so my husband could sleep before work.
Alissa, Hank’s surgery is scheduled and that is fantastic. Sounds like you have a great surgeon. Now is the time to work with a rehab vet if there is one near you. They can help you work with Hank to possibly build up his muscles for surgery. Also they can strengthen his other leg. Start using the GingerLead now. It will help both of you. Hobbes used the underwater treadmill — I feel they have better control than in a pool. They can regulate the speed of the threadmill to meet his needs. Remember not all dogs need the other leg done!!!! Focus on his healing and having a great recover. Remember he picks up on all your stress, so please exhale.
When I looked for insurance PetPlan (I think) was the only one that will cover the other legs. It is considered a preexisting condition. At that time, the plan was the other leg will be covered 1 year AFTER you completed all therapy with the second leg. I didn’t get insurance and Hobbes is doing great 2 1/2 years later. Please keep me posted.
Hi Alissa,
I joined a recovery support group on FB called TPLO recovery support group. The dogs and their owners come from all over the world. It is a great group of people with a wealth of knowledge. We are almost 10 weeks post op, and doing well. I did purchase a ginger lead
brought it with us to pick up my 90 lb Dobe the day after surgery, and the surgeon said he didn’t need it. He has never had a problem with getting up or down, so we have been very fortunate. We have followed our surgeon’s instructions to the letter. If you join the group, you will soon see how all surgeons differ in their recovery program. Elaine also gives great encouragement and is very helpful. Good luck to you and Hank
Hi Sharon, What is the name of the support group in FaceBook? Thanks, Elaine
Hi Elaine.
Canine Cruciate recovery group., TPLO
Thanks Sharon. Everyone the Facebook group is listed above.
Thanks so much Elaine and Sharon for following up with my message. I am going to join the FB group ASAP!
Elaine, are you suggesting that it would be wise to start the rehab on his legs now, even before surgery? I just feel you would have a hard time with his one leg causing him pain???
Alissa, Please check with your rehab vet about visits before surgery. They have options that help alleviate the pain — cold laser, massage, lots of stuff. I’m not a vet or an expert in this field. I do know it helped Hobbes with pain before surgery. Also it built up his muscles for surgery so the muscles didn’t get weaker. So make the all and ask. Check the url on the blog for rehab vets in your area. Please keep us posted.
Our “son” Oscar, a 6 yr old Silky Terrier, will go for ACL Traditional surgery tomorrow, and my wife and I are scared to death for him.
We love this little guy so much and don’t want to see him in pain.
My wife is retired and I work from home most of the time, so being with him during recovery is not an issue.
I am sick about him having to go thru this and just need some words of encouragement that we are doing the right thing for him. Our vet has assured us that it is the right thing and we trust him, But every time I think about it I want to cry or get sick and I am a grown man! I ALSO need to be strong for my wife but it’s hard as he is such a sweet soul. HELP! Oscars surgery is tomorrow!
Hi Christopher, Please exhale and relax. Yes, Oscar is going into surgery. As I said in the blog, it is okay to cry when you leave the vet’s office. Our pets are also our mirrors and reflect our emotions and fears. Oscar is picking up on all your emotions and fears. Please tell yourself that Oscar will be fine. The surgeon is competent, and has done the surgery lots of time.
Now is the time to figure out where Oscar will spend the next 10 days where he won’t be jumping around. Your biggest concern is him jumping off or on furniture. For your back’s sake, order the GingerLead. My rehab vet says often the little dogs figure out is is easy to hop on three legs instead of using the surgery leg. So focus on helping Oscar get a full recovery. He will do great with your help. Please let me know how you all are doing.
My dog tore both ACL back in December she had surgery on both of them and went through rehab. It’s now been 3 months when she gets up in the morning she stiff lips some what about 3 or 4 minutes later she starts to walk somewhat normal. She still not the same dog. She’s only 6 years old before the surgery love to run I have only seen or run 2 or 3 times sense and it was not nearly at the speed as before period. Should I have seen a full recovery at this point or is she still healing and recovering I hope you talk tell me the 2nd I’m very concerned.
My dog tore both ACL back in December she had surgery on both of them and went through rehab. It’s now been 3 months when she gets up in the morning she stiff lips some what about 3 or 4 minutes later she starts to walk somewhat normal. She still not the same dog. She’s only 6 years old before the surgery love to run I have only seen or run 2 or 3 times sense and it was not nearly at the speed as before period. Should I have seen a full recovery at this point or is she still healing and recovering I hope you talk tell me the 2nd I’m very concerned. Thanks
Hi Brad, Your dog is doing great and will get better! If possible, I highly recommend you see a rehab vet for physical therapy. It did wonders for Hobbes. Please find the link in the blog that lists certified rehab vets.
Hobbes was 9 when he had his surgery to one leg. Your dog had surgery on both legs. A lot of muscles need to coordinate and work together. Remember I’m talking from our experience and am not a vet. For what she went through, I think she is doing great. If you want, we can talk with my free 15 minute consult and suggest other ideas. Here’s the link: http://bitly.com/AnimBridHelp If you aren’t near a rehab vet, I have other ideas to share with you.
My dog is getting surgery tomorrow! Did you guys take them to rehab or can you do it yourself at home. How long did it take to completely heal? And did the other leg get torn or just the one?
Hi Brittany, Your dog will do great with the surgery. As I said in the blog, the GingerLead saved our backs and helped everyone. I have no connection to the company — just grateful for a wonderful product! Hobbes went to rehab and we also did his exercises at home. I don’t remember the total recovery time. I will say with in 6 months I saw great improvements and a year later he was better than a year before his surgery. His surgery was July 2015 and his other leg is great. Plan to spend some quality time with your dog and enjoy the time together. It will pass quickly.
Hi Elaine,
So glad I ran across your article. My dog is having ACL surgery tomorrow and I was just running through the last minute things I need to do before he comes home. I love the idea about the sleeve wrap but It’s kind of hard to see how you did it in the picture, would you be able to contact me or send me more info on how you made it.
Thanks for all the wonderful tips.
Hi Cheri, I’m thrilled the article is helping you prepare. Please feel free to call me at 612-237-9580 and I can explain the sleeve covering. Please keep me posted on how surgery goes.