Kelly_Louise

Awwwwwwww, thank guys... It means alot!!! Well not off to a good start... Chloe has put on 1 kilo I know that's not TOO much, but she is still not at her goal weight yet so it's a bit of a set back, especially since she has been a bit more active of late. Oh well, have to cut back even further!!! Poor girl. And boy did she put on a turn today. She tensed all legs and just wouldn't move once we got through the surgery doors. Eventually once she started going though no one let her stop and she went reluctantly with the vet nurse. So I should hopefully have a verdict by 3 - 4ish this afternoon, so I will let you guys know as soon as possible. Don't get hopes up, I haven't... but know that she's doing well regardless for an old chook And back to normal vet for vaccinations next week... She's gonna hate me!!! With all the well wishes being sent, I'm sure Chloe will be fine. Thanks again! Lotsa love, Kel and Chloe - now in her favourite (NOT) day spa

Great news that Rosie has had a turn around!!! I'm so pleased. It may not be forever, but these times are a gift... Hope Rosie can be happy and enjoy life for some time yet... and that you can enjoy Rosie also!!! Lots of hugs to Rosie, from Kel and Chloe

Perhaps it's causing her discomfort???

Boy don't we all know that feeling!!! Yes my colleagues (barr one doggy person) have also surmised that I am, in fact, absolutely insane for paying $10k to save my old girl. They think I am really generous, but as they walk away I see them rolling their eyes!!! I am glad to hear that both patients are doing well!!! That's fantastic news. Berly you must be so pleased to hear the positive news from the vet!! I agree that you must be doing something right!! Keep up the great work!!! Bilby, I hear you. If it doesn't rain, it just pours. It seems just when feel that things are on the right track, something else happens that requires even more of your attention. Heheehehe, been there!!! So we understand why you haven't been on much, but thanks for dropping in with your very limited spare time to update us. Hope the lovely Bouf is well and happy. Like you, I didn't even know cruciate injuries could occur, but it is amazing how quickly we become experts when we are thrown into that world!!! Great to hear from you guys anyway!! Can't wait for Chloe's appt next week, although I almost heaved my dinner the other night when I saw Chloe strangely jerking her leg off the ground everytime she put it down. I was imagining re-broken leg, snapped plates, unhinged screws etc etc etc, so I nervously followed her around asking her what was wrong in a panicky high pitched voice (yeah like she will just turn around and explain her issues), when I realised that she just had something tickling the pad of her foot!!! For a moment there I thought I was going to pass out Oh the things we do!!! Hugs to the patients!!! Love Kel and ChloBo

Any updates on the patients? We'd love to hear how they are going!!

Best of luck Berly and Jordan!!! I would enquire about diet in particular (he's a big boy!!) as he needs to be carrying as less weight as possible on his leg. Maybe also his expected activity levels and the changing nature of his post op care in the coming few weeks. Ummmm, mind isn't working at the moment but I'm sure that the vet will let you know if you guys are heading in the right direction. Definitely let us know how you go and we are all hoping that it's good news for Jordan. Sending lots of healing hugs Jordan's way... Kel and Chloe

Hi Artechim! That seems to be a very common thing for dogs that have undergone the suture method and similar. Even Koza said that Stella still limps sometimes and holds it off the ground and when running etc. Perhaps it has something to do with the surgery type perhaps? Not sure, but it would worry the life out of me if Chloe did not use it properly or limped... I'd live at the surgeons!!!

Some breaking news: Chloe's appointment will now be on the 22nd of August due to the surgeon being on holidays next week... Oh another week to wait!!!

Hi Bilby, great to hear from you. I'm very glad to hear that Bouf (and yourself) is slowly improving!! It's very disappointing when their recovery doesn't follow the 'norm', but never get disheartened. Chloe's first leg was probably 2 months slower than normal but she healed eventually. You also have to remember that Bouf's other leg (from memory) isn't that crash hot either, so he's doing remarkably well. Actually your story sounds very similar to Chloe's and mine. A sort of incorrect diagnosis and Cartrophen disguising the symptoms for some time and in the mean time doing even more damage. I also found that after the painkillers, Chloe started to become more active of her own accord and feel the restriction more. This is the danger period, and I can fully understand how you feel everytime they move too quick or jerk in some way... your stomach just wants to heave and your mind thinks of all the disasters that can happen. That's why in my previous posts I spoke alot about feeling like I was going insane with worry. But it's only natural and does get easier... so hang in there!!! It's now that the boredom sets in also so you have to monitor/supervise/entertain/discipline... while all the while feeling so sorry for the poor buggers!!! So when do you go back for your first follow up xray with Bouf? It sounds like your boy had specialist surgery with an ortho surgeon right? They cost a bomb but don't they just make you feel so confident that all will be well? Thanks heaps for the well wishes and kind thoughts Bilby. We have learnt to deal with the disappointment and not take news too badly, as long as she is always improving since the last xrays is the very best I hope for. And then when the news comes through that it's healed.... well it makes it all even sweeter!!! Lotsa love, Kel and ChloBo

Speaking of spoilt rotten... guess who claimed my toothbrush - YES TOOTHBRUSH (she lurves toothpaste) - when I left my bag unattended??? Yes the Red Devil... wouldn't give it back either and promptly plopped herself on top of my bag so that I couldn't get it either and gave a warning bark to anyone who dared come too close to take it away. Now once something is touched by the ChloBo, it's never returned... So don't feel so bad... I know the feeling. She really should have been a sniffer dog the way she fully inspects all bags that enter or leave our premises... nothing gets past her, not even my poor toothbrush.

She DOES look rather regal though...

Thanks Antoinette... hope you saw my post above that was regarding possession of the new lounge!!!

Yes Chloe also sits with one of her legs stuck straight out... it's quite common with cruciate injuries and one of the symptoms that a dog has a cruciate problem (wish I'd known that a year ago!!!). I'm not very knowledgable on the suture method - not sure what the recovery expectations are but I believe they take longer to heal than other methods. That's what Chloe was supposed to have but it was thought that the osteotomy was safer for her, especially at her age/weight. I have heard there are many things that can go wrong with the suture method like a reaction to the materials used etc. Could this maybe causing the swelling? I hope not, but if the surgery was unsuccessful in anyway I would assume that she would be limping pretty constantly. Chloe was only on medication for the first 4 weeks or so (on the second leg but the surgeon didn't even want it to go on for that long), but it really wasn't necessary for that long, so not sure why they are still using Cartrophen as a pain killer/arthritis prevention. Yes I would definitely ask lots of questions as to the methods they are treating Katy with, and also the longer term plan for her... eg when you should see an improvement in the limp, when you can expect her to be off medication and what is needed to help her in the future (if you haven't already that is!!!). Do you also give her Glucosamine or joint supplements to help her? It may also help to avoid arthritis longer term. If she is weight bearing though that's a good sign. The meniscus that I mentioned can cause painful problems if it is damaged and lolling around between the bones. Chloe had both of hers removed, but I'm not sure if it is necessary with the suture method. If this was a problem though you would probably hear a clicking sound coming from her knee and it would cause lameness. It may just be that Katy hasn't built up the required strength to fully rely on her leg yet. But it sounds like you are keeping a close watch on her and I'm sure the vet will be able to put your mind at ease when you visit. Can't wait to see the pics... If you have problems putting them on PM me and I will try to help (yes it always takes me a while as well!!) Best wishes to you and Katy... and Jack from Kel and Chloe PS. CHLOE IS BOOKED IN FOR NEXT TUESDAY THE 15TH FOR HER XRAYS!!!! YAAY & FINGERS CROSSED!!!

Hi Noele ;) Sorry I didn't reply in the above post we must have posted at the same time. Chloe does not limp at all now and only limped for the first couple of weeks after her op. May I ask what method of operation Katy had on her leg? It doesn't sound normal for her to be having Cartrophen injections so soon after the operation if it was successful. Even Chloe (who lived on Cartrophen) has not had a shot for over a year and our surgeon thinks she will not need them until she is much older with arthritis. Has she damaged her other cruciate maybe? Maybe her meniscus is giving her problems if it was not removed and this can cause a limp? Chloe actually lost muscle tone before and just after her op and slowly built up muscle mass from there, but I'm not sure why your girls leg would appear swollen so long after surgery. Is the limp pronounced or just a slight on/off thing? If your vet is not giving you the assurance you need I would perhaps go for a second opinion elsewhere or with a specialist. Sorry for all the questions. I would be very worried if I was in your position as well. Hopefully all is well with your little Katy, however it sounds very different to the expectations we were given with Chloe's recovery. But it may be a different method etc and I'm certainly no expert!! Please let us know how you go and if Katy improves any... and of course if you've read the thread you know I'm a heeler fan... soooooo, pics please!!! I had a blue heeler previous to Chloe who I adored. Sending healing thoughts Katy's way, Kel and Chlo the Red Heeler!!

Hi Berly... great news that Jordan is adjusting so well... what a good boy. It's always hard on the ones that have been used to a certain way of life for so long, but the resilience and adaptability amazes me. It will make life a bit easier for you too!!! To answer your question, Chloe was a bit overweight before the op so that's when the diet began. With these problems, it's best that they are kept as lean as possible to take pressure off the leg. But with the restricted activity and the length of recovery, you may find that Jordan will put on weight as he is not burning his food off with exercise... which will not be good for the leg. Also at their age they tend to put on weight more easily than others. So during this inactive period I would maybe try to either cut down his portions or put him on a diet food. Chloe is on Hills Prescription R/D diet food mixed with fresh boiled chicken breast and also the cooking juices drizzled on to soften the Hills dry food as I don't know if she likes the taste too much... but so far it's the only way we have been able to get her to shift weight and continuously keep her as lean as possible. Chloe also suffered diarrohea at first as well, due to some diet changes etc. Maybe speak to your vet about whether Jordan will require any special dietary changes whilst he is on restricted activity. And try to keep any treats etc as low fat as possible. Thanks for the update Berly, and really proud of your boy Jordan for holding up so well. It's good to hear that he's also bearing some weight and not in too much discomfort. Go Jordan!!! Give him a big hug from all of us for being such a brave boy!!! Keep us updated! Love, Kel and Chloe (who is has her cheerleader outfit and doing a cheer dance for Jordan!! - a sight for sore eyes!!!)

Oh and to answer your questions Antoinette, yes ChloBo will be going back for her next check up in the next couple of weeks. I've actually lost count so I will have to check the exact date. She's going great guns with her new bed and her inside status. She also thinks she's the ants pants cause she can climb the stairs all on her own... She struggles a little on the slick floor inside, especially sitting down and then getting up. I think she needs more strength but she certainly doesn't look like she's hurting anymore. So I'm off this weekend to buy a large mat for her little room so that she doesn't have to deal with the slippery floor and slide her legs when she's sitting and standing. And another good sign is that she has a WAIST now.... so the diet is still working. She goes for short walks and also goes to visit the puppy up the street on a daily basis (no playing though... just to say hello and goodbye from opposite sides of fence). Just so great though!!! Fingers will be crossed for the next check up but my little survivor is doing well. Better go, I've been talking dogs for way too long... Love to you, Kel and ChloBo (who sends you a big kiss cause she knows you love her!!)

Okay... firstly to set things straight... Antoinette, you can not fool us no matter how hard you try... we ALL know who the new lounge REALLY belongs to, so give it up!!! She is divine Antoinette, quite the princess!!! And Jordan... another cutie. Thanks for the pics, he looks like a lovely old boy. Glad to hear that he's home. I'm sure he will settle down. Chloe was like that too and it took her quite a few hours both times to settle. I think toileting 3 - 4 times sounds much better. When they are at the surgery they only ever get taken out 2 times a day and the poor buggers have to hold on... no one wants to toilet where they are lying!!! But you will discover when Jordan does or doesn't want to go and he will tell you when he's had enough. It sounds like you guys are doing a great job, and I'm hoping things go smoothly. Yes I do understand the strange looks of not understanding that you get from others when you say you have to stay at home and look after the dog. I've had it many times and I've had to take holidays just for Chloe as well. And when you tell people you've spent $10k plus on an 8yo dog.... you can almost see them thinking that you are crazy. But my girl means the world to me, so I'd do anything to make her comfy. Actually I took some time off work just to go out and buy her a new toy just now... I'm obsessed. Let us know how Jordan is going and the progress he makes. I'm not sure if you guys are already doing this or not, but you may want to start Jordan on diet or light food to keep his weight down during his inactive period. The less weight he can carry the better, and at 8 they usually carry a bit more weight than is necessary... but I'm not sure of your situation and what you are currently feeding. Best of luck, but sounds like he's in good hands!!! Bilby, how is Bouf going? Is he bearing anymore weight yet? Is he using it fully when walking or is he skipping on it? Hope he's continuing to improve anyway and we'd love another update. Everyday is another battle to get them through, and for you to get through sanely!!! Hugs to all the wounded and the dedicated carers.... and hugs to Mallee cause she is the cheekiest cutie and cause hell, she's been through the wars and soldiered on. Love to all, Kel and the Red Girl.

Hehehe, yes we love the pics here... thanks Bilby!!! Yes the recovery is so exciting once you get over the initial few weeks. I realise Chloe will never be an athlete and we will always be careful with her, but when I think about how far she's come it brings on the tears. I describe her as my special girl and when people ask why I love to tell them as I am so proud of her. Post op for Chloe she was walking on her first leg straight away (although with the other bung leg she had no choice). The second one she didn't bear full weight (when standing) for a while longer and we were concerned too. But my surgeon says that all dogs are different. I would think there would be more concern if after 3 weeks or so there was still no weight bearing. Some dogs just take a bit longer to adjust. But the first task is over for you, and you've made it to the suture removal!!! Congrats... I find that breaking the post op up into stages gives you a greater sense of accomplishment to get them to each stage. And gives you a smaller task to look forward too!!! Berly, sounds like you have prepared yourselves well. Chloe was also mainly an outside dog who wasn't used to being restrained at all. I have to admit, overcoming that was the most difficult and she did attempt to break out a few days after surgery. So please be very careful about that if Jordan is anything like Chloe (although we didn't expect it of her at first). She also went a bit crazy being restrained at first, so remember to monitor closely until you can see Jordan is adjusting to new life. Remember it's a big life change for him (and you too!!). Make sure that there are no slippery surfaces anywhere near where he will walk, and if so cover with some mats etc. Go through the routes he will take and make sure there are no hurdles or obstructions. Also make sure that his bed is not too high or he can't get his feet tangled when going into his crate. I know, overly obsessive but better to be safe than sorry. You may also want to look at getting a Pet Step or similar to help Jordan on the stairs or getting into any other place with stairs. Also, if you are going to vet for a check up etc and they have slippery floors, make sure to always have a blanket or mat on hand as they will struggle on slick floors. Otherwise, it will just be a learning curve for you both and with close supervision you will learn what is the best way to keep Jordan happy and safe. Also plan for all situations regarding getting Jordan home safely in the car. The best advice is to make sure EVERYTHING is planned carefully in advance and as many risks as possible are avoided. I don't have much advice on post op for the suture method, as Chloe was originally supposed to have this method but it was advised against due to her weight. I believe (not sure) that you have to be a little more careful with this method... and hopefully Koza will be along and give you some advice on this method as I believe Stella has had one leg with this method. Other than that, I found that Google-ing as much information as possible will help you enormously in confidence and you will know whether you are on the right track or not. But Bilby and Berly, if you have any questions or fears at all, please don't hesitate to yell out and ask... no matter how silly they may seem. Remember we've been there and the chances are we've asked them too!!! Hope Bouf continues well on his way to recovery, and best wishes for Jordan's return home and that things go smoothly. Chloe and I will be sending healing thoughts your ways. Please keep us updated on the progress you guys are making... as we would love to share your experiences as well... as I have been able to. Lots of love and hugs to the poor babies, Kel and ChloBo PS. to Berly... pics are a must!!! I have a soft spot for the GSD's as my man has a most beautiful GSD girl!!!

Hahaha, as always you're right Antoinette!!! Hi Bilby!! Poor Bouf... and poor you. It's an agonising time for all. I was like you too Bilby and wondered if putting my girl down was the best thing for her. It bothered me day and night that she could suffer for the rest of her life and be in pain and I would be the cause because I didn't want to let her go. So even though the surgery is expensive, I thought I would give her a chance and see how it went. And I'm so glad I did. Yeah, she's a trooper.... but the change has been utterly remarkable. My brother in law came over on the weekend and couldn't believe it was the same dog. After having both legs done, you could BARELY tell that she has had them. I am just so happy. I have my little girl back and her love of life is back with zest. And hopefully, after having faced such a dark situation and thinking you would have to put your beloved pup to sleep... you will have as good if not better results with Bouf. It's a looooong road. It's amazingly difficult. Sometimes it feels as if it will never end... or if it does it may end in some time of nervous breakdown. But the results, at the end of it all, just make it all so worthwhile. In regards to the on/off leash issue... well I'm not sure if I can help. But basically for the first 6 weeks or so Chloe would go on lead for a very small walk around the yard and to do her business. The rest of the time, she is in her pen and either lying down, or if she wants to move around slowly she does. Basically we restricted her space, but if she wanted to move around (the supervision was required to ensure she didn't go silly) we let her. She knew when she was hurting. And she adjusted herself. She told us if she had had enough of her on leash walks around the yard. She would just take herself back into her pen. However, I remember this not being the case the first time around. Chloe didn't like to poo on leash, but quickly learnt there was going to be no other way as there was no other choice other than to not go at all. The second time around it wasn't really necessary as she had sort of adapted to the 'new' way of 'quiet' life. Be patient. Bouf will learn to adjust himself, it just takes time and lots of silent screams!!! He sounds like a very well behaved boy, which will be in your favour... as Chloe has very selective hearing.... Anyways, we are here for support and anything you need... just give us a yell. I found that I needed these guys to vent to as I really felt sometimes I would just lose it, especially with the lack of sleep due to toilet breaks and constant worry. It's a really stressful time. But you guys will be fine and Bouf will benefit greatly. You will notice the difference after one leg, and certainly after the second. It's a great feeling. ChloBo goes back in a couple of weeks for her xrays. Fingers are crossed. However, again, I have seen the results and I see how she is... and I know that she is on her way. You guys should see her bouncing around. You'd be so proud of her. I bought her a new bed the other day for inside and she loooooves it. She can now get up and down the stairs (slowly and with supervision still though) and is inside much more now... however she loves her little room outside and takes herself off when she has had enough. Oh she's just too lovely and she is just so well. Best $10k I've ever spent!!! Anyway, could talk about her alllllll day, but I must work. Nice to see the thread is being useful again... and hi Antoinette and MalleeMoo!!! Hope you guys are as happy and healthy as we are!!! Love to all, Kel and Chloe

Hi Antoinette! Thank goodness... wasn't meant to be taken literally!!! Back to the point... Cartrophen is da bomb!!!

Yes I know, but I didn't mean flossing wasn't proven to help, but that these supplements have not been scientifically proven in effectiveness (although they are believed to aid in some way) and will not cure on their own.... but he was just referring to the fact that if you don't floss for a year your teeth won't fall out (as long as you are brushing of course!!). It was just his analogy and I do see his point... although for the comfort of my girl I keep giving her everything that I believe may help her in the slightest!!! I hope I made sense...

Well Lady Luck must be smiling on us all to have such great news!! I know what you mean when you say you couldn't imagine the great results Antoinette. I really thought all this was the beginning of the end for Chloe... and I would never have even dared to dream that the results would be so good. You say you are chicken to let Mallee do certain things, but I certainly feel that too. I guess sometimes we think it's all too good to be true? I know that I certainly do and it's scary, but I'm slowly learning to let go. I also relate to the dog socialisation thing. My sisters Staffy used to come and play with Chloe all the time, however due to rough play (that staffy's just can't seem to help!!) I just can not allow it anymore. Especially not at Chloe's age. I feel terrible as her staffy Claire so loves to visit us and loves to go everywhere with my sister, but the risk of injury to Chloe is just too great for my liking. Unfortunately it's a hard decision to make, but sometimes it has to be done. With Mallee being so young though, I think it's a great to try to socialise them slowly by going for walks etc first. You may find that they settle down once they get to spend time together. You MIGHT be lucky... poor Chloe is just a social spastic . She gets WAY too excited and forgets that she's an old chook with bad legs!!! And Claire the staffy is a little energiser bunny... goes and goes and goes. It sure seems that Mallee is well on her way to a normal and happy life, and I couldn't be happier for you all. It must be so rewarding for you guys to know that it's all paid off. Hopefully all our pooches can continue on their way to health and happiness. Glad to hear that Duncan is also leading the way Corine!!! Lotsa love, Kel and Chlo Bo

Hi Antoinette!!! Glad to hear that all is well in your neck of the woods... Mallee Moo hasn't eaten any unauthorised substances lately??? Hehehe. :p Is she still improving? We are doing okay. Chloe is slowly improving. Sometimes if she tries to overdo it I can see a very slight limp, however she is off all pain meds and seems to be using the leg really well. I think she's on track. Still another few weeks before she goes back for more xrays, so lots of healing time before then!!! She is being good at the moment which is unusual... but very welcome!!! May start to take her for short slow walks over the park again soon, but her muscle tone is fantastic. Thanks for checking in!! And glad all is well!!! Lots love from Kel and the Red Girl.

My 8yo red cattle girl also responded immediately to the Cartrophen... isn't it just a Godsend? I'm so glad to hear that it is helping so many others also. We originally gave her the injections as we were told that she had arthritis, and it freed her movement up so much, it was like a wonder drug. However, when she was on the monthly course you could see when it started to wear off at the end of the month. After she was diagnosed with blown cruciates, and before her surgeries, I can't tell you how many long weeks Cartrophen got Chloe through seemingly pain free. She went from a dog who would struggle so badly to get up it would make me cry, to a fully mobile hound again. Hopefully with her 2 successful cruciate surgeries she may only need it based on how she goes in the winter, but it's very heartening to know that as she ages and gets stiff again, I can always rely on Cartrophen (and Previcox - another Godsend - if really bad) and keep her in comfort. I also use Sasha's Blend, but with her surgeries etc it's hard to tell if it really works or not - I guess as long as she is going so well I believe it's a combination that's working well for her and would be afraid to change it now. Chloe's orthopedic surgeon said supplements like that have not generally been scientifically tested to show proven results as to how effective they are, so it's a bit like flossing teeth.... ie, you do it because you believe it MAY help and you want to do whatever is possible... but if you don't floss your teeth they hardly fall out of your gums!!! Hehehehe, I had to laugh when he told me this... I can relate cause I have no time to floss and never have, and I have perfectly healthy teeth, not even one filling!!! But still we do it cause we believe it may help our little ones, even if it's only a little bit...

Could you say no to these big brownies?