Kaz scores an 8.5/10!
8.5 by Dr. Lozier’s standards and a 9 by mine, Kaz’s 17 week check-up was a victory. Before the surgery, Lozier said she was at a 6 or 7 and he predicted her to be between an 8 and 9 after the surgery. Hearing him rate her at an 8.5 was such a relief.
After Kaz’s disheartening 8-week check up, we were really dedicated to building the muscle up on her lame leg. We were committed to taking 2, 1/2 mile walks every day. Each day she seemed to get a little stronger.
At 11 weeks we went in for another check-up and Dr. Lozier said there was a noticeable difference and was pleased with the improvement. He scheduled us for another check-up 6 weeks out. We were cleared for unlimited leashed walks and so we started walking her up to 3 miles every day.
We still took it kinda easy. No running, no jumping up on the couch, no real explosive movements. We kept her on the elk velvet supplements but no pain medications. Just a lot of controlled movements to gradually increase the range of motion and muscle.
All our hard work has paid off though. Kaz’s surgery was successful. There were times when I thought the stress, pain, and financial burden wasn’t worth it, but today Kaz is playing with other dogs, running off leash and in no physical pain.
on Apr 25th, 2010 at 7:04 pm
So glad to hear that all the stress has paid off in the end. It is a massive committment to go through, but as man’s best friend Kaz is obviously now enjoying the benefits of TPLO (after the pain and restricted activity). My dog is into her 3rd week post TPLO surgery so it is great to read a positive account. Cheers.
on Nov 4th, 2010 at 11:47 am
Running off the leash and playing with other dogs?
That’s GREAT!