Dog's leg broken/dislocated, no vet access. How can I help it heal?

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  Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on July 11th, 2018

  Hello. I think I answered your question previously about Max, but there was no x-ray. Now seeing the pictures, there is certainly a great concern as to whether the bone will knit together with just a splint. Since orthopedic repair is out of the question, this is your only recourse. Once, many years ago, I radiographed an older lab with a shattered femur. There were multiple large pieces none of them even remotely near each other. My advice to the owners was to repair the leg with multiple pins & plates or amputate the leg. They elected to take the dog home & confine it - no splint. 2 years later, that dog walked in on his own. The leg supported his weight but was definitely bumpy & a little crooked. I will never doubt the amazing healing power of the body. I cannot guarantee that this will happen with Max, but I would definitely give it a try. If you keep him restrained, leash walk only, & if he becomes too rambunctious, consider tranquilizers ( often used in difficult orthopedic repairs when the patient just will not behave himself ), he may heal just fine. If you have not considered CareCredit, you might check them out. It is a medical credit card that most veterinarians accept & may allow you to pay off the surgery over a 6-12 month period, or even longer. Max is young & healthy. It is amazing how the body will heal itself. Good luck & thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

  

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