Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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I am new to this whole thing and my dog has all of her legs but has horrible sores on her elbows and this sight has come the closest to giving me any decent advice on how to help. Her name is Betty and she is a 75 lb lab mix. that is about 8-10 yrs old (she's a rescue so not to sure). This all started with some mobility issues caused by arthritis. Long story short I have gotten her moving around much better with the help of some medication but the damage is done. She has several pressure sores the worse of which are hon her elbows. They are very swollen and currently infected, the vet says that it is good that they are draining on their own and she is on antibiotics. However when I went last week it looks like the skin on her elbows is breaking down and caused a large hole (about 1.5"-2") The vet is optimistic but realistic also. We are waiting to see how it progresses at her next appointment on Friday, at which point we will have to make the determination of quantity vs. quality of life (I am extremely nervous). Anyone here ever deal with this any insight words of wisdom really ANYTHING would be extremely helpful thank you.
Oh your poor pupperz! We've had many folks here deal with hygromas and yes they are very, very frustrating. But don't give up. If your vet wants to give up, find another one. There are many who are more experienced in helping them heal. Here are some links for you, some you might have seen, some you might have not.
How Manuka Honey Helps Heal Wounds
Try Silver Sulfadiazine for Elbow Wounds and Hygromas
Options for Treating a Dog’s Elbow Hygroma
Elbow Protectors Eases Pressure Sore Problems
Try Kuranda Beds for Support and Comfort
Cracked and Irritated Elbow Callous
Elbow Pressure Sore Hygromas, Your Ideas for Coping Please
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
I am so sorry that you and sweet Betty are having to deal with this. Even though Betty isn't a Tripawd she is welcome here and to you both welcome to this great community! I don't have any specific knowledge dealing with elbow sores but I totally agree with Jerry...if your vet is willing to give up then look for another opinion. We have many members here whose sweet fur kids have battled cancer and other issues with gusto. Don't give up on Betty just yet.
And wow...Jerry has definitely provided you with a lot of resources surrounding Betty's issue to take a look at.
I have no doubt others with more experience in this issue will chime in. Just hang in there!
Sahana and her Angel Leland
November 17, 2009 - June 30, 2014
May you finally be healthy and running free at the Rainbow Bridge. Until we meet again my sweet boy!
Thank you for your encouragement. I live in a somewhat rural area and the first vet I had was God awful so now I drive 90 miles to my current vet that has done wonders fixing what the other vet missed or said wasn't a big deal (a thyroid condition and diabetes insipidus respectively). I have tried to remain positive through the whole thing but I feel lately that for every one problem I get a handle on 2 more appear. Sometimes it is difficult to keep positive when it feels like there is so much out of my control.
I did see how to make a home made elbow protector so I feel my crafty side firing up when I get home from work.
Good morning Betty and Betty's Dad!
After reading your post, and I'm .sorry to be blunt, but Betty may want you to consider firing this vet immediately!
You have GREAT links from Jerry and we all ditto her advice...get another vet! Do not give up on Betty yet!
And kudos to you for adopting Betty! She now knows what it feels like to be loved and to experience happiness because of you!
Keep us posted, okay?
Hugs and extra treats to Betty!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle too!
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
Just saw your response about the new vet. I love in a rural area also and it is hard to get access to some really good specialist care so etimes.
Remember, Betty is staying "positive" and isn't worried avout a thing! She's just dealing with whatever comes her way! Let us feel optimistic for you for awhile...because we are! You've been overwhelmed and Im sure feel somewhat defeated. You're here with us now and we all look forward to following Betty's success story!
Hang in there! You're doing great!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle too!
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
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