April 11, 2011

Difficult Choices

As I reported a few weeks ago, Captain has a torn ACL in his right knee.  He has been going to hydrotherapy twice a week for almost two months.  We had really hoped the therapy would heal his ACL and help avoid surgery, but it appears that is not happening.  He is getting worse and he is in pain.  New x-rays have revealed that not only does he have the ligament tear but he has arthritis in that leg, as well as in the opposite hip.  The simple act of putting one foot in front of the other has become a real challenge for our red dog.

We went for a consultation with a specialist last week.  Out of the three surgeries currently performed for ACL tears in dogs, Captain only qualifies for one....the most aggressive and most expensive one (of course!).  We have weighed the pros and cons over and over and decided to go with the surgery.  While the actual surgery time is less than two hours, recovery will take much, much longer.  Captain will have to be monitored very closely and only allowed to go outside on leash for potty breaks for at least four weeks. Because we live in a tri-level house, we will have to keep him confined to the lower level and Neal and I will take turns sleeping with him at night.  This whole process will undoubtedly test the patience of all of us, but we are hopeful that the end result will be a pain-free existence for our boy and many more years of chasing squirrels.

All prayers, white light, good vibes, and special thoughts sent our way will be much appreciated.

7 comments:

C and C Antiques and Animals - What a Life! said...

Positive good thoughts and prayers your way for a speedy recovery!

Sherri said...

I am praying for your family and Captain. I am a dog lover. We have five dogs. Our oldest two are 12 and 16. We love them dearly. It sound like you are doing everything you can to help your friend. Again, I will be praying you all.
Sherri

Diana said...

Prayers and thoughts to Captain and the family.

Sweet Virginia Breeze said...

My thoughts will be with you and with Captain. I hope he has a successful operation and recovers quickly.

Anonymous said...

happy thoughts and good healing your way.

Lilla said...

Thanks everyone!

basicliving@backtobasicliving.com said...

Oh dear. Poor Captain. And poor you and Neal. I know recovery won't be fun, but what a lucky boy to have parents that love him so much they will alternate sleeping with him! I have no doubt that the Captain will come through this with flying colors and live many, many more healthy years chasing squirrels. Sending good, positive thoughts and prayers your way.

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