Kipper’s got a limp

HAH

HAH

Moderator
Location
Devon, UK
Just a quick update - OH and I just spoke to the vet owner of the referral practice who are going to look at Kipper's legs. He was very good to talk to and we liked his approach - he emphasised that whilst he was talking about lots of different conditions and procedures, the number one priority for him was to treat the individual dog and take it step by step; no rushing, and making sure we're all completely clear about options, recommendations and next steps. The main thing he was talking about was elbow problems, and particularly Elbow Dysplasia. He's sent us a summary sheet which details all the conditions that come under this and details of diagnosis and prognosis.
So Kipper has an appointment on Monday at 11.30 for a visual and manual examination, and then depending on the vet's assessment he may be admitted for GA so he can have full CT scans on front left and right forequarters. OH is going to take him along, and if he has CT he'll pick him up in the afternoon.
They've asked for Kipper to have a full head, neck and shoulders shampoo before he goes in (coronavirus) and he can't eat anything on Monday. Poor young scamp.
We're very pleased to be progressing with this, and whilst we're reserving judgment on the underlying cause, we're comfortable with this vet's approach so far. Kipper's remaining on anti-inflammatories for the time being, and we'll review after his appointment on Monday.

The massive take home at this stage for me is - whatever happens, labs need to be kept lean. So much easier said than done, and we're living proof of this; Kipper's not obese, but he is overweight and we clearly haven't helped him at all with letting his weight creep up. But from now on I've learned my lesson.
 
kateincornwall

kateincornwall

Location
Cornwall , UK
The main thing I`m taking from this is that you are both happy with the Vet at the referral practice , thats a heck of a good start . Good luck young lad, for Monday and please dont feel guilty about the weight issue , Nelly is a little fatty right now so must also be put onto a slow diet , it happens xxxx
 
Loraseal

Loraseal

Location
The Hague, The Netherlands
@HAH I like the sound of the vet's approach. Step by step is a good solid plan. Weight control is very important and but it is not easy to keep a Lab lean. Please don't be hard on yourself about the weight. I really really struggle with keeping Hunter "lean" and his reduced exercise also makes it very difficult for me to manage.
Good luck on Monday. :hug:
Onwards and upwards. X
 
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HAH

HAH

Moderator
Location
Devon, UK
Another few positives, whatever else comes our way; with his reduced diet and (gradual) weight loss, we've noticed a few improvements with Mr K: he's far more interested in food (obvs), and less fussy; he's sleeping better; he's doing fewer poos (~2/3 a day) and they're far better quality; and he's generally settling better. Some of this might be correlation rather then causation, but good nonetheless.
 
Joy

Joy

Location
East Sussex
Yes the vet sounds as if he is taking a considered, thoughtful approach. Hope you get some useful insights into the cause of Kipper's lameness on Monday.
 
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Emily

Emily

Location
Melbourne, Australia
Sounds like you have a really good plan now, and a vet that you have confidence in. Wishing you the best of luck for Monday 🙂

HAH said:
The massive take home at this stage for me is - whatever happens, labs need to be kept lean. So much easier said than done, and we're living proof of this; Kipper's not obese, but he is overweight and we clearly haven't helped him at all with letting his weight creep up. But from now on I've learned my lesson.
Click to expand...
Yes, I agree. BUT... A little extra weight hasn't caused any of the conditions (if any of them are actually present) so don't beat yourself up about it :hug:
 
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