This pad is taking some healing but thankfully it isnt a weight bearing one so it doesnt seem to be bothering the lad x It is still open but is now hardening and I am being very careful about cleaning it after walks and then applying the gel which seems to be helping . I am to take him back to see Sue on Monday if it isnt a lot better but fingers crossed that wont be necessary , she did say that stitching is often unsuccessful and could cause more trouble than its worth . Its likely that Reuben will always have a gash type scar down the side of that pad but frankly , this isnt a problem for him at all . He is still only having gentle walks, no crashing around in the undergrowth and keeping him out of the river, not easy xxx