5 replies to this topic

[hheldorfer]

Buffy went to the vet for her shots today and we asked him to take a look at one of her front paws - it appeared to me that one of the pads was cracked and, when I touched it, it seemed to hurt her. Well, the vet examined the paw and said the pad was fine BUT she has a hyperextended paw, the dog version of a sprained ankle. He gave her Deramax to reduce inflammation and said she needs to rest - no walks, no dog park, no jumping - for 5 days. Beyond the fact that keeping a Cairn quiet for 5 days seems nearly impossible, I was wondering if anyone else has experience with this. I tried looking it up on the internet and it seemed that everything referred to surgery. Any experience or advice would be appreciated.

[BetsyNoodle]

I am so sorry to here about Buffy's injury. Here is a link to an article about Carpal Hyperextension injuries in dogs. Hyperextension injuries occur in dogs and humans (I work in human medicine) to varying degrees. It sounds like your vet believes it is a hyperextension sprain, without any tearing of the ligaments or malalignment of the joints. If there are no torn ligaments and the joint is stable, surgery is not necessary and the sprain should resolve with rest. The challenging part will be getting your dog to rest. My little Min Pin sustained a similar injury, and it took all my energy to keep him calm but he did eventually heal. Good luck!!

http://www.petplace....dogs/page1.aspx

The sprain is described on the second page of the article. Keep us posted on Buffy's progress.

[hheldorfer]

Thanks, BetsyNoodle! I agree it must be just a sprain because I honestly can't see any obvious difference in her gait. The article says it's usually caused by a fall from a great height - no idea how that could have happened unless she jumped out of bed one night and landed funny on that paw. My theory is that she did it last weekend while racing through the muddy dog park. Anyway, my husband and I will have our hands full the next few days.

[lindasue]

Good luck with keeping her quiet! Pegi was spayed 3 weeks ago and after 2 days was throwing herself at the glass patio doors trying to get out! I have to admit she had more than her 1 per week bully stick during those first few days! Maybe a new toy will help.

[Hawkeye]

I have no experience on this type of injury, but just wanted to say "Get well real soon Buffy". May want to try and give her gentle massages, puts mine to sleep. Keep us posted.

Edited by Hawkeye, 10 March 2010 - 09:50 AM.

[hheldorfer]

Thanks for your good wishes. We'll try to find a toy to keep her occupied. Already this morning she looked heartbroken when I took her brother for a walk and had to leave her in the house. I feel so guilty when those pretty eyes give me that pathetic look!