The following instructions are intended to provide you with a guideline to the correct amount of exercise you can allow your pet. Please bear in mind the guidelines may need to be adapted for each individual patient. A gradual improvement in use of the leg over time should be seen. Any sudden increase in lameness that persists for more than 24 hours is an indication for rest and prompt re-examination.
Weekly plan:
Week 0-1 - Strict cage/room rest with short trips out on the lead only for toileting. 3 days post-op check.
Weeks 1-2 - Minimal exercise house rest, frequent short lead walks of a few minutes on flat ground. 10-14 day post - op check.
Week 2 - Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy can be commenced at this stage if required. This will depend upon progress.
Weeks 2-8 - Controlled lead exercise short lead walks on flat ground. Maximum 10 minutes duration initially, but several times daily.
Week 8 - Post-op X-ray confirmation of bone healing may be required.
Weeks 8-12 - Increasing controlled exercise, lead walks several times daily . Increasing in length by 5 (five) minutes per week. Decrease frequency of walks as length increases.
Weeks 12-16 - Controlled exercise with increasing off lead activity long lead walks followed by 5 (five) minutes off lead activity at the end. Increase off lead activity by 5 (five) minutes per week. No playing with other dogs, jumping or ball chasing activities.
Weeks 16-20 - Controlled off lead activity unlimited duration walks and off lead activity but continue to avoid strenuous activities/jumping/playing.
Post-operative Care:
The short term priority is to ensure your pet is comfortable and the surgical wound heals without complications.
- The knee may initially be more painful following surgery. Your pet will be prescribed with pain relief to keep your dog comfortable. It should start bearing some weight on the leg within a few days and comfort levels should gradually improve.
- Licking, or self-trauma of the wound can cause infection and prevent normal wound healing. It is imperative this is not allowed and use of an Elizabethan collar may be required.
- Please monitor the wound for any discharge, bleeding or swelling. Some bruising following is a common occurrence and usually resolves within a week.
- If you have any concerns about the appearance of the wound of your pet’s comfort levels please contact your vet for advice.
- Please book follow up checks with your vet as directed. This will normally be 3 days and 10 days following the operation.