A five-year-old dog whose poorly back legs were causing severe mobility issues is on all paws again thanks to the skills of our specialist-led orthopaedic and physiotherapy teams.
Lyra, a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, underwent the life-changing surgery here at Kentdale Referrals.
Initially, Lyra’s lameness was confined to one hind leg, however, over time her condition worsened and spread to the other back leg, causing her problems when simply trying to stand up.
It was thought her discomfort could be cruciate ligament or spinal problems, and a CT scan and detailed investigation by our team confirmed it was an issue with the stifle joints, which is the equivalent of a human knee.
In Lyra’s case, the left cranial cruciate ligament had started to fray, with the lumbar spinal pain a secondary factor.
Lyra’s loving owner, Christine Sharpe from Blawith, said: “Lyra started to have problems using her hind legs when trying to stand up and our local vet diagnosed possible cruciate ligament or spinal problems,
“Despite three weeks of complete rest the problem was not resolved so we were referred to Kentdale.
“While we were relieved to find out what the problem was, we were also concerned that she’d need surgery.
“However, Lyra is still relatively young and we were determined to give her the best quality of life.”
Simon Roch, RCVS recognised specialist in small animal surgery (orthopaedics), took charge of Lyra’s complex operation, which involved rotating the top section of the tibia and stabilising the bone fragments with a bone plate and screws.
Emma Woof, veterinary physiotherapist here at Kentdale, said: “Following the surgery, Lyra I put together a home exercise plan, which included exercises such as sit to stand, as well as continued physiotherapy and massage.
“It’s clearly working as Lyra is increasing her exercise and enjoying her walks, which is great to see.”
Lyra’s owner, Christine, added: “I can’t fault the care given by Kentdale and we’re continuing to slowly extend the time she walks on the lead. It’s great that she’s much like her old self with no problems standing up.”
We are one of the UK’s leading Specialist Orthopaedic, Spinal and Soft Tissue small animal referral centres.