back leg giving way

[blueysmyworld]

hi bluey my 16yr old his bk leg has started giving way under him the vet has put him on anti inflammatries for the last week he hasnt collapsed since that time but not walking right and using his tail to help balance himself-vet is worried he wont come out of operation if put under cause of his age but i may have no choice plz help me love helen and bluey x

[kjc]

Try a chiropractor or accupuncturist.

[TLC]

What kind of surgery?

[107barney]

Don't lose hope just yet - our dog Daisy was completely lame at 2 years old - could not walk at all due to grade 4 luxating patellas in both legs. She had surgery and did fine. Well years later, the other leg went lame, she could not walk. We crate rested her for 3 weeks with the use of anti-inflammatories and she did just fine. These medicines can be really useful in these situations so maybe just keep him crated and give alot of rest and see how he does.

[alaskayorkie]

Originally Posted by kjc

Try a chiropractor or accupuncturist.

This was going to be my recommendation. This might help manage the pain and make him more comfortable.

[kjc]

Originally Posted by alaskayorkie

This was going to be my recommendation. This might help manage the pain and make him more comfortable.

Yes, and could help with making the leg more functional. I am assuming that this may be a weakened ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) from age and glucosamine/chondroitin supplementation may also help in rebuilding cartilage, as older dogs can have trouble rebuiding on their own as their systems slow down.

Rest, therapy, medication (antiinflammatory) and supplementation would be the next best way to help him if surgery/recovery is deemed too risky/stressful due to his age.

Hope he's feeling better soon...

Oh and Welcome to YorkieTalk!