|
You will be very pleased to hear that "Tiger"
has made an excellent recovery from cruciate ligament surgery.
Not the world number 1 golfer but a 50kg Rottweiller, although
I am sure that many of his opponents would argue that there
is not much difference!
Anterior cruciate ligament rupture is probably the most
common cause of severe lameness in the canine patient and
is also widely reported in the human literature with regard
to sporting injuries. So much so that most clients are very
familiar with the condition when it is confirmed as the
diagnosis. In fact once diagnosed many clients are able
to confirm the injury in the opposite leg as often happens
to the same dog.
This association with sport in humans would appear to differ
with that in dogs where Greyhounds, the epitomy of canine
athleticism in the canine community are regarded as very
low risk for cruciate ligament rupture. In contrast, a high
risk breed such as Rottweillers not reknowned for their
turn of speed or agility rupture their cruciate ligaments
with astonishing regularity. It would appear that there
must be some kind of "design fault" associated
with certain breeds althought the exact nature of this fault
remains a mystery despite worldwide research into the condition.
The recovery process after surgery requires a considerable
amount of effort on the part of the patient and owners during
the rehabilitation process. Controlled exercise to facilitate
flexion and extension of the affected knee joint is paramount
rather than complete rest. Fortunately, for this Tiger her
owners have ensured that her recovery has been steady and
progressive. Partcipation in future sporting events this
year is not to be encouraged.................Mr Woods please
note!
|
