Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 7/19/2008

Question
My dog kept completely off his hind foot for a week.  He would walk on only 3 legs. The vet said that he has a midline fracture equivalent to the ankle bone.  His leg is now wrapped in gauze with a splint.  Now he puts weight on the injured/splint leg when he walks. Would he be better without the splint since then he wouldn't be using the leg?  Would the fracture heal properly without the splint? It is a real challenge keeping the splint clean/dry!  Thanks

Answer
Suzanne -

It is better for your dog to have the splint.  The splint offers your dog support so the ankle will heal and the bones will stay put as they heal.  Without the splint the ankle will not heal properly.


Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM