Help Paying for a Puppy's Knee Care
by Kathy
(Hiram, GA)
I feel so bad for her, she won't walk hardly at all and only for the direst of reasons, not even to go to the bathroom.
I'm trying to help her as best as I can but I am also disabled (paraplegia) so I can only do so much. Just trying to pick her up is an uncoordinated and jarring effort to both of us. In truth we should be on some dark comedy. 2 individuals without the use of our legs.
I need help, plain and simple. I have a hard time physically and financially supporting my own medical needs and am terrified of not being able to help her, both physically and financially. It worries me that I will not be able to cover a surgery that she could need and will probably be crippled very early by w/ out the surgery. At least that's what all research states. Basically the longer I hold out on the surgery the sooner she will be crippled. And being crippled myself I am terrified for her.
Is there any type of fund that can help us?
First, many puppies with a bruised or mildly slipping kneecap improve with rest and never need surgery, so follow your vet's recheck plan before assuming the worst. Ask your vet what grade the kneecap is, since surgery is usually only recommended for higher grades with ongoing lameness.
A puppy who won't walk even to go to the bathroom is likely in real pain, so call your vet in the next day or so; her pain relief may need adjusting. Call right away if she hasn't urinated in 12 to 24 hours or stops eating. To make things easier for both of you, set up her bed, water and potty pads close together so she barely needs to move, and ask your vet or a rehab therapist about a small support harness with a handle that lets you lift her more smoothly.
If surgery is needed, ask your vet about payment plans, veterinary school hospitals and local humane societies, and search for pet assistance charities and funds in your area.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
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