River came through her surgery well today. She is resting comfortably now at the vet clinic, tolerating the pain meds well. We will be checking back in later this evening and expect to have her return to her foster home tomorrow.
The damage to her knees is extensive, her ortho vet stating this is the "worst he has ever seen", a chronic issue that has been ongoing for some time. In addition to the torn cruciate ligament in each knee River also has a luxating patella in both legs (not just one leg as previously discovered by her former vet). River's right leg was operated on today. The luxating patella was not corrected at this time due to the extensive damage to her knee from the cruciate tear taking priority. The damage to the meniscus was severe, which is extremely painful, so River should feel great relief now. Her surgery took a long time but was successful.
The plan of action now is to focus on allowing her right knee to heal. In 3 weeks River will begin specialized therapy on her repaired knee to assist with her healing, strengthen her muscles and prepare her for the surgery on her left knee. Details about this therapy will be posted once she sees the specialist in a few weeks time.
We will repair her left cruciate in 6-8 weeks, assuming her recovery is going well on her right knee. Given the severity of her cruciate injuries, corrective surgery will bring River tremendous relief, and give her the stability in her knees that is needed to lead a good quality life. Her prognosis for vast improvement following the surgeries is very, very good.
There is also a chance that with the successful repair of her ligaments, surgery for her patella can be avoided, but this will not be known for several months. Relieving the pain and joint instability from the damaged cruciate is the most important step at this time for restoring River's quality of life. Today's surgery was the first step in helping her lead a pain free, happy life!
All of the Newf Friends volunteers extend their sincere THANK YOU to everyone who has given donations towards River's care. The outpouring of support for this sweet girl has been incredible, and we have exceeded our fundraising goals and can confidently move forward with all necessary treatment for River. THANK YOU TEAM RIVER! As of this morning, River's fund sits at $6107!!!!!
We know there are still several fundraising initiatives happening right now for River's care and we will be putting all funds raised into River's fund for the time being. Once her treatments have been completed, any remaining funds will be transferred to our general Newf Friends fund and used towards the care of other Newfs in need.___________
** Dr. Facey has been instrumental in the care of many of the Newfs who have gone through our program and many of the dogs who have gone through our parent All Breed rescue group HART. Thank you Kim from all of the us!
Dr. Facey has enlisted the assistance of Dr. Faessen for some of the more challenging, delicate or specialized surgeries including surgery for Ella, Mackenzie, Jade and Geordie. Thank you Michael for your support and compassion towards the care of rescued dogs.
Without rescue minded vets like Kim and Michael, as well as our other key veterinarian Dr. Janice Selinger (Bridle Trail Veterinary Clinic) Newf Friends would not be able to make such a tremendous difference in the lives of so many Newfs. Your support is greatly appreciated and we are so fortunate to have you all as part of our team.
