Just had to share the progress on Simba, it has been amazing. So very grateful to those who contributed to make this possible. It really was the right decision. To see how he is now becoming a normal puppy rather than the quiet subdued boy he was prior to amputation reinforces how much pain he must have been in with the smashed elbow.
Simba is progressing well. He has had his post-op and stitches out and as you will see in this little video he is manaaging 3 legs so well such a short time after surgery.
Simba is thriving. His wound has healed well, and he is ready to take on the world. Tomorrow he visits Specialist Mike @ ARC to have his stitches removed, and then on to Forest Hill Vets for his vaccinations. Simba has learnt to hold his goat horn under his left paw to chew and teeth on. Still on 4 feeds p/day with regular naps. He is confidently striding around the property on lead and loves playing with Phoenix & Layla
Went and visited Simba in his fosterhome yesterday, was very pleased to see me, felt good that he remembered me. He is starting to get the hang of walking on one leg, several whoopsies which is heartbreaking to see.
So pleased to let you know that Simba came through his surgery well. Examination of his elbow confirmed that it was irreparable and they had to proceed to full limb amputation. In less that 48 hours he was able to stand for a brief time, but is improving at each attempt. I cannot express my thanks to everyone who has made it possible for this pup to live. You have all literally saved his life. I am pleased to say that we are close to covering expenses to date, between Give a Little and those who have donated to our bank account directly. Thank you, Thank you and baby woofs from Simba
Update on puppy Simba with the broken leg.
We saw the specialist vet today for repeat xrays and consult to see if his bones had developed enough to give clear views this time as CT and previous xray done 2 weeks ago where inconclusive. Xrays taken today were much more informative but unfortunately worse than anticipated. His little joint is literally smashed beyond repair - see xrays attached. The specialist said it looks like the bone has detached then those pieces figuratively stomped on to cause a mushy mess and is totally irrepairable. Only option to save his life is a full limb amputation. This has been scheduled for tomorrow morning. Being so young he will quickly adapt to three legs, will be important to keep him on the lean side. Estimate for this surgery is between 3-4 thousand. Our fundraising so far has given quite a bit towards this but please share his Give a Little page so we can raise the rest. To say I am devastated it has come to this is beyond words and how the heck he managed so well is beyond even the specialist's thoughts. We did ask if this was a Super Vet job and unbelievably this guy worked for 5 years under Noel Fitzpatrick and said that even he would not be able to reconstruct this joint. Good news is that Simba is now 7.7kg, nearly doubling his weight in 2 weeks.
Only 2 days to go before the orthopaedic specialist review. In the meantime I am happy to report that Simba has been an angel with regard to his crate rest. He is getting lots of interaction though, being carried around the property experiencing new things. Meeting people and children and we are making sure his social development is not compromised. He is to have repeat xrays on Wednesday which will allow us to judge what the best treatment plan will be. He has been so brave, but managed with pain meds okay. Poor little thing has known nothing but discomfort but thanks to all of you generous people he has a fighting chance. Will update after specialist appointment on Wednesday. So hoping we can save his leg.
