Dislocated shoulder, 13 yr old poodle

[dcburton]

My 13 yr old poodle has a cranial shoulder dislocation that was confirmed by xray Monday,  The injury occurred Sunday the vet first said she would have to send him for surgery out of town that would cost $1500-$1600.  I said I could not afford that and wanted to check with the other local vets to see if they could do the surgery.  They called for me and said 1 other vet had done that surgery before with success and would be glad to look at my dog.  I was prepared to take my dog there when I was told the vet was able to get the joint back in.  My dog is at home on bedrest (crate) for 2 weeks and Previcox for pain.  My question is, would a brace be a more effective treatment to keep the joint in place? (cranial)  So far the treatment seems to be working, when I take him out to potty sometimes he tries to put weight on leg, sometimes not.  I have been told to not let him put ANY weight on his leg but I find it difficult to bend over and try to hold the weight of 18 lb poodle due to my own health issues.  He is in otherwise good health and I would not consider putting him down at this time but what if the bedrest doesnt work?  Will the shoulder heal enough to give him some mobility, even if he is left with a limp?  Just not sure what to do now, any help would be appreciated.

[Margot49]

Great idea from Karla.  Don't see your location given.
Myself and friends have used UC Davis in the past.  What I was dealing with they didn't charge for because I had a unique case.  However,mthey can be expensive too but no harm/no fowl to check.

[Margot49]

Great tip on the shopping bag idea

[Misfits4Me]

DC Burton.....Cranial Shoulder Dislocations are Very very rare....I'm not questioning your Vet, I'm stating this because you probably will not find much information on it......

I will suggest 2 things:  
Look for a Veterinary Teaching Hospital (College) in your area......There are 27 throughout the US.....They will provide you the same surgery for 1/2 the price as any specialty center.....

Next: Look into Care Credit......You can apply online.....It's a credit card made specifically for Human AND Animal Medical bills......All surgery centers accept it as a form of payment.....A lot of Veterinary practices are accepting it, also....Carecredit.com   Let us know what happens & good luck.....Karla

[lindapalm]

I have read that if you take a canvas or nylon  shopping bag, and slice it down the sides,( and anywhere else that might need trimming to fit your dog) it works good as a sling.  It already has the handles.

[Margot49]

I don't have a lot of experience with Ortho issues but I know it is important that they rest and limit activities and no jumping,metc.
I know there are braces for ACL issues but not sure about the shoulder.  You might ask your Vet or at least consult a canine Ortho specialist, if there is one near you.
As for the potty issues,so it is easier on you, make a sling out of a light towel, some rolled up material, a belt, etc.  you can maybe carry her out and use the sling to support her, make it long enough so you can stay upright.  Be patient and, hopefully, she will get used to the routine, may take a bit.  When she goes, praise her and give a small treat.