Chocolate to undergo surgery on Monday
posted
May 2, 2008
Chocolate, a stray Chesapeake Bay retriever from the Tri-Cities will undergo
surgery on Monday to correct persistent problems in his front left leg.
After a full assessment at WSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Chocolate’s
team of caregivers have decided that a corrective osteotomy on Chocolate’s
left forelimb will give him the best chance for success. “We’re trying to
improve the function of his left forelimb to match the right forelimb” said
Dr. Steve Martinez, veterinary orthopedic surgeon at WSU’s Veterinary
Teaching Hospital. “Even though he’s making great strides in improving his
strength and muscle build-up, we think we can help him regain more function
in his forelimbs.”
In recent weeks, Chocolate has made great strides in his rehabilitation. The
team has even modified his regime to include more natural activities, such
as chasing his ball, instead of walking him with the use of a sling. “He
has shown tremendous improvements this last month in using his front legs
again,” said Dr. Martinez. “Unfortunately, his left front leg continues to
rotate slightly outward. Surgery is now the best option for him.”
Chocolate’s rehabilitation is growing closer to completion. In recent weeks,
he has become more at ease around other dogs, and continues to grow
friendlier to people with each passing day. Depending on his recovery from
Monday’s surgery, the WSU team is hopeful Chocolate may be released as soon
as early June.
Last Edited: May 06, 2008 3:33 PM
