An elderly Cockerpoo is back on all fours after undergoing two major leg operations just months apart.
Poppy Green was on holiday with her family in Cornwall when she jumped on a bed and damaged her left cruciate ligament.
The 12-year-old Cockerpoo was brought to us for surgery, with our expert vets warning she would be at high risk of the same injury happening on the other leg.
Just five months later, Poppy needed a second operation after her other cruciate ligament ruptured.
Owner Amanda Green, from Erdington in Birmingham, said: “I knew straight away the other cruciate ligament had gone and the vets confirmed it. I wasn’t surprised as they had advised she was at high risk following her first operation; I just didn’t expect it to happen so soon.
“I was very worried about her having a second big operation in five months as she was nearing 12 years old at the time.”
Poppy struggled following the second surgery, so she began veterinary physiotherapy to make her legs more comfortable and build muscle.
Nikki Shingler, who leads the veterinary physiotherapy service here at WMR, said: “At her initial consultation, Poppy was uncomfortable extending her leg, lacked muscle mass and hadn’t regained her normal walking pattern yet.
“Over the course of six weeks, using a combination of laser therapy and remedial exercises in clinic and at home, Poppy managed to regain a good level of leg extension, increased muscle mass over the limb and her gait was back to normal.”
Amanda said she was delighted with her dog’s progress, adding: “Poppy was really struggling after her second surgery and it was very upsetting at times, as she couldn’t get up easily and needed support to go to the toilet.
“I am so glad she had physiotherapy as it really made a difference to her recovery. I’d like to say Poppy enjoyed the exercise sessions, but I think the treats definitely made the most impact!
“Nikki was great with both me and Poppy, explaining how each exercise was helping to strengthen her leg and aid recovery. With her guidance, it was easy for me to confidently follow Poppy’s treatment plan at home.
“Now, Poppy has recovered well and is doing absolutely fine. She’s a little bit slower, but then again so am I!”
