Defining and Understanding Fracture Repair in Dogs

What Is It?

Fracture repair restores stability to a broken bone using implants such as plates and screws, pins and wires, or external fixators. Stable fixation allows the bone to heal in correct alignment and lets your veterinarian control activity safely during recovery.

Who Gets It?

Dogs of any age or size after trauma such as falls or car accidents.
Active or athletic dogs that jump or twist during play.
Dogs with bone disease may be predisposed to certain fractures.

Signs Owners May Notice

Non weight bearing or obvious limping.
Pain, swelling, or unusual limb angle.
Reluctance to move, jump, or use stairs.

How Is It Diagnosed?

A veterinarian performs an exam to check pain, stability, and circulation. Radiographs are used to identify the fracture type and plan treatment. Some complex cases may need advanced imaging or referral to an orthopedic surgeon for surgical planning.

Why Consider Surgery and What Are the Options?

Surgery is recommended when a fracture is unstable, displaced, involves a joint, or is unlikely to heal well with splinting alone. Common options include:

Plates and screws: Internal fixation that provides strong, precise alignment.
Pins and wires: Used for select long bone and growth plate injuries.
External fixators: Pins connected outside the limb to stabilize complex fractures.

Why You Should See a Veterinary Surgeon

Fracture repair requires careful planning and specialized equipment. A board certified surgeon or a veterinarian with advanced orthopedic training can choose the right method, reduce complications, and provide a structured recovery plan tailored to your dog.

What Does Surgery Involve? (High Level)

Under anesthesia, the surgeon realigns bone fragments and applies fixation to hold the repair stable. The limb is bandaged as needed. Your dog is discharged with pain control, strict activity restrictions, and recheck appointments to monitor healing.

Risks and Recovery Expectations

Possible risks include infection, implant irritation, delayed union, or implant failure if activity is not restricted. Most fractures need weeks of controlled rest. Many dogs regain excellent function when aftercare is followed and rehabilitation is used to restore strength and range of motion.

What Is Post-Op Like?

First 2 weeks: Strict rest with short leash trips for toileting. E cone on at all times to protect the incision. Keep bedding clean, dry, and supportive. Watch for swelling or new lameness.
Weeks 3 to 6: Controlled confinement continues. Leash walking increases slowly as advised. Recheck visits may include radiographs to track bone healing.
Rehabilitation: Vet directed therapy supports safe return of motion and strength while protecting the repair.
Long term: Return to normal activity is gradual and only after veterinary clearance.

Benefits of Physical Rehabilitation

Pain and swelling control: Safe techniques and modalities improve comfort.
Range of motion: Gentle exercises help prevent stiffness without stressing the repair.
Strength and symmetry: Progressive work rebuilds muscle and protects other limbs from overload.
Gait retraining: Helps restore safe walking and balance as healing progresses.

How to Help Your Dog at Home

Follow the surgeon's instructions: Activity control and cone use are essential.
Non slip environment: Use rugs or runners and block stairs and furniture.
Assistive gear: Use a harness, and a sling if advised, for support during potty breaks.
Bedding and incision care: Keep bedding dry and flat. Prevent licking or chewing with an e collar or recovery suit.
Weight management: Keep a lean body condition to reduce stress on healing bones.
Daily notes: Track comfort, limb use, and incision appearance for recheck visits.

Tips for Success

Practice cone use early: Short positive sessions reduce stress after surgery.
Confinement training: Introduce a crate or pen before surgery so rest feels familiar and safe.
Safe home setup: Add traction, create short level potty routes, and remove tripping hazards.
Plan enrichment: Food puzzles and calm training keep the mind busy without risky movement.
Prompt bedding changes: Replace damp pads quickly to prevent skin irritation or urine scald.

Prognosis

With appropriate fixation, careful aftercare, and rehabilitation, most fracture patients return to comfortable daily activity. Timely treatment, lean body weight, and gradual activity progression improve long term outcomes.