Noelle has a torn CCL, which is comparable to a human tearing their ACL. As to how it happened we don't know as she's a large (37kg/75lb) dog and very active in many ways. It's possible the ligament wore down over time then tore one day, or it may be that one day she jumped or ran in such a way it caused the tear.

 

There are two possible treatment options: 1. Surgery placing a plate inside her knee, and 2. Extensive rehabilitation. I have researched both thoroughly and opted to go the surgical route. A rehabilitative program would take up to a year and while scar tissue would grow in the knee, it won't prevent the same problem from possibly occurring again. Surgical intervention is serious, but within 3-4 months she will have decent mobility and eventually be able to resume many of her daily activities as before given good post-op care.

 

Unfortunately her insurance company is refusing to pay for the surgery, which is frustrating as I carry insurance exactly for the reason of having help in the event that I am confronted with a situation such as this. That means that not only the cost of the surgery will be out of pocket, but so will all related expenses including rehabilitation post-op.

 

To further complicate the situation, Noelle suffers from severe anxiety which has been attributed to her early abandonment. She was left in a box at three weeks of age along with her siblings and I took three of them in at four weeks of age for bottle feedings. I have worked with trainers and specialists to resolve her issues but our progress is not enough when it comes to going through surgery and the extensive post-op help she will need. We will need to work with a specialised behaviourist before and after surgery to counter the effects of the operation and rehab. Post-op she will need to be kept in the house for two to four weeks (only 5-10 minute walks allowed outside once she's stable enough for me to guide her down the stairs with a sling) and it will be several months before she can resume her normal exercise routine. All walks will need to be leashed for five months and she will not be able to play or roughhouse with other dogs for approximately the same amount of time. The specialist will work with me on managing behavioural issues that may arise or worsen due to the isolation and lack of both physical movement and socialisation she will go through. We will also need to address her extreme fear about being touched or having vet visits (it usually takes three people and a muzzle to conduct something simple such as look at her ear or give her a shot). A final issue we have to address is that she already has advanced hip dysplasia in both hips. This means that her post-op plan needs to be followed to the letter and the rehabilitative process will need to be more extensive. We will begin behaviour and physical therapy before the operation and continue post surgery. I will also need to make minor physical accommodations to my home in order to most effectively meet her needs.

 

I have created a detailed plan of all the costs which is below. I am teaching extra hours and working other jobs, but I'm maxed out on as I am in the process of completing my Master's and simply can't add on much more. I am also trying to save money so that we can hopefully return to North America next summer when I finish my studies and this is a set back that could make that impossible. The amount I am seeking to raise would cover 90% of the costs, but if I raise even 50% I would be eternally grateful to all of you. I will find a way to manage whatever else I need to.

 

Noelle was not given a good start in life and unfortunately faces some challenges as a result. She isn’t always the easiest pup on the block, but I couldn’t ask for a more loyal and loving friend. She really wants nothing more than to play, cuddle and love/be loved and anyone who meets her falls head over heels. I appreciate any help you can provide to help me get her back to feeling good again and give her a future as free from pain or discomfort as possible.

 

I've set up a blog to document the process and hopefully help other pet owners going through the same.

https://backonherpaws.blogspot.com/

 

Thank you from both of us.

 

Xo

Jess

 

DATE OF SURGERY: DECEMBER 22

We have set the date of surgery five weeks out to allow time for her to adjust to the anxiety meds, receive some physical therapy to strengthen her back and hips, and allow for a few sessions with the behaviourist. In the meantime, I am limiting her activity and have been using a special brace on her leg. We are managing the pain and inflammation with massage, CBD oil and adequate rest.

 

Surgery and follow up visits/x-rays: 1,600€

Pre and post-op visits with behaviourist: 400€

Physical Therapy (15 sessions ): 420€

Equipment (custom brace, support sling): 100€

Home modifications (ramps for stairs, indoor potty on balcony, exercise pen): 150€

Pre and post-op anxiety meds (2 months): 120€

 

Total: 2, 790€ ($3,200 US)