Jack, the 4 Year Old Chocolate Lab and his OrthoPets Stifle Device (Dog Knee Brace)

After our 4 year old Chocolate Lab, Jack, had been diagnosed with 2 torn ACL’s, and the devastation had set in regarding the cost of these surgeries, I decided to do some research myself on alternative options for recovery. I came across the OrthoPet’s website and chose to make a phone call.The staff was extremely informative and compassionate regarding what we were currently being faced with. Since we live only an hour away from their facility, I opted to drive up for a consultation.Dr. Patsy and her assistant looked over our existing x-ray and concluded that Jack was a good candidate for a stifle brace. They took precise measurements and prepared to make the casting of his leg. The procedure only took about an hour-and-a-half, and we were headed back home. A week later, his brace was ready, and we set-off on another road trip to Denver for his fitting!At this appointment, they fit the device to his leg, gave us a ‘break-in’ orientation on how to use the brace, and gave us a sheet of rehabilitation exercises to help Jack along.Not long after receiving his first brace, a second one was necessary for his other leg.Currently, Jack uses 2 stifle braces on his rear legs. The adjustment period was brief, and he is now a much happier dog being able to go on long walks once again, and hopefully, start back up with his swimming routine as the weather starts getting warmer!Aside from a little ‘extra’ daily dog-preparation, the braces have given him another chance to live out his happy, youthful years, without my having to mortgage my home to pay for it!Thank you, OrthoPets, for offering such a wonderful, cost-effective, proven alternative to expensive surgery!-M.K. Colo Spgs., CO