Doctor's Orders

A couple of days ago Detour developed a light limp which slowly has grown into a very big limp in his hind leg. My instant fear was hip dysplasia which would retire him as a service dog forever.

Today we saw Dr. M - the "dog doctor" as Thor calls her - and she gave me goods news and bad news.

The good news? Not hip dysplasia.

Detour laying in my office beside me - in lots of pain and just trying to rest.

The bad news? He has a torn ACL in his right rear knee. Dr. M is hopeful that because he is putting light pressure on it, the tear is minor and will heal with strict rest and pain meds for 2 weeks. So we're home now following her orders hoping it will heal. In 2 weeks we will go back for a check up - if it's not healed he will need surgery which will cost thousands and include several months of recovery time.

As it stands now, Detour is not allowed to play ball, run, be off leash outside (not even for potty breaks), or jump on or off anything.

He is not allowed to do his job. 

Both Detour and Thor are going to be miserable with this arrangement, but there are things in life we need to do and they just plain suck. This would be one of those times.

Detour's new tag that came in the mail yesterday.
The puzzle piece for Autism, and the heart for his love
for Thor and our love for him.

I feel like one of my children is hurt and I am nursing him back to health. You know how when a child is hurt or sick, they want their mommy? Well Detour is stuck to me like glue - he spends his time curled up next to me or under my desk with his head in my lap. I feel bad that I can't ease his pain, but I'm hoping the first dose of pain meds I just gave him will help a little and he can get some pain-free rest today.

Please, send your prayers & love Detour's way -- this is a devastating blow to our family...Detour is like another child to us and a brother & best friend for Thor. He has made Thor's life happier and safer and now he is in terrible pain.

We need for him to get better.