Hi Cindy, Yuck...not the kind of X-Mas present you want to wake up to...
The best resource I know of...and one that several surgeons refer people to...is Laurie Bryce's website, http://www.lauriebryce.com/tplo/ It was done and maintained by a Berner owner, right in MA as a matter of fact and the information on it is extensive and very credible. Laurie also maintains an active email list for people dealing with cruciate injury, HD, and ED. I believe it's the orthodogs list on Yahoo. To subscribe, send an email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Actually, you might want to drop Laurie a note through the website as well...you might be right around the corner from each other. I'd expect both, especially the email list, would be helpful in considering your options...which may include trying a period of absolute rest before going the surgical route. I also have friends in central MA who've completed TPLO surgery on both knees of their boy between 1 and 2 years of age. I'm sure they'd be happy to share their experiences. Another thought...have you discussed this with your breeder yet? Cruciate injury used to be considered a 'middle age, out of shape, weekend warrior' type of injury but I'm now hearing repeatedly about young bernese being affected. Your breeder might have some valuable experience and guidance to offer...or just moral support. And beyond that...I'd expect a responsible breeder would want the information for her breeding program. Hope this helps, -Sherri Venditti
