splints and casts

This is a question for anyone who has had their dog in a splint or cast for a broken bone (or for any vet techs or nurses out there). Franklin has a soft splint on for a broken toe. I was told to keep it dry, and know that if it gets wet it can cause the skin to ulcerate. I have a splint change set up for Wed. and just now he stepped in a puddle. I'm wondering if I should try to get him to the vet today to change it or wait until tomorrow or Wed. It doesn't seem very wet, but I know that it could actually be wetter inside than it looks outside. My only reason for not rushing him in today and for wanting to wait is the appointment I have set up is free and if I take him to the vet today or tomorrow it is going to cost $50+ (and after already spending about $300 for the original appointment, free is good). I don't want to do anything that will cause Franklin pain or further injury. Any thoughts or advice?

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Permalink Reply by Jennifer Markley on March 21, 2011 at 6:08pm

It will only ulcerate if it festers for a couple of days. Get a hair dryer and put it on the cool or very low setting, and blow air into that area. You should be OK. Just call the vet in the AM to see if he wants to check it.

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Permalink Reply by Melissa and Franklin! on March 21, 2011 at 9:18pm

thanks for the info. I decided to get it changed by the vet tomorrow. Last thing I need is open wounds on top of a broken toe!

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Permalink Reply by Melissa O on March 21, 2011 at 9:46pm

You might look into a cast cover if you have to do this long - we had one for Zoey while she went through 2 months of casts and splints due to a broken bone that required surgery. Ours was made by MediPaw I think.

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Permalink Reply by Melissa and Franklin! on March 21, 2011 at 11:37pm

I made a really handy one but only put it on when he goes outside. He decided to learn to use the dog door at my brother's house and got out into the backyard without me knowing it. I found him in the only puddle in his 1/2 acre backyard! Typical Frank!