Care of Fractures

                      -----------------

                     General Information



Certain basic principles apply to fracture care, whether the

injury is simple or complicated.  These principles include:



    * Reduction of the fracture:  placing the broken ends

    together.



    * Fixation of the fracture:  fastening any fragments in

    place.



    * Immobilization of the limb:  keeping the parts motionless

    during the healing period.  To help your veterinarian employ

    these principles and achieve satisfactory healing, you must

    conscientiously follow home care instructions.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Exercise:  Exercise must be severely limited during the

    recovery period.  Instructions:



2.  Environment:



    * Keep your pet away from wet grass, puddles or damp ground.

    On rainy days, protect the splint or cast with a plastic

    trash bag. Remove the protective covering when indoors.



    * Keep your pet away from dirt, piles of trash, garbage or

    leaves.



    * Isolate your pet from hazards, such as throw rugs,

    slippery floors and stairs.



    * Remove objects or projections on which the splint or cast

    may get entangled.



        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * The cast or splint becomes wet, damaged or soiled.



    * Your pet chews away part of the cast or splint.



    * The pin, wire or splint is bent, broken or loose.



    * Your pet seems uncomfortable.



    * You notice a bad odor from the cast or fracture site.



    * The cast slips down on the limb.



    * The limb is swollen or discolored above or below the cast.





    Remember:  Successful fracture healing depends greatly on

    home care.