Munchie

PDSA vets saved Munchie, a two-year-old Whippet, after he tried to jump over a 7ft fence and broke both his front legs.

Shannon (26, a carer from Poole) is the proud parent of two Whippets, Munchie, and Dash. The dogs are adored by Shannon and her family.

She said: “Munchie is the friendliest dog. He’s affectionate, loves cuddles, people, and most of all, his brother, Dash; they are the best of friends.”

Sadly, the harmony in Shannon’s family unit was shattered when an unfortunate accident occurred.

Shannon: “My mum was looking after Munchie and Dash while I was away, as she normally does. So I was shocked and distraught when she called to let me know Munchie had tried to jump her 7ft fence and was in pain. I came home immediately as I was so worried and upset about him.

“I had never used PDSA before, but a family member mentioned their services to me. I discovered I was eligible for free vet care and registered Munchie at my local PDSA right away.”

Paul Cossey, Veterinary Surgeon at Bournemouth Pet Hospital said: “We examined him thoroughly and found that both of his front legs were fractured. However, to see exactly where the breaks were and decide on the best way to treat Munchie, we needed to sedate him and take some X-rays.

“The X-rays confirmed that he had fractured both long bones above the carpus (wrist area) in his front legs. We applied temporary splints to stabilise both legs. His right leg was also an open fracture (where the broken bone protrudes through the skin). We gave him strong pain relief to make him more comfortable and monitored him closely overnight.

As Munchie’s injuries were severe, the team at the Pet Hospital discussed all the options with his owner, as well as the potential risks involved with surgery, such as infection, implant failure, poor wound healing, and risks related to anaesthesia.

Shannon decided surgery was the best option for her much-loved Munchie, which involved repairing his legs using plates and screws.

PDSA Vet Paul Cossey added: “Munchie underwent a general anaesthetic, and was given antibiotics and pain relief before his operation. We surgically repaired both fractures, using plates and screws, which were implanted into Munchie’s legs.

“Thankfully, the surgery was a success, but Munchie wasn’t out of the woods yet. He came around from the anaesthetic but still needed a lot of care at home. He was discharged with pain relief, antibiotics, and a buster collar to stop him from licking his wounds. He also required strict cage rest for four to six weeks to let his bones heal properly, along with regular bandage checks.”

Back home, Munchie had plenty of TLC from his loving owner, Shannon, and continued to recover well. At his check-ups, his wounds were clean, dry, and healing well.

Shannon said: “By the end of week one, he was comfortable walking outside for toilet breaks and spent the rest of the time peacefully resting in his cage. Soon after, he did began walking more confidently on his legs but still needed plenty of rest to heal his bones. I was so happy to see Munchie slowly returning to normal.”

At his six-week check-up, the team at PDSA were very happy with his progress and so advised to gradually start increasing his exercise.

A few weeks later, X-rays were carried out to check how his legs were healing and the vet team were very happy with his progress.

Since his last appointment, he’s continued to heal well and is enjoying playing with his brother Dash again.

Speaking on the stressful ordeal the whole family faced, Shannon said: “When we were first told about the damage to Munchie’s legs, we were all devastated. He’s such a big part of my family and provides so much support to my family, I don’t know what I would do without him. I’m so glad that we had PDSA to turn to for help.”

“PDSA is a great charity that works hard in keeping people and pets together. The care they give animals is outstanding. I was in such a tough position financially, and I didn’t know what to do or if anyone could help me. When I went to my local PDSA, they were so helpful and understanding, so I knew Munchie was in safe hands.

“Without PDSA, Munchie might have had to be put to sleep as the cost of a private vet would’ve been too high due to the severity of the brakes. I’m so thankful for the treatment he received.”

Total cost of Munchie’s treatment: £3,653.71 

PDSA is the UK’s leading veterinary charity. Through our 49 Pet Hospitals and Pet Care scheme, we save the lives of poorly pets who would otherwise be left untreated.

Every year, we treat over 430,000 pets. Without us, emergency cases like Munchie's would be left untreated and many pets could lose their lives or be separated from families who love them.

We wouldn’t be here for dogs like Munchie without your support. Please consider donating today.

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