Harley

Harley was four years old when I adopted him in April 1998. I knew that he was deaf, and I also knew that he was not a high energy dog. That suited me just fine. He also integrated with my other dogs very well, and we had a happy family. Oh, there were the usual sibling squabbles, but we all got along just fine.

That fall I noticed that Harley was limping on his right rear leg. At first I thought is was just a minor injury, but when he did not improve after a few days, I took him to our veterinarian. At first she suspected hip dysplasia, but X-rays ruled that out. She then referred me to Dr. Steve Schrader at Ohio State University Veterinary Clinic. Dr. Schrader diagnosed a rupture of the Anterior Cruciate Tendon and recommended surgery. He also told me that Harley should have surgery on the left knee after the first surgery had time to heal. Dr. Schrader was leaving OSU and referred Harley to Dr. Olmstead.

Harley had the first surgery in early January 1999. This was followed by a twelve week postoperative recovery period. During that time his activity had to be restrained. He was not to go up or down more than one or two steps, and he had to be kept on a leash when outside. He was also not allowed to play with the other dogs even in the house. I could monitor this while I was home, but I had to put him in a separate room or crate when I was not there to supervise.

I scrupulously carried out Dr. Olmstead�s instructions, and Harley was just as happy as I was when the twelve week period was finished. It was worth it, though. Harley�s right knee had healed beautifully.

Surgery on his left knee was performed in June 1999 and the whole process was repeated. Harley celebrated his eighth birthday last February 2002. He still is not a high energy dog, but that is his nature. When he wants to, he can run with the other dogs, and when his food is put out, he can really hustle.

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