HandicappedPets Rear Leg Dog & Cat Splint

How to Introduce a Splint to Your Pet

It’s important to remember that any splint or bootie placed on a pet’s foot will need to be removed at bedtime, and should be removed for at least an hour during the day to allow the foot to breathe.

When introducing a new splint to a pet, it’s important to start slowly. Positive reinforcement methods, using praise, treats, or toys should always be used in association with the splint. The splint will initially make the pet walk “funny” or maybe not want to walk at all. Using positive reinforcement to encourage walking is always the best approach.

Day One: Place splint on pet for 10-15 minutes at a time, then remove. Try these short sessions 3 to 4 times during Day One.

Once the splint is removed, look for any areas of irritation or rubbing on the pet’s skin that may have been caused by the splint. If you notice an area of rubbing, please consult one of our customer service representatives for fitting assistance, and your veterinarian with any medical concerns.

Remember that every pet is different; it may take pets longer than a few days to get used to the splint, and that’s OK. It’s more important to make sure the pet is comfortable with the splint and the fit is correct than to rush the process. Continue with these short sessions until your dog adjusts. If you are concerned that the fit isn’t correct, please contact our customer service department or consult with your veterinarian.

Day Two: If your pet is having a hard time adjusting to wearing the splint, continue with the short 10-15 minute sessions, as described in Day One. If your pet seems to be walking a little better and is getting used to the splint, then it’s time to increase the session length a bit.

Place splint on for 15-30 minutes at a time, then remove. Try these sessions 3 to 4 times during Day Two. Again, look for any signs of discomfort, and respond accordingly.

Day Three: If your pet is still having a hard time, continue with the short 10-15 minute sessions, as described in Day One. If the pet seems to be walking a little better than in Day Two and is getting used to the splint, then it’s time to increase session length again.

Place splint on for 30-60 minutes at a time, then remove. Try these sessions 3 to 4 times during Day Three. Once again, look for any signs of discomfort, and respond accordingly.

Ongoing: Once the pet is able to comfortably wear the splint for 4 hours or more in the day, and no areas of rubbing or irritation are present, it’s all right to increase wear time to almost a full day, if needed. If you are unsure how long the splint should be worn based on your dog’s medical condition, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian.

A: Measure from end of longest toenail to midpoint between hock and knee.

B: Measure from end of longest toenail to top of hock.

It is best to measure the dog in a standing position.

How long should my pet wear the Walkin’ Splint?

Splints are not designed to be left on your pet for a long period of time. Introduce your pet to the splint by slowly fitting the splint onto your pet. Do this for the first handful of times that your pet has to wear the splint. Have your pet wear the splint for two hours on, followed by two hours off. When your pet is resting or relaxed for a long period of time, keep the splint off. Always remove the splint overnight. Please see USAGE tab for more information.

How do I use a dog splint?

Injuries to the lower limb of small animals often need to be splinted or braced. Please see your veterinarian to determine whether this is the best treatment for your pet. These splints can be used on the lower leg for stability and support and are available in a full range of sizes and shapes to accommodate the rear legs comfortably. Your pet should always be supervised when using the splint.

Where do I put the splint?

Walkin’ Rear Splints are placed on the back of the leg and held in place by padded touch-fastener closures straps. They extend about halfway up the leg. The bottom of the splint extends completely under the paw to provide weight-bearing support. This is ideal for fractures, knuckling, and other ailments.

What are the splints made of?

Splints are made of hard plastic with a soft foam lining and a non-skid pad on the bottom. The non-skid pad will not work well on some slippery surfaces. Before using the splint, test it on the surface to make sure it will grip adequately.

How will I know if the splint fits well and how long to wear it?

Splints should be used only when recommended by a pet care professional who will determine whether the splint is appropriate, how long it should be worn, and what problems might occur that would indicate that use of the splint should be discontinued. These include chafing, muscle atrophy, or extreme distress of the animal.

How should I start using it on my pet?

Occasionally, animals resist having the splint put on and may try to escape. An animal with a splint halfway on can injure himself or herself. Put the splint on in an enclosed area, and secure the pet with a leash or other restraint. As you start to put on the splint, reward the pet with special treats. Start with two to three minute sessions, and increase the time as your pet gets used to the splint. Please see USAGE tab for more information.

How do I put the splint on?

Putting a sock on the leg before applying the splint is sometimes more comfortable for the dog. Rear splints should be applied on a standing animal. Starting at the bottom, place the foot flat in the bottom of the splint. Make sure that the toes do not extend over the bottom edge. Snug the bottom strap first. Check for a snug fit after the animal has taken a few steps.

Can my dog sit and lay down with a splint on?

Yes, your pet can sit and lay down with our splints.