Casper

Medical Update & Appeal for Foster Dog Casper (9 months old)

Casper has had a challenging medical start since entering rescue last September. Shortly after arrival, he became quite ill and, after extensive testing, was diagnosed with anaplasmosis, a tick-borne infection. Treatment took several months, but he responded well and fully recovered.

In December, Casper developed a mild limp that gradually worsened into a consistent lameness. Additional diagnostics throughout December and January ultimately led to a definitive orthopedic diagnosis: osteochondritis dissecans (OCD).

OCD is a developmental condition involving abnormal cartilage formation at the end of a bone within a joint. When the affected cartilage separates from the underlying bone, it causes pain and inflammation. OCD most commonly affects the shoulder joint but can also involve elbows, hips, knees, or hocks. It typically occurs in rapidly growing, large-breed dogs between 6–9 months of age and is seen more often in males. The exact cause is unknown.

Casper had his orthopedic consultation on January 29, and fortunately, a surgery slot was available that same day. The surgeon determined that both shoulders were affected, and Casper underwent surgery on both joints to remove the diseased cartilage. His total surgical cost was $7,242.

The good news: long-term research on OCD shows a good to excellent prognosis following treatment. Recurrence in the same joint is unlikely, and most dogs return to normal or near-normal activity levels. The surgery is not expected to fail later in life. While OCD is a developmental condition and some dogs may develop issues in other joints, many never do.

Casper is now focused on recovery and rehabilitation, with a very promising outlook ahead. Donations toward his medical care help ensure he—and other dogs like him—get the treatment they need to move forward into healthy, active lives.

How to Help
If you’d like to help Casper, he’d never say no. Click his Medical Fund button to donate toward his care and recovery.

Casper pre-surgery enjoying some canine buddies