Ripley and I just got back from a visit with Dr. VanGundy, an orthopedic surgeon. The good news is, the limp and pain is not caused by his hip or hip dysplasia as was originally thought. It is a ruptured/torn cruciate ligament and as a result has a worn meniscus (the cushion between the bones). When Ripley walks I can hear an audible sound and that’s bone on bone on this leg. Ouch! This will require a major surgery called a “TPLO” or Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy. Without the surgery he will lead a life of arthritis and pain.
The estimated cost for this surgery is $2800-$3000. If you are able to contribute for Ripley’s surgery, he would be sooo greatful!