My vet, the amazing Dr. Brown, just called. Hobo's elbow is definately infected and the source of his limp. It hurts to straighten the joint so he won't put his paw flat. However, there is good news for a change too! The infection has not moved into his bones! Dr. B says it's on the verge of doing that so we caught it just in time. A bone infection could have lead to very serious problems, even having to amputate that leg!! Hobo will need a massive dose of anti-biotics for the next three weeks, but he should be fine.
Dr. B expects that next winter the little guy will be ready and able to pull again. Hobo is willing to do it now, but for his own good he is done for this season. He gets so mad when I leave him behind. I was worried that he would be done as a sled dog--not that we wouldn't still love and keep him, but he's a very high energy dog and he was bred to pull and loves to work. I don't know how I'd keep him entertained and healthy mentally if he couldn't be a sled dog anymore!
Dr. B is very impressed with how the rest of Hobo's wounds have healed. Especially the rectal tear. Hobo has not had any difficulties with bowel control which was a definate possible after the injury.
Thanks for your prayers and positive energy for the little guy. I'm so happy to have some decent news for a change!!
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