Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Not So Wordless Wednesday


This little lady had the outermost toe of her right hind leg amputated yesterday. It is believed that the sarcoma on the paw pad should now be gone in its entirety. Nevertheless, to be safe, the toe is being sent out for biopsy, to ensure that all margins of the tumor were removed. In addition, we of course will always keep an eye on that area, as well as the rest of Astrid's body, for any potential recurrence. For now, though, we are being optimistic.

Prior to surgery, Astrid had a chest x-ray done. The veterinarian did not expect to see anything concerning, but did want to be safe and ensure there was no metastasis visible in the lungs or elsewhere. Nothing abnormal showed up on the x-rays, thank goodness! Astrid's bloodwork was also all good.

Since the surgery, Astrid has been doing pretty well. She came home still pretty drowsy from the anesthesia, which is a feeling that she clearly does not like. Also, just like the last time around, she is not a fan of the bandage applied by the veterinarian. Understandably, the vet wrapped the bandage tightly enough that Astrid cannot get to her incision and sutures. But, let's be honest, Astrid is not a fan of tight bandages.

After her initial mass removal last week, Astrid only stopped moping and perked up when we changed the bandage at home and wrapped it more loosely. This time, though, the bandage has to stay on for a couple of days, and she'll be going back in on Friday to have it removed, the incision checked, and a new bandage applied. When necessary, Astrid has to wear the cone of shame to keep her from the bandage. She is also still getting pain meds and anti-anxiety meds as she heals, to keep her as happy and calm as possible.

The Battle of the Bandage will probably rage on for the next couple of weeks while the incision heals. Hopefully this little mummy pup can handle it.


Thank you all again for the purrs, barks, thoughts, prayers, love, and support you've been sending our way! Astrid and all of us here appreciate it more than we can ever express.



***
Our Tip of the Day:
Though you'd think it would be a simple task, keep in mind that sometimes there is a right and a wrong way to clean and bandage a wound. Depending on the location, depth, and overall type of wound, certain materials and techniques might work better than others. If cleaning a wound is necessary, safe options might include warm water, an antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine, or another solution offered by a veterinarian.

Once cleaned, a typical bandage often involves using a non-adherent pad, which can then be wrapped with gauze, which is then often held in place with self-adherent bandaging and/or medical tape. Then again, sometimes bandaging is not required, or is only required for a short amount time, after which exposure to air might be needed in order to allow the wound to heal better and faster.

Then there is the topic of whether or not to use an ointment on a wound. Some antibiotic ointments used for humans are not the best choice for animals, and sometimes moisture from an ointment might not benefit a particular wound. In some cases, medicated powders allow for the best wound healing.

For all of these reasons, when in doubt, whether it be an accidental wound or an incision from a procedure, it is often best to consult your veterinarian about cleaning and bandaging. Having a professional clean a wound and apply bandaging for you is never a bad idea. If at-home bandaging is required or beneficial, though, then never hesitate to ask your veterinarian to demonstrate or explain the process to you.

12 comments:

Peachy, Stippie, Angel Binky and Granny said...

So relieved to hear that it all went well so far for Astrid. Will send Healing Pawkisses for a speedy recovery <3 <3 <3

Marg said...

Oh Astrid, so sorry you had to go through all this stuff. The good news is that it sounds like you are on some good drugs.Things are going to get better now. Lots of hugs coming your way from the gang here. Take care.

The Daily Pip said...

Oh gosh, I am sorry Astrid is going through this. I am glad the surgery went well, and that her chest xray and blood work were all normal. Paws crossed for a quick and easy recovery for her.

ZOOLATRY said...

Hi, Beautiful! Happier Bouncy Running Playing Days lie ahead ... for now, heal, rest, be well. We are all putting paws together for you!

The Island Cats said...

We're glad the surgery went well but poor Astrid. I know what it's like to have a bandaged foot. A few years ago, I ripped a claw out and it was bleeding like crazy and the vet put a bandage on my paw. I hated having it on...and it didn't stay on for long. But we know Astrid's paw has to heal...we hope it heals quickly and everything comes back great for her. ~Ernie

pilch92 said...

I am glad everything went well. Sorry Astrid has to suffer with the bandages for a while though. I love the drawing, very clever. And as always, that is an excellent tip.

Tama-Chan, Benny, Vidock, Violette, Ollie, Heloise, Momo, Ryu said...

Feel better soonest, Astrid!

Woofs,
Tommy

Julie said...

Dear sweet Astrid, I am sooo pleased to hear you are back home after your op. Take care, get well soon and don't furget to make the most of this to get lots of TREATS!!!!!!
Loves and licky kisses
Princess Leah xxx

da tabbies o trout towne said...

astrid...we iz buzzed happee yur home N st francis sendz mor blessingz just coz him can....sew bee lookin for em....all sew may bee yur mom will let ewe wear like a sox over yur bandage....sox R kewl ya noe.... N we bet ewe think sew two.... N ya willna wanna chew it off ?? may bee...ewe could get a total lee... fun kee sox...one that even haz dawgs on it !! ☺☺♥♥

Eastside Cats said...

Psst! Don't tell Astrid it's the 'cone of shame'! Call it her new fashion accessory, or her beautiful plastic necklace!
Sending more hugs and purrs for the news to be good when you visit the vet again!

Melissa, Mudpie and Angel Truffles (Mochas, Mysteries and Meows) said...

Poor Astrid :( We're purring for a complete and speedy recovery!

Kitties Blue said...

Astrid, that drawing you mommy did is just the cutest thing. We know you may not like having your paw bandaged, but at least you don't look like that drawing. We know you'll be up and about and back to your "old" self quicker than quick! All the tips your mom has been giving the last few days are terrific! Thank you. Sending you lots more love. purrs, prayers and POTP, sweetie. XOCK, Lily Olivia, Mauricio, Misty May, Giulietta, angel Fiona, Astrid, Lisbeth, Calista Jo and Cooper Murphy