Skip to content
Gunner’s Transformation: From Paladin to Custom Knee Brace for a Senior Pitbull

Gunner’s Transformation: From Paladin to Custom Knee Brace for a Senior Pitbull

Gunner, a senior Pitbull from Apollo Beach, faced serious mobility challenges after tearing his cruciate ligament (CCL). Due to his weight, he wasn’t eligible for surgery or a traditional knee brace, making it difficult for him to stay active. But with the right support and care from OrthoPaws, Gunner’s journey from a painful injury to newfound mobility offers hope for dogs in similar situations.

A Challenging Start: Gunner’s Struggle with Weight and Mobility

When Gunner first arrived at OrthoPaws, his torn CCL severely limited his ability to walk. His weight prevented him from using a standard knee brace, as there wasn’t enough room above the knee for proper stabilization. His pet parent was heartbroken, seeing him unable to enjoy the activities he once loved. Gunner’s situation seemed bleak, but his pet parent’s determination and our expertise created a path forward.

We decided to start Gunner on a Paladin brace from OrthoPets—a temporary solution designed to extend the tarsus and help reprogram his muscles. By holding his knee in a straighter position, the Paladin brace reduced stress on his injured ligament, allowing crucial scar tissue to form. This provided Gunner with the initial support he needed to begin moving again without causing further damage.

The Road to Recovery: Combining Mobility Support and Weight Loss

During the months following his initial brace fitting, Gunner’s pet parent committed to a weight loss plan to reduce strain on his joints. Gradually, Gunner’s condition improved. With the Paladin brace, he regained enough mobility to start light exercise, which further contributed to his weight loss. His pet parent saw the difference that proper support could make, and this progress paved the way for a more permanent solution.

From Paladin to Hero Brace: A Custom Solution for Long-Term Stability

Once Gunner lost enough weight to qualify for a more targeted brace, we transitioned him to a custom Hero Brace. This knee brace was specifically designed to stabilize his CCL, offering the long-term support his knee needed. With the Hero Brace, Gunner experienced a dramatic improvement in his mobility. What once seemed impossible—walking comfortably—was now part of his everyday routine.

The Hero Brace provided stability and direct support to Gunner’s knee, allowing him to move freely without surgery. He now wears his custom brace daily and is back to enjoying life as an active, happy senior dog.

A Grateful Pet Parent

Gunner’s pet parent couldn’t be happier with the results. “We’re beyond grateful for the care OrthoPaws provided. The Paladin device was the first step in getting Gunner moving again, and the Hero Brace has given him his mobility back. Seeing him happy and active again is priceless.”

A Collaborative Approach for Veterinary Teams

Gunner’s case highlights a stepwise approach that veterinarians can consider for dogs with similar conditions. By starting with the Paladin device, we reduced the strain on Gunner’s joints and helped promote muscle reprogramming and scar tissue formation. This provided a foundation for long-term recovery. Once he achieved his weight-loss goals, we transitioned him to the Hero Brace, ensuring long-term joint stabilization and pain relief.

Thanks to this gradual, customized approach, Gunner was able to regain his mobility and improve his quality of life.

Meet Gunner: Watch His Inspiring Recovery Journey with a Custom Paladin and Hero Brace


 

Related Posts

Favor’s Comeback: A Custom “Toe Up” Device for a Retired Therapy Dog
October 04, 2024
Favor’s Comeback: A Custom “Toe Up” Device for a Retired Therapy Dog

Favor, an 11-year-old therapy dog, struggled with partial paralysis in her hind limb, causing painful injuries...

Read More
Izogie’s Journey: Custom Wheelchair & Knee Brace for a Three-Legged Shepherd
October 01, 2024
Izogie’s Journey: Custom Wheelchair & Knee Brace for a Three-Legged Shepherd

Meet Izogie, the resilient three-legged dog who found a new lease on life with her custom OrthoPaws wheelchair. After...

Read More
Drawer Title
Similar Products