Mack’s Journey: A Custom Brace for Post-Tumor Recovery in a Boxer

Mack, an 8-year-old Boxer from St. Petersburg, FL, is a true testament to resilience and determination. When his family discovered a localized tumor on his right hind limb near the ankle, the decision was life-altering. Faced with two daunting options—remove the tumor or amputate the leg—Mack’s family opted for tumor removal, a choice that ultimately saved his life but left him with significant mobility challenges.

Navigating the Aftermath of Surgery

The tumor removal surgery, while successful, required removing tendons and ligaments essential for controlling Mack’s paw. As a result, he lost the ability to walk normally, and his altered gait caused constant pressure sores and infections. Over the next 11 months, Mack’s family faced an uphill battle, trying everything to help him heal—bandaging, weight redistribution, and endless vet visits. Despite their best efforts, every solution only shifted the problem, with wounds reappearing in new areas.

The emotional toll of seeing Mack in discomfort was compounded by a staggering financial burden. Mack’s family spent nearly 10 times more on treating recurring wounds and infections than they had on the original tumor surgery. They were running out of options—until a visit to BluePearl Clearwater brought hope back into their lives.

Finding Hope Through OrthoPaws

Dr. Human, a skilled surgeon and medical director at BluePearl, recognized that Mack needed more than temporary fixes. He recommended a custom brace to correct Mack’s walking pattern and better distribute weight across his paw. With renewed optimism, Mack’s family turned to OrthoPaws for a solution.

At OrthoPaws, we started by fitting Mack with a temporary UPETS splint. This affordable diagnostic tool tested whether stabilizing his paw would promote healing—and the results were promising. Over a few weeks, Mack’s wounds began to heal, proving that proper support was the key. With this validation, we moved forward with a custom tarsus brace tailored to Mack’s unique needs.

A Custom Solution That Changed Everything

The custom Hero tarsus brace was designed to stabilize Mack’s paw while preserving his mobility. Once fitted, it quickly became clear that this brace was the answer Mack’s family had been searching for. Not only did it allow his wounds to heal completely, but it also restored his ability to walk comfortably.

Throughout the process, amputation was suggested multiple times by vets who were unsure how to manage Mack’s condition. However, thanks to the Hero tarsus brace, Mack avoided such a drastic measure, preserving his leg and maintaining his quality of life.

Mack’s family expressed their gratitude, saying,

“We’re so grateful for the custom brace. We spent so much time and money trying to heal his wounds, and this brace was the solution we needed from the start. Mack is walking normally again, and we’re just happy to see him comfortable and happy.”

Insights for Veterinarians: Bridging the Gap Between Mobility and Healing

Mack’s case highlights the value of custom solutions in complex post-surgical scenarios. The Hero tarsus brace not only corrected Mack’s walking pattern but also redistributed weight effectively, allowing his wounds to heal without the need for further invasive procedures.

For veterinarians, this case emphasizes the importance of considering bracing as a viable alternative to amputation or prolonged wound management. At OrthoPaws, we’re committed to collaborating with veterinary teams to design solutions tailored to each patient’s needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

A Call to Action

If your pet or a patient is struggling with mobility challenges, OrthoPaws can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore custom solutions that transform lives. For veterinary professionals, we welcome referrals and are happy to work closely to develop a personalized treatment plan. Together, we can give pets like Mack the chance to move freely and live happily.