Dennis came to Lort Smith when he fell out of his carer's arms. X-rays confirmed a greenstick fracture, which is more common in young, soft or growing bones.
Our vets gave him a splint to wear for three weeks, and asked his carers to bring him back each week for a bandage change and assessment. This was to protect Dennis from infection and make sure his fracture was healing properly.
Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, Dennis didn't make it back to Lort Smith until four weeks later.
Poor Dennis's leg had become very swollen, and he had developed pressure sores where the bandage should have had weekly vet attention.
He was kept overnight for treatment, and went home with a care plan his carers could manage.
The next week, when Dennis came back to Lort Smith, he was sore again! He had got into mischief while recovering at home, and had fractured his shinbone as well.
Knowing they couldn't provide the right home for such an excitable pup, Dennis's carers asked Lort Smith to help him with his multiple fractures, and then find him the perfect family.
A long recovery
Dennis went straight into surgery to have his second fracture fixed with a plate and screws. After a few days in hospital, he went into foster care with one of our vets, where he could be closely monitored in a home environment.
After six weeks, his post-operative check-up showed the first greenstick fracture had got worse. Dennis had to go back into surgery to shorten his ulna bone so he could walk properly. Another ten weeks of recovery and rehabilitation in foster care helped get Dennis's legs back in working order.
As soon as our vet surgeons gave him the all clear, Dennis was available for adoption!
Life with Sam and Bel
When Sam and Bel met Dennis, they instantly knew he was the perfect, energetic boy to give them endless memories of fun and companionship.
These days, "Dennis the Menace" can be found playing with furry friends at the park or beach. He's always the one to run into the middle and be social with every single dog.
Dennis may not have had the easiest start to life, spending most of his time recovering from multiple injuries and surgeries. But it's inspiring how he hasn't let any of it get in his way. Thank you to our incredible donors and the people who leave gifts in their Wills for helping us care for Dennis.
Lort Smith Animal Hospital operates just as a human hospital does. Our extensive facilities and broad range of specialist equipment let us provide the highest level of veterinary care.