J Biomed Transl Res.  2020 Jun;21(2):91-94. 10.12729/jbtr.2020.21.2.091.

Prognosis and outcomes of forelimb amputation in two raccoon dogs

• Kim D
• Na KJ
• Kim G

• KMID: 2503834
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12729/jbtr.2020.21.2.091

Abstract

Limb amputation is a salvage surgical procedure relatively common in small animals and other species. Wild animals after forelimb amputation have many difficulties in returning to normal life because forelimbs of arboreal quadrupeds are used to carry most of their weight and hold feed. This study investigated forelimb amputation and its outcomes in two raccoon dogs. Two male raccoon dogs presented for radio-ulnar fractures. Shoulder disarticulation amputation was applied to protect the thoracic cavity and reduce surgical time. After the operation, they could run comparatively faster with three legs. As they had good body condition and regular appetite during the hospitalization period, they were released to the area from which they were captured. Six months after the release, one of the raccoon dogs represented for hair loss by mites. It showed satisfactory function of the existing three limbs. Thus, amputation of forelimb could be considered as a treatment in raccoon dogs with severe limb status.

Keyword

raccoon dog; fracture; forelimb; amputation; arboreal animal