8 Week Checkup Blues

Today was our 8 week checkup in Columbia. The standard operating procedure for TPLO recovery is at 8 weeks there should be enough bone regrowth to begin controlled exercise. Last time, we started 5 minute walks three times a day and increased the frequency every couple of weeks. Well, our x-rays today showed much less bone growth than the doctor was expecting. There is still the real possibility of her breaking the front of the tibia off and causing extreme problems. The doctor wants us to start her 5 minute walks, but he doesn't want us to increase the frequency for 6 weeks. 6 WEEKS! This pushes our estimated FREE date back 3 weeks. I'm very disappointed. I thought today would be a milestone that we could feel good about, but it seems we're still stuck in 'Nervous Nellie' land worrying about every little move she makes. I'm already edgy about the holiday activities we have to deal with. We were at my father's house this weekend, and Tia was in her crate. I can't leave her at home, because she's a little escape artist. Last week, I put her in the crate and ran to the grocery store. 15 minutes. Tops. When I got home, she was laying on her bed in front of the crate with the door bolts still locked. She pushed the door so hard it bowed enough to let the bolts slip out of the hooks. Lovely. So, where I go this season, she goes. That means my uncle's house on Christmas eve. Lots of people, lots of excitement, and Tia in her crate. Then Mom's on Christmas day. Lots of people, 2 dogs, 4 million cats, TONS of excitement, and Tia in her crate. Can't wait!