Jack's-Jane
Wise Old Thumper
I often receive PMs asking for advice re suitable dressings for sore hocks. So I thought it might be helpful if I posted this for anyone interested.
*It is ALWAYS ESSENTIAL to consult your Vet if you have a Rabbit with sore hocks. Sometimes dressings are not appropriate and may cause more harm than good. Also, it is importnat to try to establish WHY the Rabbit has developed sore hocks *
Here is an example of an anti-pressure dressing that I use for Lady Lydia
Non-shedding cotton wool pads
Micropore Tape
Woven Stretch Bandage
Fabric Strapping
First cut a hole in the centre of 2 cotton pads
The sore area of the hock should be exposed by the hole, making a sort of corn plaster. Then cover the two pads with one pad with NO hole cut in it.
Secure pads to Rabbit's hock using micropore tape. Try to only have MINIMAL contact between fur and adhesive tape
Also, take care to insure that no tape cuts into the skin where the leg bends.
Then apply the woven bandage dressing and secure it using the fabric strapping
The bandage should not be too tight. It is VERY important that any dressing remains clean and dry. It should be changed at least daily, more if it becomes damp/soiled. Pay close attention that the Bun's toes dont become swollen, a sign that the bandage is too tight. Should this happen remove the dressing IMMEDIATELY and consult your Vet again before applying another one.
Please remember that this advice is from a Bunny Care-Giver, NOT a Vet/VN. It should NEVER be used without prior discussion with the Vet treating your Rabbit.
Finally, special thanks to the co-operative patient, Alfie Moon
*It is ALWAYS ESSENTIAL to consult your Vet if you have a Rabbit with sore hocks. Sometimes dressings are not appropriate and may cause more harm than good. Also, it is importnat to try to establish WHY the Rabbit has developed sore hocks *
Here is an example of an anti-pressure dressing that I use for Lady Lydia
Non-shedding cotton wool pads
Micropore Tape
Woven Stretch Bandage
Fabric Strapping
First cut a hole in the centre of 2 cotton pads
The sore area of the hock should be exposed by the hole, making a sort of corn plaster. Then cover the two pads with one pad with NO hole cut in it.
Secure pads to Rabbit's hock using micropore tape. Try to only have MINIMAL contact between fur and adhesive tape
Also, take care to insure that no tape cuts into the skin where the leg bends.
Then apply the woven bandage dressing and secure it using the fabric strapping
The bandage should not be too tight. It is VERY important that any dressing remains clean and dry. It should be changed at least daily, more if it becomes damp/soiled. Pay close attention that the Bun's toes dont become swollen, a sign that the bandage is too tight. Should this happen remove the dressing IMMEDIATELY and consult your Vet again before applying another one.
Please remember that this advice is from a Bunny Care-Giver, NOT a Vet/VN. It should NEVER be used without prior discussion with the Vet treating your Rabbit.
Finally, special thanks to the co-operative patient, Alfie Moon