Hi Jo.
Should it transpire that the buster collar is the only option, then get a thin bandage and cut four small lengths off it.
Now tie the buster to the neck collar at four equidistant points ( one through the ring for the lead ). Make sure the collar is attached shortly enough that it won't fall over her head.
That usually works.
Many thanks for your kind thoughts and your continued interest. Kitty is progressing well and although one of the stitches is a bit irritated the vet is not overly concerned. She is feeling happy in herself and is enjoying her food and her trips to the garden.
He has approved the trial of a breathable dressing and this seems to be much more comfortable for her. It is held in place by tape and a baby sock. He has also approved the use of Johnsons Veterinary Anti-Chew Training Spray, which is often used to stop both self-harming and interference with injuries (I used this to great effect when Kitty first came home and redesigned all my furniture!). I have sprayed this on her sock and so far this seems to be working. It is recommended that I put either her bootee or her muzzle on overnight so I can get a good night's sleep. So far this all seems to be working well, so with any luck we will not need to resort to a buster collar.
We have a further appointment on Monday to check progress, and provided there are no problems we can continue with this method of treatment. The stitches will probably be removed next Friday or the following Monday.
As of yesterday we are allowed to go for short walks. Yesterday was foul and Kitty wanted to go further. Today was lovely and she refused to walk!
I will update you all next week via this forum. In the meantime please keep your fingers crossed.
Here is an update for Kitty, and I'm delighted to be able to say that we did not need to resort to a buster collar. The baby sock and bootie worked very well, and Kitty did not try to interfere with it. I changed the socks every few days as they did get a bit dirty and I was worried about possible infection. The Johnson Anti-chew Spray was effective initially, but she did become insensitive to it, so I changed to Bob Martin Chew Stop Spray, which certainly did the trick. It smelt vile, so what it tasted like I dread to think, but it certainly worked.
The wound healed very well and the stitches were removed this morning. Unless there are any problems we will not need any further appointments. I have been advised to use the sock for a few more days as licking could cause problems and Kitty is a great licker! But she is comfortable, happy and playful, and it will be good to allow her some longer walks again.
Thanks again to all those who replied to my first email asking for advice. Your suggestions were most helpful.
Thanks so much for the update Jo and well done Kitty! These are all useful tips for everyone as few greyhounds escape minor (or sometimes major) injuries and appropriate aftercare can make all the difference to a successful and timely outcome.
