Colin the rooster has both osteo-myelitis and arthritis, and has been on pain management for the last little while. Between Christmas and New Year, however, we noticed his symptoms advancing, and that he had stopped walking. On examining him, we found his left leg - which was originally the better of the two - had also worsened, and we knew he needed our help.
We rushed him to the only doctor we could find open at that time of year, Unusual Pets in Buderim.
Here it was recommended that he have surgery to remove some of the painful digits along with the diseased bone, which will return him to an acceptable level of mobility.
During surgery fragments were also removed and sent for testing to make sure that the condition isn’t bone cancer related. At this time his liver and kidney indicators are in the normal range, quite something considering the amount of pain management he is on.
We are happy to announce that Colin is now home, sporting new rooster 'sandals' and enjoying his life around the house, even spending some time at our feet under our desk! This from a rooster with a history of being quite outspoken about humans keeping out of his personal space!
We suspect Colin will be unable to compete in group housing with other roosters, so we are enjoying getting to know him even more as he recovers, and keeping him safe.
Colin's surgery cost $2500 and we are so grateful for our supporters for allowing us to continue to care for Colin and allow him to grow old without pain and with dignity.
On a checkup on 11th January Colin's doctor was very happy with his mobility and how his wounds were healing. With his feet now re-bandaged in a way that it is easier for him to walk, he is expected his surgery wounds to heal about 28 days from surgery.
