HELP! FRACTURED SHOULDER

[mkc_uk]

My mini shetland had an x-ray on his right shoulder which shows he has a fracture due to arthritis. I have been told that this would have been hereditary. An option would be to have a metal plate put in and he would have to be box rested for 12 months after which they are not sure how he would cope and likened it to someone having a wooden leg. He would probably walk by swinging his leg outwards. He is only 2. Does anyone have any experience of this?
Also following on from above, vet suggests the kindest thing would be to have him put down. I am heart broken. The xray was taken yesterday and he is on bute for pain. If anyone has heard of this before any info would be greatly appreciated.

It was mentioned that he could have steriod injections but the vet wasn't prepared to do this as it can trigger laminitus.
I am having a second opinion next week as I am not convinced with the diagnosis. The other shoulder was x-rayed and looks fine. I wonder if anyone knows if arthritis would be sudden, as my thoughts were he had twisted his leg in a rabbit hole (something which I am constantly filling in). Thanks for reading, this is my first post and I am a complete newbie.

 

[christine48]

To be honest, if he already has a fracture due to arthritis at the age of 2, his future looks bleak.it is a lot to put him through with a guarded prognosis and there must be a very high chance of future problems with arthritis.
I know it's heartbreaking but he must be in a lot of pain and the kindest thing would be to PTS.

 

[Chloe-V]

So sorry to hear this. this is bad enough in an older horse, but in a youngster..........

I'd definitely get the second opinion and then you'll know for sure but if it comes to the same conclusion then I'm afraid I think the kindest thing would be to pts.

This is a very young horse to be starting out like this and if this is a hereditary condition then he'll have arthritis in other structures as well.

it's so hard, my thoughts are with you.

 

[Alec Swan]

To be honest, if he already has a fracture due to arthritis at the age of 2, his future looks bleak.it is a lot to put him through with a guarded prognosis and there must be a very high chance of future problems with arthritis.
I know it's heartbreaking but he must be in a lot of pain and the kindest thing would be to PTS.

What rotten news for you, but I have to say that I'm with the above poster on this one.

I also think that you're very lucky to have a vet who has given you a frank and presumably honest opinion, one based on the welfare of your horse, rather than the perceived bills which they may be able to issue.

Sorry, and again, it must be very difficult for you.

Alec.

 

[Box_Of_Frogs]

mkc_uk I'd definitely get a second opinion. It does sound an odd diagnosis for a 2yr old. I can't begin to think how the pony got that injury? Anyway, just wanted to add that if you get a 2nd opnion that confirms the diagnosis, I'm afraid I'd pts too. You may find that you have to pay a lot more for all veterinary procedures because of the tiny size of the bones etc in your wee pony. Not sure if he's a standard or miniature but either way you could face a huge vet bill for a very uncertain outcome. Friend ofmine had a small shettie that damaged its pastern. Needed surgery and they had to get the plate and screws specially made in Switzerland (or Sweden?). Not insured either :-( Poor wee soul x