These “paw long bones” commonly break after falls, getting a limb caught, or car/door injuries.

 

Many uncomplicated cracks can heal well in a splint, but surgery is advised when the fracture is unstable (several bones broken, big displacement, open wound, joint involvement, or when both front or both hind paws are injured).

 

When surgery is chosen, repairs are typically done through tiny incisions with pins and wires, mini-plates/screws, or external fixators.

 

With good technique and aftercare, most pets return to comfortable walking; published complication rates are generally low–moderate and differ by method and case complexity.