Adjustable Splint Pro Kit

How long should the Walkin’ Fit Adjustable Splint be worn?

Splints are not designed to be left on pets for extended periods. Patients should be introduced to the splint slowly until they are comfortable. Guide clients through the process with the Patient Resource Guide: How to Introduce a Splint to Your Pet

How do I use the Walkin’ Adjustable Splint?

Injuries to the lower limb of small animals often need to be splinted or braced. These splints can be used on the lower front or rear leg for stability and support and are available in a full range of sizes to accommodate comfortably. Inform your clients that pets should always be supervised when using the splint.

Where do I put the splint?

The Walkin’ Fit Adjustable Splints are placed on the back of the rear or front leg and held in place by padded touch fastener closure straps. They extend about halfway up the leg. The bottom of the splint extends entirely under the paw to provide weight-bearing support. This is ideal for fractures, knuckling, and other ailments.

What are the splints made of?

Splints are made of hard plastic with a soft foam lining and a non-skid pad on the bottom. The non-skid pad will not work well on some slippery surfaces. Before using the splint, test it on the surface to ensure it will grip adequately.

How will I know if the splint fits well and how long to wear it?

Splints should be used only when recommended by a pet care professional who will determine whether the splint is appropriate, how long it should be worn, and what problems might occur that indicate that the splint’s use should be discontinued. Possible issues may include chafing, muscle atrophy, or extreme distress of the animal.

How should I introduce the splint to a pet?

The Walkin’ Fit Adjustable Splint is intended for professional use only. As a veterinary professional, we recommend that you do the initial fitting and guide your customer throughout their pet’s course of treatment. For at-home education, please refer to the Patient Resource Guide: How to Introduce a Splint to Your Pet for step-by-step instructions on how to begin using the splint.

How do I put the adjustable splint on my patient?

Initial splint fitting and adjustment should be completed with the guidance of a Veterinary Professional. Putting a thin sock on the leg before applying the splint is sometimes more comfortable for the dog. Splints should ideally be used on a standing animal. You may apply to an animal laying down. Just check the fit and retighten straps if needed when they stand up.

Make sure to make ALL width and angle adjustments with the brace off of the animal. Once the splint is correctly adjusted to fit, you may begin to place it on the animal. Starting at the bottom, place the foot flat in the bottom of the splint. Make sure that the toes do not extend over the bottom edge. Snug the bottom strap first and work your way up the splint. Check for a snug fit after the animal has taken a few steps. When tightened correctly, you should be able to fit a finger under each strap comfortably.

How do I know what angle to set the splint at?

The natural angle of the hock or Tarsal joint on the rear leg is about 30 degrees. The natural angle of the carpal joint or wrist on the front leg is about 10 degrees (this is much straighter than the rear leg). Remember every patient’s confirmation with vary. The splint angle should be set at a natural, comfortable position in most cases. You may reference the healthy leg as a guide to set the splint if needed.

How do I know what width to set the splint at?

The splint should be set to be slightly wider than a pet’s leg or paw. Allowing a small amount of room on either side will provide a secure fit without rubbing. You want to avoid having your pet’s leg rubbing the sides of the splint when walking and standing or too much room on either side, allowing the paw to move around in the splint.

My patient has a knee problem (ACL or Patella). Will a splint work for this dog?

No, splints will support the lower limb for the animal but will not go high enough to support the knee on the dog. A Walkin’ Wheels wheelchair can help lessen the pressure on a pet’s knee and make it easier for them to maintain normal activity levels without further injury.

My patient falls between sizes in your chart; should I order the larger size?

If your pet’s measurement falls between sizes, please call us at 1-866-578-2926, and our Veterinary Resources Team will help you to determine the correct size.

Can I change or remold the splint with heat?

No. The splint is adjustable in width and angle, so you will not need to reshape it. We do NOT recommend heating or modifying the splint in any way that could change the splint’s structural integrity.

Does the splint have any tread or soiling on the bottom so the dog will not slip?

Yes, the splints have a non-skid surface on the bottom. This non-slip pad should allow the patient to maintain traction and avoid slipping on slippery surfaces.

Do the splints have any padding inside, and can they be cleaned?

Yes, the splints are fully lined with foam and may be spot cleaned and left to air dry.