Performance Dog Knee Brace | CCL-ACL Stifle | Dog Rear Leg Brace

Use and Care

Wipe down surfaces with isopropyl alcohol.

AOC Ready to Fit and Custom Braces are designed to be worn with a snug fit.  Wearing loosely will result in friction and skin irritation. The following will serve as a reference reminder when you have a general question regarding the wear and care of your pet’s braces.

Feel free to contact Animal Ortho Care with any further questions or concerns for the following braces:

AOC CUSTOM BRACES – 651-447-2411

PERFORMANCE READY TO FIT BRACES– 651-440-9321

EMAIL for BOTH BRACE TYPES – care@aocpet.com

Break-In Period

Similar to breaking in a new pair of shoes, the Braces must be worn in short, increasing increments in order to build up a tolerance to the device. Both the length of the break-in period and the time of each increment will depend on your pet’s diagnosis and should be discussed with your Animal Ortho Care practitioner and/or veterinarian. For best results, place the brace on your pet for only a HALF Hour the first day and increase by half-hour per day. If there is any irritation or skin break-down, discontinue use for ONE full day. A short period of time is required before your pet accepts the brace. In order to facilitate your pet’s acceptance of the brace, associate with positive reinforcement, such as a treat.

Skin & Brace Examination

It is of extreme importance that your pet’s skin is inspected thoroughly after every usage. This is especially important during the “break-in period.” The occurrence of skin redness does not disappear within 20 minutes or evidence of skin breakdown is a sign of excessive pressure. Any unusual marks on the skin, blisters, or excessive wearing of the device should also be noted. If any of the previously stated conditions present, discontinue the usage and contact Animal Ortho Care. Keep in mind, it is not uncommon to see minor problems within the first few weeks. These braces can easily be modified to relieve any areas of irritation. It is also important to inspect the brace regularly for any cracks or tears. Padding and Hook and Loop (“Velcro”) can be replaced by contacting Animal Ortho Care.

Proper Hygiene

It is important to keep both the skin in contact with the brace as well as the brace itself be kept clean.  This will reduce the chance of your pet contracting contact dermatitis or other skin conditions. Your pet’s brace should be cleaned regularly using a mix of half water-half alcohol and a clean towel. Use a towel or let the brace dry at room temperature. Do not use a hairdryer to speed up the process.  Cotton socks have been provided with Custom Braces only, except for very small braces and stifle (knee) braces, to help with excessive sweating and to keep the device clean. You can wash these with soap and warm water to keep clean. Never put a wet brace or cotton stockinet on your pet. Devices can be worn in the water.  They must be thoroughly dried after use, BEFORE re-applying. 

Application

Complete Application Steps are found with Instructions accompanying each type of Brace.  As a general principle, apply the lower section of Stifle (Knee), Tarsus (Achilles) and Carpal (Wrist) Braces First.  Align the axis point of the hinge or Tamarack with the pivot point of the Knee, Achilles or Wrist Joint, respectively.  For Ready to Fit Braces with Boa Closures, use your Thumb and Index Finger only to snug fit. 

Weekly – Check and Tighten as needed all screws as they may loosen with wear

Materials

• Outer Foam Layer – Loop-backed closed-cell foam
• Inside Thermoplastic Layer - Low-temperature thermoplastic
• Inner Foam Layer – Triple Thickness closed-cell foam
• Range of Motion (ROM) Hinges and Uprights – Lightweight aluminum
• Fidlock® Fasteners
• Hook and Loop – Highest grip rating