Assembly & Usage Instructions
How to Fit Splint to Your Pet
The Walkin’ Fit Adjustable Splint provides you the ability to change the joint angle and width of the splint. It’s important to remember the first adjustment made MUST be the angle.
Step One: Undo all Velcro straps so you can easily test fit the splint as you go along. It’s best to Velcro the straps to themselves off to one side.
Step Two: Slightly loosen both black knobs on either side of the splint to adjust the angle. The splint adjusts in 10-degree increments. Most pet’s natural REAR hock angle will likely be on the middle notch, marked 30 degrees, which is about 135 degrees. Most pet’s natural FRONT carpal joint angle will likely be on the second notch marked 10-degree angle, which is about 170 to 180 degrees. Again, every pet’s confirmation will vary. Set the splint joint angle to best fit your pet’s natural stance referencing the non-splint leg if needed. Retighten the black knobs to secure once the angle has been adjusted.
Step Three: Test fit the splint to check angle and width.
Step Four: If you need to widen the splint, follow instructions. If the splint width does not need to be adjusted, proceed to step six.
Step Five: To widen the splint, you want to make small, even adjustments on each screw starting from the top and work your way down the splint so it widens evenly. Use the Allen key provided to do so. Loosen each screw slightly, the splint will widen the more you loosen the screws.
Step Six: Test fit splint on your pet until the width is right. Once required width is set, hold splint at new width while you slightly tighten screws to secure.
Step Seven: Now that your splint is all set and adjusted for your pet, you can secure straps.
Step Eight: Place leg in splint. Starting at the bottom with the paw, Velcro all straps to secure splint on the leg. Check for any areas of rubbing or incorrect fit. The leg should fit snugly in the splint without rubbing or areas of skin hanging over or pinched in the splint. If you’re now ready to go, reference the usage tab for instructions on how to slowly get your pet moving in the splint. If you’re having trouble fitting the splint, please contact one of our customer service representatives.
How to Introduce a Splint to Your Pet
It’s important to remember that any splint placed on a pet’s foot will need to be removed at bedtime, and should be removed for at least an hour during the day to allow the foot to breathe.
When introducing a new splint to a pet, it’s important to start slowly. Positive reinforcement methods, using praise, treats, or toys should always be used in association with the splint. The splint will initially make the pet walk “funny” or maybe not want to walk at all. Using positive reinforcement to encourage walking is always the best approach.
Day One: Place splint on pet for 10-15 minutes at a time, then remove. Try these short sessions 3 to 4 times during Day One. Once the splint is removed, look for any areas of irritation or rubbing on the pet’s skin that may have been caused by the splint. If you notice an area of rubbing, please consult one of our customer service representatives for fitting assistance and your Veterinarian with any medical concerns. It’s more important to make sure the pet is comfortable with the splint and the fit is correct tan to rush the process. Continue with these short sessions until your dog adjusts. If you are concerned that the fit isn’t correct, please contact our customer service department or consult with your Veterinarian.
Day Two: If your pet is having a hard time adjusting to wearing the splint, continue with the short 10-15 minute sessions, as described in Day One. If your pet seems to be walking a little better and is getting used to the splint, then it’s time to increase the session length a bit.
Place splint on for 15-30 minutes at a time, then remove. Try these sessions 3 to 4 times during Day Two. Again, look for any signs of discomfort, and respond accordingly.
Day Three: If your pet is still having a hard time, continue with the short 10-15 minute sessions, as described in Day One. If the pet seems to be walking a little better than in Day Two and is getting used to the splint, then it’s time to increase session length again.
Place splint on for 30-60 minutes at a time, then remove. Try these sessions 3 to 4 times during Day Three. Once again, look for any signs of discomfort, and respond accordingly.
Ongoing: Once the pet is able to comfortably wear the splint for 4 hours or more in the day, and no areas of rubbing or irritation are present, it’s all right to increase wear time to almost a full day, if needed. If you are unsure how long the splint should be worn based on your dog’s medical condition, it’s always best to consult with your Veterinarian.