Tatonka Post-Surgery

Here’s the 6 week Tatonka update! This is my 3rd blog post about this darling male Nigerian Dwarf goat.

If you missed the first two posts, check them out now:

Tatonka has undergone a 2-part surgery (by Dr. Hannah Muelller, at Cedarbrook Veterinary Care), to attempt to correct his severe limb deformities. The prognosis is uncertain, but the hope is that Tatonka will gain functional use of his legs.

Surgery #1 was on June 21st– to cut the tendons that were hyperextending Tatonka’s hocks and pulling up the toes of his hind legs.

Surgery #2 was on June 24th– to cut the flexor tendons that were holding his front legs in a bent position.

Immediately post-surgery, Tatonka recovered well from the sedation, and within hours was standing with assistance and grazing.

Here is a video clip from June 26th (from the New Moon Farm Goat Rescue & Sanctuary Facebook page):

Tatonka 2 days after surgery, chewing on flowers

Last night was difficult for Tatonka. He’s still in a lot of pain. Ellen wrote,

“Baby goat is having a rough time. Flailing around and crying out. Screams every time I put him down, and only settles when I hold him. Hoping the meds kick in soon, poor guy.”

As of today, I’m told that Tatonka wants to be held all the time. Put him down and he starts to cry! Can’t blame him, really. He’s just a baby without his momma.

I really had it rough today, helping do the holding. (Yeah, right!!) It was pure joy.

If you would like to make a donation toward Tatonka’s veterinary bills, you can make a donation at the New Moon Farm Goat Rescue & Sanctuary website. Every bit helps!