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View Full Version : Puppy with open fontanels


Tee
03-18-2006, 07:11 PM
Hi all!

I'm new to this forum, thought I'd post this in the hope someone out there is familiar with this condition. Here's my story:
My hubby surprised me with a Cockapoo 12 week old puppy. ADORABLE! I also have a spunky Australian Cattledog, and in the past a sweet Golden and a smart German Shorthair Pointer mix. But I've never had a little, huggable little girl (human or canine), so I quickly fell in love with little Sasha. When I took her to her first vet visit, we found out that her fontanels have not closed (she has two open fontanels), and also has strasbismus (lazy eye). The vet pretty much told us we should bring her back to the breeder......... because there is no guarantee that she will not develop another congenital neurological problem in the future. Or she may suffer an injury if she hits her head or something falls on it.
My heart was broken; I could not imagine what would become of her if I brought her back, and could not live with that on my mind...always wondering. So my husband and I decided (after many tears) that we'd keep her, and love her, and give her a good life. After all, there are no guarantees in life, and maybe she will not have any problems.
Did anyone ever experience or hear of this congenital abnormality? By the way, she is now 15 weeks old, and is soooo attached to me... she's very timid, but also very feisty with Abby (the ACD), and already sits, comes when called, and gives paw. In these short weeks, she has already given me so much love. My heart tells me, I've made the right decision.
Thanks, for "listening".
tee

dlambertz
03-18-2006, 09:52 PM
sometimes it does take a little longer ... i know in chihuahua's in particular the closing can be quite a bit longer. http://www.barkbytes.com/medical/med0087.html has a little short article. i am glad you kept your little girl. she sounds very special.

Jenny
03-19-2006, 07:29 AM
Hi Tee

Yes I have heard of this, it's more common than you would think. It happens just the same as it does to a babys head when they are first born.

They normally close within 2 to 3 months of birth however, if they dont it doesnt mean that the dog wont go on to live a normal healthy life. It tends to be the owners that worry as the dog isnt aware that she's a bit different.

I would say that you just need to be a little bit careful around her and try not to let her tear around the house like a nutter in case she bangs herself.

Hope this helps,

Jenny

ChipsDad
03-19-2006, 07:42 AM
do you have any pictures to post? i will see if i can find out...

Tee
03-19-2006, 06:39 PM
Thanks for your replies, yes, she is a sweet girl. I'll take some pictures and post them as soon as I can.

tee