I'm 3 weeks post op and I'm going horseback riding tomorrow.

I didn't ask anybody (MD) if I could...

I'm not really sure what I can and can't do at this point in recovery.

I just think I'm well enough to do it.

Can anybody think of a good reason why not?

We have a dog that has been gone for a week and he licked up some chlorine (sp?) crystals (as a guy who was working on our pool spilled some) and I want to go ride the places where I think he might be.

He might have just gone into the woods and died????

Oh, how very sad about your dog! I don't know if you should ride the horse or not - why not call your doctor just to ask him/her if it is safe? I, personally, wouldn't want much jostling . . . and as they say, the first 6 weeks are really about healing.

I'm so sorry about your dog All I would say about the riding, is if you choose to do it be very careful getting on and of - I would use a mounting block for sure. I am about three weeks out too, and I think I could perhaps ride if I went slowly and was, like I said, REAL careful getting on and off. I hope you find your dog and he's ok.

Can anybody think of a good reason why not?

Im sorry to hear about your dog but to answer your question

If it were me I would wait ..I would hate to fall of the horse and risk my port flipping or band slipping. I was told no strenuous exercise or activity for 6 weeks until my band set in place and my port incision had time to heal and build up scar tissue to lessen the risk of it fliping or my band slipping. Just my opinion on it all

Mercedes,

I understand the temptation to go look for the dog. I am not too sure I would not do the same thing. Is there no one else who can go look? How old is the dog? Dogs usually come home after a day or so. Or at least mine do. I have not read the warnings on pool chemicals. Read it and see what it says. It does not sound too good if the dog has not returned after a week. If you go be real careful and take it slow. I would call my doctor also.

I would hate to have something happen to you. Is there somebody who could go with you?? Chances are you could do it and be alright and then again something could happen.

I am so sorry about your Dog..

Gosh, Id have to suggest NOT riding a horse this soon after surgery. Things havent completely healed inside - and Id rather be safe then sorry. A little graphic here, but try some other search thing that will not jiggle around your guts.

What about putting on your walking shoes and just walking it? Would that be possible?

I sure hope doggie is ok, please keep us posted.

I hope you find your dog but don't over do it. I rode motorcycle around town at 4 weeks and that was all I could handle. I wasn't comfortable doing any more or going out of town/faster, etc. Don't damage yourself or risk having problems. Find help. People are always willing to help if you ask (I know its tough).

Good luck - I will have you and your dog in my prayers.

Hey guys!

I went out with my 8yr old and I'm telling you what, the walk out to the barn was harder than the ride. We have a steep hill and I usually drive it but my car tire was flat! We rode to where I figured he (the doggie) might be, and he was! All safe and sound and alive visiting his previous owners! As soon as he saw us he jumped up an followed us home as I knew he would.

The ride didn't bother me a bit (I am used to it) and my trusty steeds are mellow and kind. It was only about a mile and a half so it was easy on me.

If I'd walked it, it would have been harder on me than riding because of all the hills.

Now that my dog is fine, I'll be good and wait my other 2 weeks before I ride or do anything questionable again.

Just so ya'll know, I was in my horseback riding class for PE at 1 week out, riding at 2 weeks out. The riding part was fine, it was picking the horses' feet that was difficult for me.

And yes, I had the blessings from a must amused/bemused surgeon.

Thats wonderful news mercedes ! Glad to hear doggie is ok. Stay of the horse for a little bit more....