Dogs Cruciate Ligament Op done, still not using Leg

[S2Mike]

My 12 year old faithful friend ( terrier/staffy cross ) tore his cruciate ligament in a back leg almost 5 weeks ago, despite not being insured, I had to give him the operation to put him right. £ 860.00 , at the time I was told it was unlikely he would use that leg for about 4 weeks or so.
I think maybe I should now be trying to encourage some use. as he tends to "hop" everywhere, holding his leg up.
If you get him to turn round or walk backwards he uses the leg but all forward movement is on three legs, anyone got experience or advice on how to encourage him?

[S2Mike]

I had heard about hydro therapy but was under the impression that he would not begin using the leg for about 4 weeks, so had just kept him quiet in the garden poddling about, now thinking we should try something.
He is still on Tramadol, having finished Metacalm a week ago. Doesn't appear to be in any pain, even when stretching sometimes to look over worktops.
I massage his foot and leg while he is sat by me, hoping that will help him.
He seems just as fast over the ground on 3 legs only needing to stabilise occasionally with the "mended" leg.

[S2Mike]

Enquired around local to me, Warwickshire, seems £25 per session, does that sound about right, I presume each case is different but are we talking a long course or could 4 or 5 do the trick ??
Tried to take for walk last night as a bit cooler, but he hopped the whole way round and was knackered after only 100 yds or so.

[S2Mike]

Cheers guys, will have a chat with one of the hydro therapists and determine the way forward. Will try the massage at home though as he seems to like the attention and looks quite to be enjoying it.