Pet orthotics refers to the use of orthotics for pets. Orthotics is an allied health care field concerned with the design, development, fitting, and manufacture of orthoses. Orthoses, sometimes called braces or splints, are devices that support or correct musculoskeletal deformities and/or abnormalities of the body. Animals that might benefit from the use of an orthosis commonly have an injury to a lower limb or paw, such as a fracture, torn meniscus, ruptured Achilles tendon, or injured cruciate ligament (ACL or CCL). They may also have an orthopedic condition due to arthritis, spinal cord injury, or a congenital abnormality. Animals that have used orthoses and prostheses (artificial limbs) include dogs, cats, horses, llamas, and an orangutan. Each animal's situation is unique and should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Orthoses Orthoses can decrease pain and increase stability in an unstable joint, as well as prevent potential progression or development of a deformity or contracture. An orthosis will prevent, control or even assist the motion of a joint, depending upon how it is made. An orthosis can be made for short-term use during a post-operative healing period, for example, or for long-term chronic use. They can provide a good quality of life for an animal that might otherwise have to be euthanized. With a few exceptions, orthoses for animals are custom-made from a cast. They are typically formed from lightweight plastic or carbon fiber material with a comfort liner inside and velcro to hold them in place. They may have solid joints or hinged joints. An orthotic differs from a prosthetic in that a prosthetic completely replaces a missing limb or body part, whereas an orthotic is an external device that is meant to help support or protect a limb or body part. The most common orthotic, especially for dogs, are booties. They have a wide range of uses for the dog, including traction while getting up or walking on slippery surfaces such as hardwood or tile flooring. They can especially help dogs with hip issues and dogs with neurological conditions who are less aware of their self-movement (proprioception). Another form of orthotic is a leg brace that can improve stabilization for issues caused by age, worn-out bones in the foot, or ectrodactyly. This is the deficiency of one or more central digits of the foot, causing the animal's foot to become deformed. Proper support is necessary or more serious health issues