Dogs are beloved family members, and it can be heartbreaking to learn that your pup has a health issue. One common issue among canines is a luxating patella, which is otherwise known as a slipped kneecap. While it is a serious issue, a dog can still lead a full and happy life with this condition. In this blog post, we will discuss the symptoms of a luxating patella and how to manage the condition in your pup. We will also examine what life could be like for your pup if he is diagnosed with the condition and how you can help him live a comfortable and enjoyable life. With the right care and attention, your pup can have a good quality of life despite having a luxating patella.
Can a luxating patella cause long-term problems?
The severity of the luxation and whether both legs are affected equally will determine this. The greater the grade, the greater the chance that your dog will experience persistent issues. However, as the dog ages, arthritis sets in and causes not only decreased mobility but also joint pain. Some dogs, especially those with Grade I patellar luxation, can tolerate this condition for many years, if not their entire lives. Once arthritis develops, it cannot be reversed.
Additionally, patellar luxation puts the knee at risk for other injuries, particularly torn cruciate ligaments (for more information, see the handout “Cruciate Ligament Rupture in Dogs”).
Dog Breeds Most Susceptible to Patella Luxation
Dogs are born with patella luxation, which is a congenital condition. Large breeds like Akitas and Great Pyrenees may be more susceptible to patella luxation, according to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. However, the majority of the time it affects toy breeds, like:
According to Conkling, there are three main developmental problems that affect dogs with patella luxation. “First, the kneecap may pull to the outside of the leg if the soft tissues supporting it are too tight on the inside and too loose on the outside. Second, the thigh bone’s groove is frequently too shallow, preventing the kneecap from having a deep place to rest. Last but not least, if the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shin bone is too far inward, it may want to pull the kneecap over. “.
Due to pet parents’ early observation of a problem with their furballs’ gait, patellar luxation is frequently diagnosed in puppies. During a physical examination, veterinarians can feel and see it, and they can grade it based on how severe it is.
The kneecap usually remains in the correct position. When it does pop out, it quickly moves back to the proper spot.
The kneecap pops out of place more frequently at this stage even though it is generally still in the correct position.
The kneecap is typically out of the groove at this point, but it can be manually reset. However, it pops right back out.
At this level of severity, the kneecap is permanently out of place and cannot be pushed back into the proper position.
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In dogs, luxating patellas, in which the kneecap shifts from its normal position, are very typical. Although all dog breeds can develop a luxated patella, small or toy breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire terriers, and Pomeranians are more susceptible.
A luxating patella may occasionally be treated with medication and physical therapy. However, if your dog’s condition is serious and causes them a lot of pain, surgery might be required.
FAQ
What happens if you don’t fix a luxating patella?
Luxating patella in any dog should ALWAYS be treated. Without intervention, the patella’s repeated insertion and removal from the patellar groove will wear down the cartilage in the knee and eventually result in bone-on-bone contact, which can be excruciatingly painful and result in long-term joint damage.
Can a dog live a normal life with luxating patella?
A luxating patella can be tolerated by dogs, especially if it is a low grade one. However, if the condition is left untreated and progresses to a grade 3 or 4, your dog could experience pain and discomfort. There are treatment options that can usually restore the patella to its normal position.
Can a luxating patella correct itself?
The patella can luxate either manually or spontaneously when the stifle bends. Until the patella is manually replaced or until it spontaneously returns to the trochlear groove with active stifle extension, the patella is luxated. Patella is continuously luxated but can easily be manually replaced.
How can I help my dog with patellar luxation?
Depending on the severity of the condition, there are various treatment options for luxating patellas in dogs, ranging from conservative medical management to surgery. The majority of grade I and grade II cases are treated with painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, weight control, and exercise restriction.