[Erin]

Loki was diagnosed today with grade 2 LP. I already guessed this was the case and I am relieved it is grade 2 and not 3, although the vet said it might stay the same but could get worse. She did not recommend surgery at this time, and we don't need to confine him. She just suggested he not jump from extremely high places (he doesn't) and that he can't do agility. He can still do the weave and the tunnel though! I got some glucosamine & chondroitin and we'll check back with her in a month or two. We really like our vet and she always takes good care of Loki, so I'm not worried. What happens happens and they can fix it if they need to.

What really bugs me is that I called the breeder tonight. I let her know he has been diagnosed with LP. (He is 14 months old.) I didn't expect anything, except to give her the names of his parents so that she could OFA test them or check their lines/offspring for LP. She says she has not had problems and that a grade 2 is "no big deal". She said that all toy dogs and especially yorkies have "loose knees" Now, I'm not gullible enough to believe this although I admit I did not specifically ask this question when I got him. I asked SO many questions before I bought him and I thought she gave me very good answers. Even tonight she was interested in hearing about him and his training, color, size, personality, etc. I could tell that she wasn't feeding me crap but actually does not think that a grade 2 is a big deal. Now her lines have won many awards, they are breed standard (not tinies) and overall I honestly thought/think? she is a good breeder. But I DON'T understand how you can knowingly breed a dog with even a grade 1 LP and say it is acceptable? I feel so stupid because I thought I did so much research (and I did!) before I got him. I interviewed breeders. I waited and did not impulse buy. I knew what I wanted (I waited my whole life for him!) I am the first to educate someone on why not to buy from a pet store, on why to buy good food and on why to train your dog. I love learning more and doing research. I just can't believe this. I want my baby to be OK.

I'm interested on how all of you feel about this and if you've had similar experiences. I'd like to get Loki a little sister someday when we have a big fenced yard for them to play in and I don't want to make a mistake. I wouldn't trade Loki for anything! I just am so upset because it broke my heart this week to see Loki have to sit out of obedience class because his knee was acting up. I'm worried it will get worse. I love my little monster so much!