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Originally Posted by rdchris814  I took my 6 month old yorkie to the vet yesterday for a checkup and the vet said she grade 3-4 luxating patellas in both legs. I know LP's are common in yorkies, my other one has a mild grade 1 in her right leg. I was curious what other peoples thoughts and experiences are on a puppy so young and small (4lbs) have grade 4 LP's already. You wouldnt know she has them judging by the way she plays, runs, and jumps around. The vet said to just keep an eye on it, but odds are she'll eventually have to end up having surgery some day. He suggested waiting til at least she's full grown before getting it fixed. I would appreciate any comments and advice. Thanks |
It sounds like you have a good vet. It is a good idea if you can wait until they are a year old. My little Edward could not wait on his surgery. He also had a 3 in one leg and 4 in the other. Edward's leg would lock up and he got to a point where he could not correct it. You do not want to see your dog in that kind of pain. I would bring him with me everywhere I went so he would not be by himself when the leg lock up and he would be alone in pain. He had surgery before he was a year old and as soon as that healed the vet did surgery on the other leg. Performing the surgery early in his case was the right decision. A 3 & 4 is a serious evaluation in a 6 month dog. I agree with the previous posters that jumping can exacerbate the condition. Leash walking your dog at a steady pace will strengthen the muscles surrounding the leg and knee. The luxating patellas will still be present and require surgery but strengthening the muscles will help the dog if he jumps off furniture or in playing. Edward did great after the surgery and I am so glad we made that decision. Everything will be fine.