Quote:
Originally Posted by gemy  Just wqnted to chime in, mild Lp and sometimes even moderate LP, is often times well managed with weight control, good sensible exercise, and jumping restrictions.
I feel like a broken record sometimes, but swimming is the best exercise bar none, for any dog with joint problems, anywhere.
With Yorkies it is so easy to provide a swimming and fun environment. A kiddy pool, the bathtub etc.
You can look at some joint supplements Talk to your vet about them for joint health. |
Ivan and Iris both had LP surgery. Iris had both knees done and Ivan still has one bad knee that he has not had surgery on. I know many people are able to manage the LP with weight and jumping restrictions. It's great if the dog is not suffering and can avoid surgery. I wish we had been able to but, for our two, surgery was what was needed and I'm glad we did it for them.
I strongly agree with the advice to do swim therapy. We did this after the LP surgery as part of their recovery and it was very helpful. We probably should keep it up as part of their regular exercise and this is a good reminder.
I agree with the advice to keep an eye on weight and avoid jumping, but would add that regular vet visits to keep an eye on the progression of the LP is a good idea too. If possible, have a board certified orthopedic vet do regular checks. We take Ivan in every 6 months for follow up visits so the surgeon can keep and eye on both knees. In Ivan's case, it was hard to tell how uncomfortable he was with the one knee that he had surgery on. The specialist was able to point out many symptoms that we were not aware of. For Iris, she had stopped using one of her legs and was not responding to any other treatment.
If Mikki has a mild case, I hope you will be able to avoid surgery for her. So many of our dear Yorkies have LP.
08-15-2011, 08:20 PM
