Luxating Patella

[octobersongs]

I apologize if this is a duplicate post from someone else's thread about their dog. I wanted to start another for more of a response and not hijack his thread.

My little guy was just diagnosed with LP in both back legs. I'm told since he's so small at 4 lbs, 2 years old, he doesn't need surgery yet. I'm going back to the vet to ask more questions once I learn a bit about what LP is. I'm wondering if anyone has used any joint supplements or walking at an incline to strengthen? Is that even an option at this point? I wonder how vets can estimate how long he will have before arthritis sets in? As I said, he's 2 years old, playful, active..etc. I'm so worried.

He's never been one for walks. We usually have to carry a tennis ball along so he will attempt to walk. Could this have something to do with LP? Maybe it's causing him pain? The vet said he didn't think he was in any pain, but my yorkie has never been one to whine or yelp when in discomfort. He usually stays pretty quiet. Should we avoid walks now?

Also, can anyone recommend a good pet insurance company that will cover this? Technically it hasn't been documented yet.

[BabyGirl Rosie]

My Mikki is 4 lb and 3 years old. She has LP in her back legs too. At this point my vet is not recommending surgery either. At this point we haven't used supplements. I do notice if she goes on long walks she will stop and sit down. I'm thinking that she is feeling discomfort when she does this so I pick her up. Overall, she doesn't indicate any pain. I don't think you have to avoid walks just watch your baby and see if you notice any issues.

[pstinard]

Hi, I can only address part of your questions. I'm sure others will chime in, though. My Bella was diagnosed with luxating patella after I noticed her walking on three legs a lot. She has luxating patella in both hind legs, but it was more severe in the one she kept off the floor. Bella weighs six pounds, and the vet said that she didn't need to be operated on right away since arthritis can take a year or two to set in, but I didn't want to take any chances and had her operated on right away. Three months later, she has made almost a complete recovery in the operated leg--she uses all four legs the vast majority of the time. I was told that she will not need surgery on her other leg unless it starts bothering her. So, my advice is, if your dog seems to have trouble walking with one or both hind legs, it's better to have surgery sooner than later, especially if this is something that has been going on for a long time. Also, avoid slipping and sliding on smooth floors and jumping on and off furniture--ligament tears could happen as a result, and that would make things much worse. If you finally do decide on surgery, find a board certified orthopedic surgeon with lots of experience with this kind of surgery. Good luck!

[chestermama]

advanced mobility from opaws is a great supplement

[107barney]

You can't get pet insurance for a pre-existing condition, even if it is not officially documented.

As for supplements, I would do an omega 3 fatty acid supplement provided that your dog can tolerate fat added to the food. Some people like the supplement Cosequin.