Check ligamnet in back legs of shetland - is this likely to be a long term problem?

[**Vanner**]

Hi all - after some advice.

My sister has been offered a young shetland for her daughter. He is three years old and has had a check ligament injury, apparently from rearing up at his companion. He is sound but his hock appears to 'click' when he walks.

I believe this is quite common in shetlands. Has anyone experienced it?

Are we looking at it becoming arthritis fairly rapidly?

The owner has said the vet says it will not get worse but i'm not sure - surely any movement in a joint is not a good thing.

Cheers in advance

 

[**Vanner**]

Bump - I could really do with some advice before she ploughs in

 

[gunnergundog]

There is no check ligament in the hind legs, so if you're being told that the check injury is in a hind you're being told a load of porkies.....sorry!

 

[debsflo]

do you mean locking stifle ,if so this is quite common and they generally grow out of it . my 3yr old mini has a similar problem which is usually worse in winter due to mud i presume.

 

[The Fuzzy Furry]

Sounds like locking stifle to me - or stringhalt.
Have seen stringhalt in several shetties (tho not recently), not usually a major prob tho. Could be operated on if got really bad, but careful working can still make them useful.

 

[**Vanner**]

Thanks guys - i wasn't convinced by it just seemed like there are gaps.

It is interesting that people are suggesting he might grow out of it. He's well bred and has a super temperament so we are tempted.