luxating patella

[Emilieu]

Hi
I have just discovered that two out of five of the pups from the same litter as my pup have been diagnosed with this, are the chances very high that my pup will also have it? Is there anything i should do beyond keeping a very close eye for symptoms? He is a chihuahua, about to turn one. Happy and healthy so far.

 

[jumbyjack]

I would think very high! My Parson Russell has the problem on both legs, her leg used to lock out straight and she would yelp. Picking her up seemed to drop the affected leg down and it would pop back in. She would be instantly sound and in fact never showed any lameness. I did have her xrayed to confirm diagnosis but refused surgery as she is a bit mental and would have sabotaged recovery. Diagnosis was at 8 months, she is now two and shows no outward signs apart from the occasional yick when she scratches her ear! You could always have your little dog xrayed then you would know for sure but I wouldn't rush into surgery. Controlled exercise and no jumping on and off furniture would be the way forward if he does have a problem.

 

[AmyMay]

Daisy has it mildly in both hinds. We see the occasional 'hop', but thankfully nothing major. I keep her nice and fit, so hopefully there will be no decline in the condition. She'll be two in Jan.

If you've seen no sign of it in your little dog, then I wouldn't worry, op.

 

[Bellasophia]

http://www.2ndchance.info/patella.htm
It's very good that there are no signs at present,despite two in same litter being positive for this condition.
You are aware of the condition,so keep an eye on his walking,watch out for any skipping or odd gait...
Keep his weight down,lean is best...
Keep toenails short,regularly clipped,
You may want to consider glucosamine supplement in diet...
Otherwise enjoy your dog!!

 

[okepunya]

I would think very high! My Parson Russell has the problem on both legs, her leg used to lock out straight and she would yelp. Picking her up seemed to drop the affected leg down and it would pop back in. She would be instantly sound and in fact never showed any lameness. I did have her xrayed to confirm diagnosis but refused surgery as she is a bit mental and would have sabotaged recovery. Diagnosis was at 8 months, she is now two and shows no outward signs apart from the occasional yick when she scratches her ear! You could always have your little dog xrayed then you would know for sure but I wouldn't rush into surgery. Controlled exercise and no jumping on and off furniture would be the way forward if he does have a problem.

Yeah,, i think so

 

[BSL]

Mine is a too long winded story. Obviously listen to your vet. However, watch your dog, let them tell you. If your Chi is anything like ours, he/she will tell you if they are uncomfortable. As stated before, don't rush surgery..

 

[Emilieu]

Thanks guys - and thank you for the link Bellasophia. One of his siblings has had the surgery, the other is going for hydrotherapy as it has been caught early. He has never shown a hint of unsoundness or yelped unexpectedly or anything, even after long walks with the 'big dogs', and the vet says he is perfect so i will just keep my fingers crossed and eyes peeled.