What are the types and grades of luxating patella?
Approximately 75% of dogs with a luxating patella will have a medial patellar luxation. The remaining 25% of dogs will have a lateral patellar luxation. In some cases of lateral luxation, the dog may also have a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament.
During a physical examination, your veterinarian will grade your pup’s luxating patella based on the location of the patella when the leg is at full extension. There are four grades of luxating patella, and they are as follows:
If recovery is progressing well, at about 6 – 8 weeks you can start exercising your dog off leash. You may want to do this once you have progressed your dog from a short lead to a long lead initially. Try to prevent your dog running or playing with other animals.
For the first four weeks, try to restrict your pet to slow walks on a lead if you go outside the house. Begin with a slow three-minute walk once a day just for toileting and some air. Maintain the highest level of rest until you are given the go ahead from your vet to allow an increase.
This routine should be repeated 10 or more times every walk as it helps build up the hind leg muscles, which is highly important in your pet’s rehabilitation. If you have further questions regarding any aspect of post-operative care, don’t hesitate to call us at one of our practices and our friendly staff will help you in any way they can.
As well as increasing the walking time for your dog over the following months, it’s highly recommended that you also do some sit and stand exercises with your dog. Sit and stand exercises can be done during leash walks simply by commanding your pet to “sit” and, just before it assumes the sitting position, the “walk- on” command is given.
Does my dog really need surgery?
As much as we don’t like the idea of a surgery, sometimes it can help improve your dog’s quality of life whether now or in the future. In my case, my left knee popped in and out so easily, it would eventually wear out my cartilage, causing arthritis. Although I can still walk well most of the time, it would be too late once I develop arthritis, which is extremely painful and incurable. There is also a chance that this condition may lead to a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament.
On the brighter side, there are some dog owners who told mama that their dogs lived with luxating patella all their lives without problems. It all comes down to individual situations, such as the severity of the condition. Hence, it’s best to consult a trusted vet (or two) before making a decision.