Luxating Patella Repair

Luxating Patella Repair

This type of problem usually occurs during the early stages of life, and is quite common. If afflicted by this condition, your pet will exhibit signs of a luxating patella within the first six months. This issue usually affects the following breeds: Pomeranians, dachshunds, poodles, Boston bulldogs, terriers, spaniels and labrador retrievers. Some veterinarians believe that these problems start out as hip problems, but not everyone agrees on that subject.

When your pet isn’t experiencing these kind of issues, the kneecap and the large bone of the thigh, also known as the femur, function perfectly. The kneecap or the patella is connected to the large thigh muscle with a strong ligament. Another ligament connects the patella to your pet’s shinbone. On the other hand – when your pet has problems – the patella jumps out of its normal position while the animal is moving, and in 90% of cases this bone jumps out to the inside. The reason behind this problem is usually genetics, and there are five different birth defects that explain why this happens – a trochlear can be too shallow; a ligament can be stretched, weakened or positioned too far from the shinbone; your pet’s knee could be locking up while it walks; or an injury may result in additional problems.

There are four different stages, according to the severity of a luxating patella – the first one would be where your pet doesn’t experience any discomfort, while the most severe one makes the pet feel quite uncomfortable while moving. The minute you notice that your pet is trying to avoid leaning on one of its legs, or if it has difficulties when it comes to crouching, walking or even lying down, you need to act quickly and take him to a vet. If you turn to us, we’ll be able to find an effective low cost solution that will relieve your pet from any kind of pain.