Jaci has a luxating patella

[alexis rose]

Jaci went in to get her shots updated, hertworm test and worming yesterday and the vet discovered she has a luxating patella. It is really mild and there is no pain for her yet but I am just devastated. She is around 5ish now and I don't know if I should go ahead with the surgery or just leave it be right now. I am just so worried!

[Deb's Tiny Dogs]

There are different grades of LP. 1-6. Typically, 3 and higher and a vet may start talking surgery.

My dog was a 4 and had the surgery last summer.

However, there are other things you can check into before opting for surgery and before lameness sets in (if it sets in). Not all dogs progress.

You may want to research something called prolo therapy for dogs. It's been used quite successfully in lieu of surgery.

Also, is your dog on a good quality chondroitan, msm and glucosamine for joints? I think this is a must. I order arthriease gold on-line and then get a pure msm from my holistic vet

[alexis rose]

Thanks Deb! Jaci is a grade 1. I have always had them on good food, vitamins and glucosamine.

I didn't know if it would progress or not. That was VERY helpful. I have read a lot of stuff on it and it doesn't really tell you much.

I will look into the prolo therapy. Thank you VERY much! This really means a lot!

[golden&hovawart]

Is he limping or favoring that leg, at all?
He is a young dog at 5 and the operation will be easier now,than later!.
I would keep him thin and add the missing link Plus!.
I would also let him swim or dog aquatherapy to muscle that leg!.

[alexis rose]

She isn't limping at all or even favor her leg.
Where can I buy the missing link plus? Can I only get it at the vet?
She is trim and muscular so weight isn't a problem. We do a lot of hiking and swimming in the summer. She is pretty lazy in the winter though, especially for a Staffordshire.
That does make sense to have the surgery while she is younger, but I am afraid to have her go through the surgery if it never gets worse. I need to talk to my vet more in depth about it. I am taking my German Shepherd in for her annual exam on Friday and I will talk to him more about it then.

[golden&hovawart]

I got it from Petsmart,4 days ago and can already see an improvement in my golden!.
this is a description of the missing link:
The Missing Link Save more with the economical 5 lb size.
The Missing Link Canine Plus Formula
with Health Supporting Nutrients.

For the overall health and well-being for All Breeds of Adult Dogs.
Healthy Joints
Sustained Energy Levels
Healthy Skin & Coat
Healthy Digestive System
Normal Weight
No Fillers
No Preservatives
No Artificial colorings or flavors.
All-in-one Superfood Supplement with added Glucosamine - The Missing Link targets the nutritional gap between what nature provides and what's available in commercial foods.

Missing Link Plus is formulated with the highest quality Glucosamine, and its synergy with naturally occuring essential fatty acids and flax lignans proves the ultimate in joint support. Our proprietary, patented cold - processing method ensures the freshest delivery of precious omega-3 fatty acids in combination with a broad spectrum of natural fiber, and phyto nutrients.

This Unique synergistic blend of the highest quality ingredients combines:
Essential fatty acids to support intercellular health, for absorption of fat soluble vitamins, and to maintain energy levels. Dietary Fiber to promote a healthy digestive system and normal cholesterol levels. Phyto (plant) nutrients to support general health. Glucosamine HCl for healthy joints.

Your dog will love the taste and love the results

[alexis rose]

Thank you I will definitely look into it! We don't have a Petsmart but I hope the local feed supply store has some. If not I will drive an hour and stock up!

[Cearbhaill]

If it was me and she was showing no symptoms, I would keep the dog as thin as is healthy and give her enough walking exercise on soft surfaces to keep her well muscled.
I would give high quality glucosamine/chondroitin (I personally recommend a liquid as it is very easily utilized ) and green mussel supplements.
I would not allow her to play roughly with other dogs or do much jumping, especially while running and twisting. No running on slick indoor surfaces at all- rugs are her friend.
I would also not allow her to stand on her back legs at all, as in looking over a fence or begging or asking to be on the sofa, etc.

The weight control is a very significant factor.

[luvin my dogs]

I did do the surgery twice, AND had the hardware removed.
IF I knew then what I know now, I would have maybe gone with confinement and inflammation and dasuquin (sp) and see where it led.
The surgeries we hard on both of us and recovery is tedious. I don't think Maven will ever be 100%, but would she have been had I confined her and gone on to therapy? I wish I had all of the answers, though if I did, I'd likely be kicking myself in the butt.
I have been there and done that and don't envy your position!

[alexis rose]

We are thinking that she may have surgery in Ocotober. Then it should be easier to keep her more confined than in the summer. I am going to talk to my vet more in depth about it on Friday.