Here's What You Should Do If Your Pup Suffers From Luxating Patella

A dislocated or floating kneecap is referred to as patellar luxation, and it is a genetic condition that is seen in smaller breed dogs like Pomeranians, Yorkies, and chihuahuas.

However, it can happen in other breeds due to injury. Surgery is the most effective way to treat patellar luxation, but you can alter your pet’s routine to help the condition from being something that alters and negatively impacts their life. The genetic cause of the condition stems from shallow femoral grooves, which means the kneecaps isn’t cupped properly so it can drift out of place.

Ordinarily, dogs will get luxation in both legs, and it is common for one leg to be more severe than the other. Patellar luxations are graded from one to four. Grade one is when the kneecap pops out once and awhile but goes back on its own. Grade four is a permanent dislocation of the kneecap unless it is put back in place manually. Common symptoms include lameness, joint degeneration, and pain. Tips for healthy knees:

• Get your dog to a healthy weight, this will take pressure off their knees.
• Stay active. If they don’t use it, they will lose it! Have your dog exercise their knees with army crawling and going up and down carpeted stairs.
• Joint supplements may help your pet by providing support for healthy joints. Find a supplement with omega-3 fatty acids (like in krill oil) which can help reduce inflammation and protect cartilage from degradation. MSM, Glucosamine, and chondroitin are also involved with helping prevent the degeneration of joints.

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