Back leg problems!! - YorkieTalk.com Forums

Sassymae · 06-19-2012, 07:29 PM

In need of advice!!!
My 5 yr old Yorkie has always had trouble with her back leg. Years ago, I took her the vet & the vet told me her leg pops out of socket---& that its common in small dogs. Years later, I notice she STILL has trouble with that leg. Lately, it seems to be a bit worse.
She cant jump, & I've noticed when she's laying down & tries to stand up, she wont put pressure on it until she starts walking.

Once shes up, she DOES walk on it. She doesnt squeel when I touch it, doesnt cry or whine at all.
Can anyone relate to this issue? Any advice??
I'm planning on taking her to the vet, again. But I definetly wanted to get some opinions first!! Wouldn't she would cry/ whine if she was in pain????

Please help! It breaks my heart to see my baby in pain

yorkieusa · 06-19-2012, 07:32 PM

Luxating patella. Take her to a specialist, not a regular vet, but a surgeon who does leg surgeries. There are different techniques that surgeons do. They can tell you what your options are. Don't be afraid to do it. You can give her a better quality of life.

BabyGirl Rosie · 06-19-2012, 07:39 PM

Was she diagnosed with LP? Did they give you what grade it was? My Mikki has LP and she is a grade 3. We recently had a scare with her. I think as time goes on, LP can get worse. And can lead into surgery. Yes, it can be very painful for them. They are tougher than you think. Mikki's recent incident I would not have known she was hurt if she hadn't been limping. She never made a sound. Just kept her one leg up and limped around. You need to take her in to the vet and discuss LP and what her options are.

Some suggestions:

1. Minimize all jumping ( which is hard to do)
2. If you have doggie stairs use them for her to get up and down on beds, couches, etc.
3. Find out if there is any meds you can get for her until the vet can determine if surgery is needed.

I know there are more. Maybe some others can think of some things for you to do.

bijoux1 · 06-19-2012, 07:53 PM

I do agree with everyone that it definitely sounds like LP. As everyone else has suggested, I would definitely get her in to see a specialist! The only additional suggestions I can think of in addition to the really good ones already listed is, to maybe put some rugs or no slip mats on your wood or tile floors so that she doesn't slip and injure herself even worse.

I know it hurts when our babies hurt, and I hope you get the answers you need so she can get better soon!!!

Sassymae · 06-19-2012, 08:15 PM

Thanks so much for the advice, ladies. You all made me feel a little better in knowing I need to get her to the Vet ASAP. I'm not familiar with specialists. Should I take her to her normal vet first--& then have them refer me??

BabyGirl Rosie · 06-19-2012, 08:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sassymae

Thanks so much for the advice, ladies. You all made me feel a little better in knowing I need to get her to the Vet ASAP. I'm not familiar with specialists. Should I take her to her normal vet first--& then have them refer me??

That is what I would do here in my area. But I do have a lot of trust in my vet and I know that he would guide me to go to the best place. I do think you should start there and then have him send you to a specialist.

yorkietalkjilly · 06-19-2012, 09:51 PM

I'm so sorry your dog is having this problem. It sounds painful. In fact, that is probably why your dogs limps - because it hurts to bear weight on the leg. That is how he is showing pain. Dogs are known to be stoic, especially with chronic type pain and often don't complain as people in chronic pain may. Dogs will yelp out when their hair is accidentally pulled but can have a serious, even open wound and not be whining or yelping after the initial cries when it happened.

They usually mask pain as best they can as an instinct of survival. Just "Google" the phrase "dogs don't show pain" & read about it. If they sense you are palpating near or in a painful area, they will often brace against it & totally hide all but the most acute pain. Your dog could be masking/bracing or perhaps only bearing weight is painful & not pressure or motion. But a professional needs to determine that as soon as possible to possibly save undue suffering.

I would get a reputable orthopedic surgeon's evaluation & x-rays & go from there. The dog probably needs anti-inflammatories and perhaps pain medication now & perhaps, surgical correction in the future, though don't treat based on anything a non-vet tells you. Let the doctor decide those things & let us know what the diagnosis is & how your dog is doing if you will. Best wishes to you and your baby.

ElizaDo · 06-20-2012, 05:23 PM

Our baby has LP too. She's only 3 months old and her legs don't seem to bother her. Out vet is keeping an eye on it and said we may have to do surgery at 6 months if it's still bad.

ladyjane · 06-20-2012, 05:26 PM

No, they do not always whine or cry when they are in pain.

I would take her to a board certified surgeon who specializes in Orthopedic surgeries....you can ask your vet for one....or go to the following website to look:

American College of Veterinary Surgeons

When you search, just search for small animal surgeon in your area...then you can see the vets that are close to you and their specialties.

Good luck!

gemy · 06-20-2012, 07:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ElizaDo

Our baby has LP too. She's only 3 months old and her legs don't seem to bother her. Out vet is keeping an eye on it and said we may have to do surgery at 6 months if it's still bad.

Well I hope that you too would seek the opinion of a specialist prior to any surgery.

Mom to Hot Rod · 06-20-2012, 11:24 PM

I would definitely take your baby to a specialist. I agree, if your baby is in pain, then it may be time for surgery. I would suggest making an appt with an board certified orthopedic surgeon and having them do the xrays instead of the regular vet as they will probably want their own so they can determine what is going on. This will save a step as well as money.

As suggested, try limiting the jumping action with stairs or ramps. Good luck and please let us know how your baby is doing. Mine had his surgery at 1 1/2 years old. Hugs.

Mom to Hot Rod · 06-20-2012, 11:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ElizaDo

Our baby has LP too. She's only 3 months old and her legs don't seem to bother her. Out vet is keeping an eye on it and said we may have to do surgery at 6 months if it's still bad.

Our vet told us that most puppies have some form of lp. I would try supplements and try limiting jumping before doing surgery at 6 months old on the recommendation of a regular vet. I would definitely look for a 2nd opinion from a specialist first. Good luck.

gracielove · 06-21-2012, 12:49 AM

You can call your vet and ask for a referral to a specialist. Since he has done nothing to help your little girl after 5 years I would not take her to him to do any other work up on her. Just because it is "common" in small dogs does not mean it cannot be treated. To me it is heartless for that vet not to give you options about what you could do to relieve her suffering. Many times there are university veterinary hospitals that are very good at dealing with this problem. I don't know if you have one in Texas but you could check it out. I hope you find a specialist soon that can help her.

ladyjane · 06-21-2012, 03:45 AM

Oh! I did not even see that you are in Texas!! Not sure what part of Texas, but the orthopedic surgeon I use is in Houston. Dr. Beale at Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists
Home
He is amazing and has done surgeries on many of my foster pups and/or my own pups.

Sassymae · 06-21-2012, 08:35 AM

Ladies,
We just left the Vet---she stated Sassy does not have LP, her problem is that both of her knee's pop out of socket.
She showed my Husband & I how to simply pop them back into socket & gave me some pain medicine for my baby

This is the second doctor I have taken her to, that states this is her problem.
She said she doesn't recommend surgery for her at this time,
but still referred me to one. In case that is what I choose. Although not recommended.
I feel so frustrated, & will try popping them back in on my own, however I still think I may take her to a surgeon to have a peace of mind.

06-19-2012, 07:29 PM	#1
Sassymae Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Texas Posts: 71	Back leg problems!! In need of advice!!! My 5 yr old Yorkie has always had trouble with her back leg. Years ago, I took her the vet & the vet told me her leg pops out of socket---& that its common in small dogs. Years later, I notice she STILL has trouble with that leg. Lately, it seems to be a bit worse. She cant jump, & I've noticed when she's laying down & tries to stand up, she wont put pressure on it until she starts walking. Once shes up, she DOES walk on it. She doesnt squeel when I touch it, doesnt cry or whine at all. Can anyone relate to this issue? Any advice?? I'm planning on taking her to the vet, again. But I definetly wanted to get some opinions first!! Wouldn't she would cry/ whine if she was in pain???? Please help! It breaks my heart to see my baby in pain __________________ Lots of Love--From Lauren, Sassy Mae & Lola!!

06-19-2012, 07:32 PM	#2
yorkieusa Crazy about Kacee! Donating Member Join Date: May 2005 Location: Kansas Posts: 21,173	Luxating patella. Take her to a specialist, not a regular vet, but a surgeon who does leg surgeries. There are different techniques that surgeons do. They can tell you what your options are. Don't be afraid to do it. You can give her a better quality of life. __________________ Karen Kacee Muffin 1991-2005 Rest in Peace My Little Angel

06-19-2012, 07:39 PM	#3
BabyGirl Rosie I ♥ my girls! Donating Member Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: With My Yorkies Posts: 18,980	Was she diagnosed with LP? Did they give you what grade it was? My Mikki has LP and she is a grade 3. We recently had a scare with her. I think as time goes on, LP can get worse. And can lead into surgery. Yes, it can be very painful for them. They are tougher than you think. Mikki's recent incident I would not have known she was hurt if she hadn't been limping. She never made a sound. Just kept her one leg up and limped around. You need to take her in to the vet and discuss LP and what her options are. Some suggestions: 1. Minimize all jumping ( which is hard to do) 2. If you have doggie stairs use them for her to get up and down on beds, couches, etc. 3. Find out if there is any meds you can get for her until the vet can determine if surgery is needed. I know there are more. Maybe some others can think of some things for you to do. __________________ Momma to three sweet Yorkie girls Rosie Marie, Mikki Leigh , and Lily Mae Grace!

06-19-2012, 08:15 PM	#5
Sassymae Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Texas Posts: 71	Thanks so much for the advice, ladies. You all made me feel a little better in knowing I need to get her to the Vet ASAP. I'm not familiar with specialists. Should I take her to her normal vet first--& then have them refer me?? __________________ Lots of Love--From Lauren, Sassy Mae & Lola!!

06-19-2012, 09:51 PM	#7
yorkietalkjilly ♥ Love My Tibbe! ♥ Donating Member Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: D/FW, Texas Posts: 22,140	I'm so sorry your dog is having this problem. It sounds painful. In fact, that is probably why your dogs limps - because it hurts to bear weight on the leg. That is how he is showing pain. Dogs are known to be stoic, especially with chronic type pain and often don't complain as people in chronic pain may. Dogs will yelp out when their hair is accidentally pulled but can have a serious, even open wound and not be whining or yelping after the initial cries when it happened. They usually mask pain as best they can as an instinct of survival. Just "Google" the phrase "dogs don't show pain" & read about it. If they sense you are palpating near or in a painful area, they will often brace against it & totally hide all but the most acute pain. Your dog could be masking/bracing or perhaps only bearing weight is painful & not pressure or motion. But a professional needs to determine that as soon as possible to possibly save undue suffering. I would get a reputable orthopedic surgeon's evaluation & x-rays & go from there. The dog probably needs anti-inflammatories and perhaps pain medication now & perhaps, surgical correction in the future, though don't treat based on anything a non-vet tells you. Let the doctor decide those things & let us know what the diagnosis is & how your dog is doing if you will. Best wishes to you and your baby. __________________ Jeanie and Tibbe One must do the best one can. You may get some marks for a very imperfect answer: you will certainly get none for leaving the question alone. C. S. Lewis

06-19-2012, 07:53 PM	#4
bijoux1 YT Addict Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Louisiana Posts: 325	I do agree with everyone that it definitely sounds like LP. As everyone else has suggested, I would definitely get her in to see a specialist! The only additional suggestions I can think of in addition to the really good ones already listed is, to maybe put some rugs or no slip mats on your wood or tile floors so that she doesn't slip and injure herself even worse. I know it hurts when our babies hurt, and I hope you get the answers you need so she can get better soon!!!

06-20-2012, 05:23 PM	#8
ElizaDo Yorkie Talker Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: Louisiana Posts: 11	Our baby has LP too. She's only 3 months old and her legs don't seem to bother her. Out vet is keeping an eye on it and said we may have to do surgery at 6 months if it's still bad.

06-20-2012, 05:26 PM	#9
ladyjane Resident Yorkie Nut Donating YT 20K Club Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Texas Posts: 27,471	No, they do not always whine or cry when they are in pain. I would take her to a board certified surgeon who specializes in Orthopedic surgeries....you can ask your vet for one....or go to the following website to look: American College of Veterinary Surgeons When you search, just search for small animal surgeon in your area...then you can see the vets that are close to you and their specialties. Good luck! __________________ CLOUD NINE BEDS--YORKIE HAVEN RESCUE MY ETSY SHOP

06-20-2012, 11:24 PM	#11
Mom to Hot Rod Donating YT 5000 Club Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: MD Posts: 10,908	I would definitely take your baby to a specialist. I agree, if your baby is in pain, then it may be time for surgery. I would suggest making an appt with an board certified orthopedic surgeon and having them do the xrays instead of the regular vet as they will probably want their own so they can determine what is going on. This will save a step as well as money. As suggested, try limiting the jumping action with stairs or ramps. Good luck and please let us know how your baby is doing. Mine had his surgery at 1 1/2 years old. Hugs. __________________ www.kissecollar.com Soft Cone Collars for Post-surgery and much more! 10% (non-food) - Discount code YT10

06-21-2012, 12:49 AM	#13
gracielove YT 3000 Club Member Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: NY Posts: 6,582	You can call your vet and ask for a referral to a specialist. Since he has done nothing to help your little girl after 5 years I would not take her to him to do any other work up on her. Just because it is "common" in small dogs does not mean it cannot be treated. To me it is heartless for that vet not to give you options about what you could do to relieve her suffering. Many times there are university veterinary hospitals that are very good at dealing with this problem. I don't know if you have one in Texas but you could check it out. I hope you find a specialist soon that can help her.

06-21-2012, 03:45 AM	#14
ladyjane Resident Yorkie Nut Donating YT 20K Club Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Texas Posts: 27,471	Oh! I did not even see that you are in Texas!! Not sure what part of Texas, but the orthopedic surgeon I use is in Houston. Dr. Beale at Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists Home He is amazing and has done surgeries on many of my foster pups and/or my own pups. __________________ CLOUD NINE BEDS--YORKIE HAVEN RESCUE MY ETSY SHOP

06-21-2012, 08:35 AM	#15
Sassymae Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Texas Posts: 71	Ladies, We just left the Vet---she stated Sassy does not have LP, her problem is that both of her knee's pop out of socket. She showed my Husband & I how to simply pop them back into socket & gave me some pain medicine for my baby This is the second doctor I have taken her to, that states this is her problem. She said she doesn't recommend surgery for her at this time, but still referred me to one. In case that is what I choose. Although not recommended. I feel so frustrated, & will try popping them back in on my own, however I still think I may take her to a surgeon to have a peace of mind. __________________ Lots of Love--From Lauren, Sassy Mae & Lola!!