How to Treat a Luxated Patella in a Dog

Most common among smaller breeds of dogs, a luxated patella can be a painful experience for man's best friend. In this condition, the patella, or kneecap, doesn't slide as it should when the leg is bent, causing restricted movement and pain. Fortunately, there are successful ways in which to treat luxated patella in dogs.

Instructions

1. Get the severity of the condition graded by a veterinary orthopedist. A grade I luxated patella needs different treatment than a grade IV.

2. Monitor the dog carefully in the early stages of the condition. Some dogs can live with a luxated patella without the condition worsening quickly. Keep a close eye on your dog and note any physical changes that need to be reported to your vet.

3. Cut back on the dog's exercise and administer NSAIDs (non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs). Continue to monitor the dog for any signs of a luxated patella getting worse.

4. Have surgery to correct a luxated patella. In nearly 90 percent of cases, surgery--which may include deepening grooves in the femur to allow the patella to move smoothly--will successfully repair the patella.

Tips & Warnings

• Note signs of a luxated patella. If your dog yelps in pain while running and won't put weight on one leg for a short time, then returns to normal, he may be suffering from a luxated patella.

• Surgery for a luxated patella can repair that problem, but won't address any arthritis that may have developed as a result of this condition.

• Ask your veterinarian if she can use a new method called rapid prototyping. This method results in quicker, more individualized and possibly less traumatic surgery.

• Surgery to correct a luxated patella can be expensive.

• Don't leave a luxated patella untreated. This can lead to arthritis of the knee.

• Don't breed dogs diagnosed with a luxated conditon, as the condition is genetic.