Ways to prevent knee problems?

[Erica&Riley]

Hi everyone,

Riley (almost 9 months) was limping on her back left leg for the last week or so. I took her to the vet this morning and she said that she thinks it is Riley's knee (cruciate ligament damage). I had to leave her with the vet for X-rays about an hour ago so I don't yet what the prognosis is yet. I am SO nervous! I am praying that my baby won't need surgery because money is super tight right now =(

I've done a search on this topic and read a lot of the threads, and now realize that this is a problem in boxers. A lot of people reported that their dogs had to have multiple surgeries. My question is this: what is the best way to "prevent" injury to the knee? I take her to the dog park and she plays a crazy girl...in other words she a typical puppy. Are there vitamin supplements that can strenghten their knees?

My biggest concern is that this isn't something that keeps happening.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!!

Erica

 

[Ciscobxr]

My vet told me to make sure they do not get overweight and they do not jump alot, like straight in the air after a toy, ect.
I'm sure there are other ways...

 

[Rocky Hoya]

Oh no! Poor Riley I hope everything turns out okay and it isnt something serious we are going to say a prayer right now. Dont worry Erica if she (god forbids) needs surgery we will help you find a way to get it done. You're from No. Va so definetely keep us posted!

 

[brwneyesk8]

Jumping is a big no-no until theur full grown, as I've heard. Running or even walking on concrete is tough while their growing, too. I'm not sure if it's true but I did hear that people that like to take their dogs running with them should wait until the dog is over 2 years old. Playing in the dog park should be ok but I'm not sure if there's a limit...how long...how many times per week. Your vet would know more about that.
Good luck and best wishes to your pup!!

 

[Erica&Riley]

Rocky Hoya...thank you SO much for your prayers! Riley needs them right now. I haven't heard back from the vet yet so I don't have anything new to report. She's such an active and energetic girl so I can't imagine how hard it will be to keep her confined while she heals. The funny thing is that she hasn't been acting like it hurts...she was running around this morning chasing her kitty sister and acting like her usual goofball self since she started the limping. My boyfriend and I are thinking of ways we can cut corners to pay for surgery if it comes to that...no more going out socially, eating out, no Xmas presents...but it would all be worth it if we have a healthy girl!!!! =)

Please everyone keep your prayers and boxer vibes coming for Riley!!!

 

[Rocky Hoya]

Hi Erica,
We said our prayer for Riley and Rocky sends sloppy kisses. The moderators might move this to the health forum since it is health related I guess. Once again let us know when you hear anything.

 

[BooBoo & Riley]

If the x-rays are inconclusive, then I say get a second opinion before doing any type of surgury...

When BooBoo was a pup, he too had the limp once in awhile, but our vet (who's the local boxer rescue vet) told us that boxer puppies tend to grow awkwardly, and in different speeds in different limps... so he said unless it continues for more than 2 weeks or so, then it will go away as the other limp catches up. There was a name for this, but I forget since it was 2 years ago. But anyway, BooBoo only limped a few times, each time no more than a day or two and it went away after he turned 1 or so...

If you vet insist on surgury, get a second opinion... and also look into getting insurance too.

 

[Layla's Mum]

I heard from my vet that 500mg Glucosamine and 400mg Chrondritin are good for keeping the joints lubricated. You can get a single pill that has these two combined. We are looking to get Layla some, since she has a back knee injury as well. You'd think for such a sturdy looking breed that they would hold up a lot better! Instead they are such softies, inside and out...

 

[Erica&Riley]

Update on Riley - Need Advice!

I just picked Riley up from the vet and the vet told me that Riley has laxity in both of her knees. The vet sedated her and took x-rays and manipulated her legs. She explained that the laxity (as opposed to a tightness) was the "drawer sign." She told me that since both knees appeared to be lax then she wasn't sure that she had injured her cruciate ligament. She prescribed Rimadyl (for pain and inflamation) for a week as well as resting for 2 weeks and then we would reassess the situation. So she hasn't ruled out damage to her cruciate ligament yet. She explained that since both knees displayed the laxity then this just might be her physical makeup. My vet said that she could refer me to an orthopedist if I wanted, but she is conservative (which I greatly appreciate) so she suggested the "wait and see" approach for the moment.

So my question to BW is this: has anyone else experienced or heard of this happening? Would supplements of glucosamine and chondrotin help the situation long-term? How much of these supplements - and what kind...human vitamins or pet? Possibly a special diet to aid with orthopedic issues? I am also concerned about Riley long-term...I will do anything I possibly can to ensure that she has a wonderful (pain-free) life!

Any thoughts, ideas, and suggestions would be very helpful! And please keep the boxer vibes coming!!!!!

Thank you so much!!
Erica

 

[Rocky Hoya]

Hi there Erica,
What a day for you guys it must be but at least now you know what you are dealing with. Please keep us updated on Riley we will do anything to help. PM me if you can. Also, did the vet say this is something that she sees commonly? Is this something that Riley can overcome with the right meds or diet? Keep in touch.