Expert: Silva Mirovics - 10/16/2007

Question
Our 8 year old shit-zu maltesse injured her leg while running an after doing x-rays the vet has told me that she has a slight Luxating Patella (Dislocated Knee Cap) which we have given her a series of Metacam injections and did not see any inprovment. She still holds her back left leg up and walks on three for seven weeks now, the vet is reluctant to do surgery as he seems to think that she will not use it even after the surgery. I was wondering is there any other alternative to do for her or with time as with a bad sprain will it get better? She has never cried during an exam or notioned to let the vet know that it is at all sore so I am reluctant to do the surgery. Thank-You for your time.  Pam Hesketh

Answer
Dear Pam
I am sorry to hear about your 8 year old Shit-zu x Malt's knee injury.  If she is not crying out in pain then this is obviously a good sign.  If the vet is reluctant to operate, then I think you can do several things to help her knee improve.  Firstly, you can buy a natural animal (usually for dogs or horses) massage gel or aromatherapy blend to massage in.  If using aromatherapy blends buy one that is made in a base of coconut oil which solidifies and absorbs really easily.  Normal oils can be a problem for the coat and also if they start to lick the oil.  Massage the area gently morning and night.  You can also boost the diet with Flaxseed Oil (Linseed oil) which is great for keeping skin, coat, and joints in good condition.  There are also many natural muscle and joint products for dogs - herbal and homeopathic that can provide terrific improvement and results with regular maintained use.  Herbal anti-inflammatories may work well in this case.
There are also nutritional supports such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin blends that work to strengthen the joint and ligaments.
Other therapies that can help are canine rehab such as swimming, physiotherapy and acupuncture.
Please let me know if I can assist you further.
Kind regards
Silva
www.roxysworld.com.au