Understanding Patellar Luxation in Pomskies: Symptoms, Causes, and Care
Patellar luxation is a common orthopedic condition affecting the kneecap of dogs. There are growing reports of this in poorly bred Pomskies. If you are in the process of shopping for a puppy, we HIGHLY recommend that you work with an APKC® breeder (LINKED) that performs OFA tests to reduce the chance of this occurring in your Pomsky.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of patellar luxation, providing insights into its symptoms, causes, and various care options to ensure your beloved Pomsky's well-being.
Symptoms: Patellar luxation in Pomskies can manifest through various symptoms, including:
Limping or favoring one leg while walking
Difficulty extending or bending the affected leg
Reluctance to engage in physical activities like running or jumping
Audible clicking or popping sounds when walking
Abnormal gait, such as a hopping motion
Owners should remain vigilant for these signs and promptly consult a veterinarian if observed in their Pomsky.
Causes: Patellar luxation in Pomskies can occur due to genetic predispositions, anatomical abnormalities, or traumatic injuries. While the exact cause may vary, the condition often results from an abnormal alignment of the patellar tendon within the knee joint. Environmental factors may exacerbate the condition, but it is primarily considered a congenital issue.
Treatment Options: Managing patellar luxation in Pomskies involves a multifaceted approach tailored to the severity of the condition:
Conservative Management: Mild cases may be managed through weight management, physical therapy, and joint supplements to alleviate discomfort and improve joint function.
Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and manage pain associated with patellar luxation. Many owners swear by a homemade remedy called “Golden Paste” which is a combination of Tumeric and other common household ingredients that help to reduce swelling and inflammation, which in turn can reduce symptoms of luxating patellas.
Surgical Intervention: Severe cases or persistent luxations may require surgical correction to realign the patellar tendon and stabilize the knee joint. We highly recommend a second opinion before allowing surgery, as some vets are quick to perform surgery rather than consider less invasive alternative options that may be equally successful.
Owners should work closely with their veterinarian to determine the most suitable treatment plan for their Pomsky's unique needs.
Preventative Measures: While patellar luxation cannot always be prevented, Pomsky owners can take proactive measures to mitigate its impact:
Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity can exacerbate joint issues, so ensuring your Pomsky maintains a healthy weight is crucial.
Provide appropriate exercise: Low-impact exercises can help strengthen muscles and support joint health without placing excessive strain on the knees. Over-exercising puppies too young is a common reason why luxating patellas develop.
Monitor the environment: Take steps to prevent slips and falls by providing secure footing and minimizing potential hazards in your Pomsky's living space. Allowing your puppy to jump on/off the sofa or bed, regardless of the patella health of the parents, this environment can exacerbate patella issues. It’s the responsibility of the pet owner to continue the good environment and minimize risks to growing puppy joints until adulthood.
Consider supplements: Joint supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, Golden paste, and other beneficial ingredients can support joint health and alleviate symptoms of patellar luxation.
While good breeders perform OFA patella tests on the parental dogs, the environment in which the puppy is raised is part of this critical period. Breeders do the best they can while the puppy is under their care. Owners have to continue that care to help prevent this common occurrence.
Patellar luxation can significantly impact a dog’s mobility and quality of life, but with prompt diagnosis and appropriate care, affected Pomskies can lead fulfilling lives. By staying informed about the symptoms, causes, and care options for patellar luxation, Pomsky owners can provide their furry companions with the support and attention they need to thrive. Always consult with a veterinarian for personalized guidance and treatment recommendations tailored to your Pomsky's specific needs.
IMPORTANT: If your Pomsky develops luxating patellas despite the breeder having conducted certified OFA Patella exams and regular annual veterinary manual exams, it does not reflect poorly on the breeder. The fact that the breeder performed and passed the OFA Patella test demonstrates their commitment to thorough due diligence in preventing patella issues. It's important to recognize that even with multiple generations of passed OFA-tested dogs, individual results and environmental factors can still contribute to the development of luxating patellas in a puppy.
