So I just came back from the vet with Milo (who, despite his loving adoration for the techs, is the world's most difficult patient). I wanted to share our experience in hopes of helping others, and am open to feedback from someone who is experiencing a similar situation, or has the veterinary know-how to offer advice.
For the past two weeks, we noticed that Milo would randomly thrust his right hind leg out, straight as an arrow, and limp around on the other three legs. He would fidget a bit, and then begin walking on all four feet like nothing had happened! Milo showed no pain when we touched the leg, and still runs and walks like normal, aside from the spasms. Yet there is a history of leg problems in Milo's family (one of his brothers experienced severe issues with his cruciate ligaments), so we made the appointment to go.
I recommend this to all pet owners, no matter what the animal - if you have a "gut feeling" about your pet's health, just go to the vet! Animals hide pain and illness, it's part of their instinct to do so, so if you're sensing something's wrong, something could be really wrong.
Thankfully, there's nothing REALLY wrong with Milo, but after some poking and prodding our vet diagnosed him with a luxating patela - a trick knee. I watched her pop the knee out, and pop it back in. The ligaments that hold the kneecap in place have likely been weak since birth, or recently torn in one of his many high-speed laps around the yard. In small dogs, it's normal and not a big problem, but in dogs of Milo's size, it's rare and more serious. Thankfully, it's treatable. From here he'll need to see a veterinary orthopedist. Our vet believes he'll need surgery to fully correct the issue and help prevent severe arthritis in the future. In the meantime I'm looking for alternative, natural treatments to help ease any pain he may have (although he's not showing any) and help him maintain the absolute best mobility he can throughout his life. The only thing I know to do for sure right now is to take him on shorter, more frequent walks, and train him in proper leash walking techniques to ensure he's not straining himself.
Has your dog or cat ever experienced a trick knee or other orthopedic issue? What did you do/are you doing to give them the best quality of life?
