Leena and Elbow Dysplasia

As most of us familiar with the Labrador retriever know, there are certain genetic traits that predispose them to unfortunate medical issues.

Almost everyone has heard of hip dysplasia, but do you know about elbow dysplasia? Elbow dysplasia is complicated to explain, but is essentially a malformation of the elbow joint most likely due to genetics or stress to the joint during growth, that can cause lameness and degenerative joint disease or arthritis in dogs. In general it affects the giant and larger breed dogs, but is also diagnosed in smaller dogs as well.

Treatment for elbow dysplasia varies. Depending on how quickly the disease is diagnosed, surgery can be performed to help correct the problems of the joint. However, surgery is not as successful once permanent changes or arthritis of the joint has set in. The best candidates for surgery are young dogs between 1 - 2 years of age. Surgery is expensive, must be done by a trained specialist and requires 6 - 8 weeks of post operative recovery including extremely limited activity, cage rest and physical therapy. Surgery does not guarantee against development of arthritis of the joint in the future. Even dogs who have had surgery often require the same type of pain management and anti-inflammatory medication that non-surgical patients receive.

In older dogs where permanent damage of the joint has already occurred, surgery is not as successful. In these cases, dogs are treated with NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), glucosamine and chondroitin supplements, and low impact exercise, such as swimming or walking. Weight control is also an important component of supportive treatment as overweight dogs will put additional stress on already sensitive joints. Although different degrees of severity occur, dogs with elbow dysplasia do not have a decreased life expectancy and when properly cared for, can live a normal relatively pain free life.

Many of you know Susie. I adopted her from HOTLR in 2008. Susie was diagnosed with elbow dysplasia in both elbows, arthritis in her spine, and a luxating patella in her left knee. Since her diagnosis, Susie has hiked numerous miles in Colorado, routinely does three to six mile hikes here in Austin with some pretty serious inclines, swims like an otter and loves to "tree" squirrels in the backyard. She is somewhere around 7-8 years old and the only treatment she currently receives for her medical problems are JointMax Triple Strength Chews (an over-the-counter joint supplement containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and other joint cartilage supplements) and Adequan (a monthly injectable medication that slows further degeneration of her joints). She does not limp or seem otherwise painful. Susie is probably not going to come in first place at any foot race, but her joy of life and spirit for play make her a perfect companion for me. I haven't regretted adopting her for one second.

Leena is a dog currently in the HOTLR program that has recently been diagnosed with elbow dysplasia. Her dysplasia is mild and only concerns one elbow. She does not limp and does not seem uncomfortable currently. The only indication that she has the condition is that she stands with one of her feet pointed outwards. Leena is 3 years old now and is most likely not a good candidate for surgery. However, Leena is still able to be a wonderful companion. She will probably not be able to run a marathon or be a frisbee champ, but there is no reason why Leena will not be able to go on long rambling walks with you, swim in any lake or stream you take her, and snuggle up with you at night to watch television. She is currently on no pain medication as she is not limping nor does she seem painful, however it is probably a good idea for her to receive joint supplements that a veterinarian can prescribe and that you can usually get over-the-counter.

Typically, any older Labrador regardless of whether he/she has ever been diagnosed with elbow or hip dysplasia will require some type of supportive joint treatment as they age. They are big dogs, they are often somewhat overweight and they have usually been very active throughout their lives. So, Leena, will be just like every other Labrador out there. Yes, she should be getting her joint supplements now and maybe she'll need anti-inflammatories before some of her older Lab friends, but she will live a very happy and healthy life.

So if you are considering adopting a Labrador, consider Leena. Don't let her condition scare you. This is a very, very common condition in the Labrador retriever and even the best breeder with the best pedigreed animals cannot guarantee a puppy that will be dysplasia free. Leena is ready and waiting and like every single dog in the HOTLR program she needs a forever home filled with forever love. Do you know someone that can give Leena a second chance at a beautiful life? Don't you think she deserves it? For more information on Leena, check her out on the HOTLR website!!