Luxating Patella

Poutine was born with luxating patella. It is a condition in which the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location. Patellar luxation is a common condition in small breed dogs. When Poutine was few months old, he liked to lift up his right hind leg occasionally while walking, as he got older, he was hopping on 3 legs all the time and had difficulties jumping onto the couch or bed. Our veterinarian said it has to be corrected by surgery and recommended us to the Western Veterinary Specialist Centre. They are specialized in performing patellar luxation surgeries on small animals.

We were seen by Dr. Colin Sereda. After examination, he concluded that Poutine's condition on his right knee is at a grade 3 level (the levels are 1 to 4 with 4 being the most severe), and surgery is required. He further said his left knee also has the same condition and will require surgery down the road. He quoted us $3,200 for the surgery on the right leg and if we want to do both knees at the same time, it's $5,200. We could not believe the expensive costs, but we didn't really have any choice. Poutine is only 6 years old and his luxation is very severe.

We decided to go ahead and have Dr. Sereda operate on both knees because we did not want Poutine to suffer through the whole ordeal of surgery and recovery two separate times. He is so tiny. The operation was scheduled for June 2, 2011.