After being told over and over again how if I didn't correct Pearl's luxating knees soon she would suffer crippling arthritis, I went ahead and scraped together every spare cent I had (just coming off unemployment and had my job only for two months by this time) and did the surgery.

Only now she's actually worse than she was before the operation. Everytime she steps with her rear right foot, the let bows out. Imagine your arm as her leg. Normal walking sees the forarm going back and forth with some slight movement of the elbow to the right...with her the elbow goes out to the right a lot...like almost 45 degrees out. But whenever I take her back to the vet (twice now...including the post-op visit that he charged me a full office visit for), they say the bone hasn't slipped from the knee and give her more time to heal. It's been two and a half months. I know it occassionally hurts her too because I've seen her limping on it. She's such a stoic little baby though.

I've no experience with this surgery. Does it sound like everything is ok? Is this just a product of healing? I've been told I become a hypochondriac when it comes to my dogs, and I don't want (can't) afford to chase my tail on this. I'd like to get some feedback before going to another vet and ordering expensive tests.

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Tabitha went through this surgery. Tabitha's LP Surgery Story in Pictures (Luxating Patella/Knee Surgery)

I took her to a Specialist. While I was there, I overheard a call of a new client--someone
coming in because their Vet had done a poor job on the surgery. The receptionist
said this happens all of the time.
If I were you, I would get a second opinion from an Orthopedic Specialist. It cost me $100 for that.
Money well spent. At least you would get an accurate diagnosis and prognosis for Pearl.
I hope things look up for you very soon. Good to see you posting again--just sorry it's
under these circumstances. Take Care

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"My little dog - a heartbeat at my feet." - Edith Wharton

I pray for healing, I am worried now next year amberleah will need it. Her knees are so bad poor baby.

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In His Service
Theresa
and Amberleah Lou Lou

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