Clinical symptoms usually become evident after four months of age. In the case of stationary dislocations, the affected dog’s characteristic movement is usually present from the moment of dislocation: a series of little jerks with the affected limb which are repeated until the kneecap shifts back into position.

In cases of permanent dislocations, the animal is unable to extend the joint and walks with the limb lifted up (without placing weight on it), or, if both lombs are affected, walks like a rabbit (hopping).

There are varying degrees of dislocation of the patella, so your pet will not always exhibit symptoms as obvious as those described above. You may simply notice a small anomaly in the hind legs while your pet is walking. Even if there is no lameness or favouring of the leg, go to your vet for a scan to confirm or rule out that your animal is suffering from patellar subluxation.

The dislocation of the patella, if not corrected, over time is likely to cause deformation of the femur and tibia, including cranial cruciate ligament rupture. The latter would result in a permanent limp, your pet unable to place any weight upon the limb.

The treatment of patellar dislocation is always through surgery and there are several techniques for correction.

Better results are always obtained with early diagnosis.