2020 Success Story Diesel Chihuahua

This is Diesel, an 8-month-old Chihuahua. Diesel and his sister were playing pretty rough one night, shortly after Diesel was limping and acting uncomfortable. His mom was hoping he just tweaked something and would feel better the next day, but the next day he wasn't putting any pressure on his leg. Being a responsible pet parent, Diesel's mom took him to the vet to determine what was happening. 

At the vet they found out that during Diesel's wrestling session the night before, his sister knocked his knee out of place, and now Diesel needed a RidgeStop™ implant.

Patellar luxation in the dog is almost as common as an ACL rupture. In this condition, the patella (kneecap) will come out of the groove toward the inside of the knee, making the knee appear to lock in a bent position. Also referred to as slip knee, patella luxation can cause issues like cartilage damage, inflammation, pain, and even ligament tears. All of this can be very painful for a pup. 

According to Spruce Pets:

A dog with patella luxation will often hold up the affected hind leg when walking. This may occur for a few strides after which they use the leg normally. They may also bear weight on the leg while it is bent at an unusual angle. Sometimes the kneecap is able to be visualized moving back and forth in a dog.

If a chronic luxating patella has caused knee trauma over time, a dog may show signs of pain in their knee. Crying, licking at the knee, limping, and an unwillingness to walk on the affected leg can all be seen.

Surgery is the best way to help with this condition; and as you can imagine, surgery can be quite an expense. Diesel's mom is on a limited income, and just a few months prior used her savings for one of Diesel's siblings who was very sick. She was hoping to build her savings up before needing to go to the vet again, but Diesel was sure to keep her on her toes. She applied to Fur Kids Foundation for help, and we were happy to help with the emergency veterinary costs.

Diesel's mom is hoping everyone can play a little safer and she can build up her emergency savings once again.

About Fur Kids Foundation
Fur Kids Foundation is 100% run by dedicated volunteers who give their time to help the Foundation raise money with events, take applications, and spread the word about the good work the Foundation does in Campbell County, Wyoming. If you would like to help Fur Kids Foundation continue to help local families with animals afford emergency veterinary care, please consider making a tax-deductible donation via PayPal or signing up to become a volunteer. Read more Success Stories.