English Bulldog and their knees

Question
QUESTION: I have a 7 month old English bulldog puppy. I noticed the other day that his knee is swollen on his back leg on the inside. I felt the knee and it doesn't seem to bother him. He doesn't limp or act any differently. He runs and plays as always. I am debating on whether to have him seen by the vet or just wait and see if the swelling goes down. If it was patellar luxation wouldn't he be in pain and not moving about as usual? I had started him on glucosamine about 3 weeks ago as advised by a breeder who told me that it can't hurt and it would help as he got older. He was showing no signs of any complications at that time. Any suggestions?

ANSWER: Hi-  It takes some time for supplements to work.  I am sure if there is a slight injury, it will mend soon.  Just takes time and good nutrition.  He may not have pain with levels 1-2-3 Luxating patella.
Many times the dog will pop the joint back into place by themselves.
No surgery is needed for 1-2-3 levels of this disorder.

So, don't worry and give it some time.

Do you have him on the NuVET Plus and NuJoint Plus?
Is this boy on the Salmon OIL???  He would need 1 -2 teaspoons per day of pure salmon oil.

Also, please don't have him run too much, like fetch.  Too much stopping quickly and adding to his injury.  How about a nice steady walk on a leash.

Let me know how he is in a few weeks!

thanks
Marie Peppers
http://www.nuvet.com/81098  ( NuVET ordering code 81098 )
http://wwww.apluspetcare.com/untitled4.html



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the information! I have contacted NuVet to order those supplements. Any idea where I can by the salmon oil? I have only found salmon oil gelcaps. How long should I wait for this to heel before having him seen by a vet if it does not correct itself? I am trying to keep him as calm as possible. I do have another dog that he plays with, should I keep them apart for now?

Answer
Hi Nikki - I would wait another 3-4 weeks if he doesn't get any worse.  Also, in order to heal he needs to be calmer.  I understand you have another dog and they can go for walks and light play... No jumping play with the other dog.  Do you know what I mean about jumping up and bouncing play???  

Now, Salmon oil ( pure Alaska Salmon oil) can be found at most pet stores or you can order it here:

http://www.yummychummies.com/html/oil.html
http://www.grizzlypetproducts.com/salmon_oil/salmon_oil.html


Also, Make sure you call Joan tomorrow for your NuVET Plus and NuJoint Plus ---  She is at ext 265
1-800-474-7044 ext 265
Tell Joan Marie sent you over from All Experts and The Doggie Chalet Hotel... Ordering Code  81098

Also, sometimes a little swelling can mean hematoma, blood under the skin.  Many times it will re-absorbed themselves.  If not, the vet may need to stick a needle in the area and removed the blood or other fluids... Very minor if this happens...

Give him some time on good supplements...

Also, what food are you feeding him?