Why Hydrotherapy Helps Luxating Patella in Dogs
- Rachel Velarde
- May, 06, 2018
- Canine Hydrotherapy, Luxating Patella
- 3 Comments.
Luxating Patella in Dogs
The medical term “Luxating Patella” can go by a variety of names, such as: “floating kneecap”, “slipped kneecap” or “trick knee”. Basically, what they all mean are a dislocated kneecap. It is most common in smaller dogs such as toy or teacup breeds and it can be very painful and uncomfortable. Luxating patella’s are one of the most common conditions seen in the veterinarian world and is usually diagnosed at an early age. Although most of the smaller breeds are more susceptible to this condition, it is still often seen in medium to larger breed dogs of any age.
Here is a list of breeds that are predisposed to having or developing a Luxating Patella:
- Boston Terrier
- Jack Russell Terrier
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Chihuahua
- Pomeranian
- Toy/Teacup/Mini Poodle
- Maltese
- Bichon Frise
- Papillon
- Pekingese
What is a Luxating Patella?
Luxating patella’s occur when their kneecap slips out of place and moves around, causing a dog to suddenly stop, pick it’s leg up and will do this until their kneecap pops back into its place. This condition can be caused due to an accident, injury or genetics. Something as simple as jumping off the sofa wrong or landing the wrong way after, can offset a dog’s patellar groove in their knee. Regardless of whatever brought about their luxating patella, it is vital you treat and rehab your dog through it. If a luxating patella goes untreated, the movement of the patella will grind down cartilage giving way for arthritis to develop permanently and cause more damage, more pain and possible loss of complete mobility.
Below is a list of common and sudden symptoms a dog may have from a Luxating Patella:
- Lameness in rear leg(s)
- Lifting or extending the back leg for a period of time
- Difficulty in getting up from a laying position
- Swelling around the knee
- Weakness in the leg(s)
- Bowlegged appearance (especially in puppies)
- Fleeting paralysis in the knee
- Hesitation to jump or run around
Diagnoses, Therapy & Treatment Options
If you believe your dog may be suffering from a Luxating Patella, consult with your trusted veterinarian right away. They will take X-rays of your dog’s knee, examine their knee physically and then come to a conclusion. There are different grades of a Luxating Patella determined by it’s severity with Grade 1 being the mildest and Grade 4 being the most severe. The next step after diagnosis is to find a solution to treat and manage this condition. Before jumping into surgery, it is best to find holistic and natural ways of healing to prevent any side effects or issues during the recovery process. The goal with this condition is to relieve pain, inflammation and improve the function/mobility of the knee.
There are many non-surgical ways to help and heal your dog of their Luxating Patella:
- Keep your dog fit. If your dog carries around excess body weight, they are already putting unwanted pressure on their knee joints. Regular non land-based exercises involving water are the safest and most beneficial for your dog. It allows them to have full range of motion, flexibility and no pressure while exercising and maintaining their optimum weight.
- Natural Supplements. Along with hydrotherapy, glucosamine, turmeric and CBD oil are the most recommended holistic supplements to include in your dog’s diet to reduce inflammation and keep their joints fluid.
- Balanced Diet. Keeping your dog on a nutritional diet makes a world of a difference when it comes to their health and physiology. Cheap store bought brands are filled with gluten, grain, corn and preservatives which unfortunately feeds inflammation and physical issues. Stick to holistic, raw and real food to ensure your dog is as healthy as possible and can live a long, healthy and happy life.
- Other Holistic Therapies. Aside from hydrotherapy, acupuncture and massage therapy are all great alternatives to modern day medical treatments. These holistic therapies stimulate fast and natural healing, reduce stress, improve circulation and strengthen joints.
Hydrotherapy For a Luxating Patella
Hydrotherapy is recognized as an ideal form of healing and recovery for most orthopedic conditions including Luxating Patella. Dogs are able to extend their legs fully with hydrotherapy while building muscle mass around joints helping to support their weaker areas. It is vital that you distinguish the benefits between hydrotherapy and swimming in the pool. Studies have found that too much uncontrolled exercise in dogs (aka unassisted swimming in a pool) can lead to premature damage in the tissues and cartilage which slows recovery from injury or illness.
Provided below are the many reasons why hydrotherapy should be your first choice in healing your dog of their Luxating Patella:
- Hydrostatic pressure in the water decreases perception of pain
- Non-weight bearing exercise
- Full and increased range of motion
- Buoyancy aids in rehab of weak and painful joints/muscles
- Increased muscle strength
- Feeling of well-being because of released endorphins
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Releases frustration and pent up energy
- Relaxation of muscle spasms/tension
- Builds muscle mass in weak areas
- Slowing of progression in degenerative diseases
- Prevention of secondary complications
- Improved respiratory/cardiovascular fitness
- Improved and prolonged quality of life
About Dip’ n Dogs Hydrotherapy – Orlando, FL
At Dip’n Dogs Hydrotherapy, we are certified and caring professionals devoted to restoring and enhancing the health and happiness of your beloved pup. Encompassing a state-of-the-art, indoor pool, as well as a certified hydrotherapist, this can provide effective and long lasting results for your pet’s injury or illness. We are conveniently located in Orlando FL near the College Park area. Contact us today at (407) 227-0030. Our Services include the following: Indoor Hydrotherapy and In-Home Mobile Therapy for dogs. We look forward to hearing from you!

What Our Clients Are Saying
Rachel is extremely kind, gentle and motivational towards animals. She provides quality individual attention.
What a great way to help your animal!Chase Milner March 20, 2018
"My Lab mix Tucker, is a new client of Dip'n Dogs. After just a few assisted swims with Rachel, we have seen great results with his weight loss and overall behavior. Rachel is fun and motivating when in the water and Tucker really loves his weekly swim session!"
Patrick Haggerty March 22, 2018
"Rachel is amazing! The changes in Blu’s overall physical health have been worth every effort. I recommend hydrotherapy for any dog’s overall fitness health."
Jennifer Corso Leonard April 29, 2018
"Rachel is wonderful with our fur baby Bella. We were told by Bella’s vet that she needed to lose some weight and we are already seeing results! Bella may not be the easiest client (very much a diva) but Rachel is so patient and gentle with her. Bella is a mix of husky and German Shepherd so we want to keep her fit to prevent conditions that are common with those breeds."
Kaela Rebecca April 30, 2018
"Our little Yorkie Jack has arthritis and our vet recommended trying hydrotherapy. Jack is a yipper but remains calm with Rachel! After his sessions, we do see Jack go up the two steps he usually avoids, with less hesitation and his walking seems easier! Thank you Rachel!"
Joni Browder April 30, 2018
"Our 11 year-old Yorkie just started hydrotherapy for his arthritis. Since starting, he’s a little more agile, and goes upstairs with more ease! Thanks Rachel for all you do and your extra TLC with our little Jack!"
Caitlin Browder May 5, 2018
My beagle, Badger, is overweight (like many beagles are) but I wasn’t too worried because we would go for long walk/runs to keep him healthy. BUT, his hips began to hurt and he wouldn’t walk for more than just a few minutes. I was worried he would become obese! I found Dip’n Dogs online and signed Badger up for hydrotherapy with Rachel. Not only is he almost back to normal with our walks but he has lost a bit of weight! The swims have definitely benefited him. Rachel is kind, patient and very flexible with scheduling appointments. Plus, her package deals help with the cost. I highly recommend her services. Both Badger and I are much happier than we were a month or so ago!”
Camille King July 12, 2018
“Jack’s mobility has benefited from the swimming sessions in a short time. I appreciate the patience and care Rachel has shown with our 17 year old Jack Russell. He needs special attention and she always gives him terrific assistance. I wish we had known about hydrotherapy earlier in his life. I know he would be in even better shape than he is now.”
Seth Miller July 12, 2018
"Hope is getting her second session of water therapy to help with her arthritis in her spine and legs and build her leg muscles back up! Maria and I love her trainer Rachel!"
Andrea Ruiz-Hays July 17, 2018
"Rachel has been awesome and I would most definitely recommend her!! My 12 year old beagle recently had knee surgery and she reached out to me through social media to let me know about her services. When it came time for him to start hydrotherapy as part of his recovery I contacted Rachel and set up an appointment. She was very responsive to messages and easy to get a hold of to set up our first appointment. After our first session my beagle started walking better and showing improvement in his healing process. I decided to buy a 4 session pack from her and taking him to see her weekly. Since we have started, his mobility has improved after each session and he gets around better than ever."
Caitlyn Canada July 17, 2018
"Rachel became certified in canine hydrotherapy through the certification program we offer through The Canine Fitness Institute. Since then, she has been working with dogs daily and I've seen her skills and competence grow by leaps and bounds. She opened her own business in 2018 - Dip N Dogs Canine Hydrotherapy and is doing a great job helping a wide variety of dogs regain strength after surgery, lose weight, become more mobile even though they have arthritis, and more. To further her knowledge, she continues to study and research a variety of orthopedic conditions that routinely affect dogs. She is very personable and her clients love her and the care she gives their dogs. If your dog can benefit from the incredible healing effects of hydrotherapy, I recommend you give Rachel a call."
Sherri Cappabianca July 17, 2018
"Jack was always extremely active throughout his life. Now at 17 plus years, he isn’t able to walk as well as we would like, due to arthritis and atrophy from age a medications he has taken. The hydrotherapy treatments with Rachel have made such a difference. They have helped him maintain his mobility and gain additional strength. Jack swims twice a week with Rachel. He swims very hard and I think he enjoys the mobility in the water that he no longer has on land. I wish we had known about hydrotherapy and Rachel earlier. I don’t think it is ever to early to start your dog swimming. I know would be in even better shape now than he is, if we had started him sooner. I highly recommend Rachel to work with your pet. She always has Jack’s best interest in mind and we certainly appreciate that."
Carrie Miller September 10, 2018
"Rachel is a pro when it comes to helping our dog Ellie feel comfortable during her swimming session. She has a kind nature towards animals and is really good at what she does. I'm glad we found out about her business. I highly recommend her services for your pet's well being."
Andy Schifaro September 10, 2018
"Rachel's calm, confident approach had our dog very comfortable."
Tracy Robinson September 10, 2018
"We are absolutely thrilled and happy to have Rachel swim with our dog Griffin. The exercise really has helped calm Griffin and his weight is right where it should be. Our vet was very happy with Griffins weight at his last check up this past week. They were happy that he had not gained any as many dogs do after being neutered. Griffin really loves his time with Rachel! she is a true dog lover."
Sara Palmer September 10, 2018
"Rachel was wonderful with my Dusty who had an FHO done on his right hip but his left hip is not so good either. As of right now his right has healed wonderfully and his left hip is holding strong! I believe it is because of hydrotherapy with Rachel. Dusty had his surgery in March and I can’t go fast enough for him on his walks! I might need some hydrotherapy myself!"
Terrie Sandefur October 3, 2018
"Rachel seems to see and love my Hannah's Spirit. Hannah recently said goodbye, for now, to Hazel, her litter mate and twin. Needing some fun new experiences and with a recent arthritis diagnosis, Dip'n Dogs was a nice adventure. Hannah enjoys the pool. Seems a natural swimmer. And Rachel has a good positive energy!"
Gwen Hartmann October 4, 2018
"Rachel is a caring and experienced dog guardian and is one of my dog, Maisie’s, favorite people. I highly recommend Dip'n Dogs!"
Marcia Caton February 18, 2019
"Sophie doesn't love the pool but Rachel was so great with her that Sophie was giving her kisses by the end! I'm so excited about Sophie continuing her hydrotherapy!"
Katlyn Billue February 18, 2019
"We are absolutely thrilled and happy to have Rachel swim with our dog Griffin. The exercise really has helped calm Griffin and his weight is right where it should be. Our vet was very happy with Griffins weight at his last check up this past week. They were happy that he had not gained any as many dogs do after being neutered. Griffin really loves his time with Rachel! she is a true dog lover."
Sara Palmer February 18, 2019
"Guinness and I are so happy that we met Rachel. She is super nice, gentle, patient and knows how to make Guinness comfortable in the pool, because he gets soo nervous. She is helping Guiness get back on his leg after a luxating patella injury. Right now he is doing great and starting to put his leg down when walking. I would definitely recommend Rachel- best hydrotherapy
:) and she does a great job in the pool. Thank you Rachel!"
Noelia Cocco February 18, 2019
"From the instant that I met Rachel, I felt comfortable with her and would have trusted her with any of my dogs. She came and worked with my senior, blind Shih Tzu this summer. My Millicent has arthritis, bad skin, allergies and had recently developed a heart murmur. Rachel made sure to go over Millie’s health history with me and was very aware of how Millie was doing the whole time she worked with her. It is great exercise for an old, lazy dog!"
Kristi Klein February 18, 2019
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