10 Year old West Highland Terrier problem back leg.

[BURRITO71]

In the last couple of months my 10 year old West Highland terrier has showed signs of having a stiff back right leg.He is still very fit,but after running down the garden his back leg sometimes locks up,and he sometimes falls over when trying to stretch it out,this can also happen when he gets on his back for a stretch where sometimes for a couple of seconds he cannot get back using his leg.I took him to the vets where she checked his health and the way he walked where she noticed he kicked out his back leg when he started to walk,and she also said he had a slow heart rate.In the end she said he may have a knee problem and said he must rest for 6 weeks which can be hard for he is still very energetic.I just want to know could this also be a problem with his slow heart rate?

[Misfits4Me]

Everything you describe (With the Leg) is classic for "Luxating Patellas".....You can google to read more......If this is what your dog is experiencing, Cage REST will do nothing for it!  Very common in small dogs & the kicking out is their way to put the joint back in.....A good Vet will be able to feel the Luxtation just with an physical examine......Very Simple!!!!
Sounds like yours is just guessing!

The Heart Rate is completely different & I would start with an ECG to check his heart function......At 10 years old, Heart Disease is not uncommon......Your regular Vet should be able to do it....Then, go from there...Good luck & let us know....Karla

[BluCrystal]

I worked for a vet for 8 years.  I seriously doubt that any heart condition he may have has anything to do with his leg.  When your vet told you 'rest for 6 weeks' she actually meant to literally not allow ANY unecessary movement for 6 weeks.  I had to do this with one of my cats, and it worked, but it was HARD to do, always feeling bad for keeping her in a cage.  If you have a kennel, that is best: A mid-sized 'carrier' or kennel large enough for your dog and food and water.  Carry him out to go potty, allowing minimal movement, and carry him back in, straight to the kennel.  I won't lie: this is not fun for you or your dog.  You might want to request a calming medication for him from your vet, so that he remains slightly sedated, and more comfortable caged up.  Blessings for you and your dog - Blu