Table of Contents
Understanding Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs and Cats: Causes Symptoms, and Treatment
Commonality: Moderate
Transmission: Not Contagious
Impact on Health: Medium to High
Symptoms: Limping, Stiffness, Reluctance to play or exercise, Joint swelling, Pain when moving the elbow
Treatment Cost: >$3000-8000AUD
Treatment Time: Weeks to Months depending on severity.
Ease of Prevention: Medium
Most affected Cat Breeds: Persians and Maine Coons
Most Affected Dog Breeds: Rottweilers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers and Chow Chows head the list of breeds with a high prevalence of this orthopaedic problem, but any dog can suffer from elbow dysplasia.
Most Affected Cat Breed : Persians, Siamese, Norwegian Forrest cat, Bengal Cat and Main Coons
Symptoms:Intermittent limping, elbow pain and stiffness, reduced range of motion, swelling, decreased activity, abnormal gait, reluctance to play, and occasional clicking noises from the joint.
Treatment Cost: $1,000 – $6,500+
Treatment and Recovery Time:
Non Surgial – Ongoing Management
Surgical: 3-6 months for full recovery + Ongoing Managment
Ease of Prevention: Medium
Covered By Petsy – Yes,, if it’s not classified as a pre-existing condition
Table of contents
Key Takeaways
- Understanding elbow dysplasia in dogs and cats is crucial for early detection and effective management.
- Regular veterinary check-ups can help diagnose elbow dysplasia early, leading to better treatment outcomes.
- Non-surgical alternatives like weight management, physical therapy, and supplements can complement treatment plans for elbow dysplasia.
- Surgical interventions may be necessary in severe cases of elbow dysplasia to improve the quality of life for affected pets.
- Preventive measures such as controlled exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and breed-specific care can reduce the risk of elbow dysplasia in dogs and cats.
- Tailoring long-term health management strategies to individual pets can help mitigate the impact of elbow dysplasia and improve their overall well-being.
What is Elbow Dysplasia
For the Non-Vets
Imagine a door with hinges that are slightly misaligned. When you try to open or close the door, it doesn’t move smoothly; it sticks, creaks, and sometimes won’t close properly. Over time, the repeated strain on the misaligned hinges causes them to wear out and damage the door frame, making it even harder to use the door.
Elbow dysplasia in pets is similar to this misaligned door. The elbow joint, like the door hinge, is supposed to move smoothly. However, when it’s improperly formed, the bones and cartilage don’t fit together correctly. This causes the joint to grind and wear down, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving, much like the door struggling to open and close. Over time, the joint becomes damaged and arthritic, just as the door hinges and frame become increasingly worn out.
The Vets Response
Elbow dysplasia is a developmental condition characterised by the abnormal formation of the elbow joint. This improper development results in the humerus, radius, and ulna not fitting together perfectly, causing areas of abnormally high contact pressure.
This pressure leads to various problems, which can include fragmented medial coronoid process (FMCP), osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the medial humeral condyle, ununited anconeal process (UAP), and elbow incongruity 1,2.
Understanding Elbow Dysplasia
Let’s start with understanding the elbow joint. The elbow joint in pets is formed by three bones: the humerus, radius, and ulna. In a healthy joint, these bones fit together perfectly, allowing smooth and painless movement.
Elbow dysplasia” is an umbrella term for a group of different conditions that affect this joint. Each condition affects the joint differently but ultimately leads to similar problems: misalignment, instability, pain, and arthritis 1,2. Here are the main conditions that fall under elbow dysplasia, explained simply:
Fragmented Medial Coronoid Process (FMCP):
This condition occurs when a small piece of the coronoid process, part of the ulna bone, breaks off inside the joint 2,3. Think of it like a hinge on a door that has a small piece broken off. This causes the door to catch and grind whenever it’s moved. Similarly, the broken fragment in the elbow joint causes pain and inflammation as it grinds against other parts of the joint.
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD):
OCD happens when the cartilage in the elbow joint develops abnormally 1,4. This leads to cracks and loose pieces of cartilage and bone. Imagine if the surface of a hinge started to crack and bits of it broke off. These loose pieces cause the joint to move poorly and become painful.
Ununited Anconeal Process (UAP):
In this condition, a part of the ulna called the anconeal process doesn’t fuse properly with the main bone during growth 3,5. Picture a hinge that is supposed to lock into place but doesn’t, leaving it loose and wobbly. This instability in the joint causes pain and can lead to further joint problems. UAP mostly affects young dogs between 5 and 9 months old, especially larger breeds like Rottweilers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers and Chow Chows 1. However, it can also appear in older dogs, causing sudden severe lameness. 1
Elbow Incongruity:
Elbow incongruity occurs when the bones of the elbow (humerus, radius, and ulna) do not grow at the same rate, leading to a poorly fitting joint 6. Imagine if all three hinges on a door were slightly misaligned, causing uneven pressure and wear. This makes it difficult to open and close the door smoothly. Similarly, when the bones in the elbow don’t grow together correctly, it causes misalignment and joint instability, leading to pain and difficulty in movement.
While these conditions have different specific causes and effects, they all result in the elbow joint not developing correctly, which is why they are collectively referred to as elbow dysplasia.
Causes of Elbow Dysplasia
Hereditary Factors
Elbow dysplasia in dogs and cats is primarily hereditary, with a higher incidence in medium-to-large breeds 7. The condition often stems from genetic predispositions passed down through generations7. These hereditary factors contribute significantly to the development of elbow dysplasia in pets.
The inheritance of specific genes linked to elbow dysplasia can result in serious cases of the condition. Certain breeds are more prone to these genetic abnormalities, leading to issues in the development and structure of the elbow joint. This genetic predisposition increases the likelihood of pets experiencing discomfort and mobility issues in their front legs.
Genetic testing can help identify potential risks associated with hereditary elbow dysplasia. By understanding the genetic makeup of a pet, veterinarians can offer tailored advice on managing the condition and mitigating its impact on the animal’s quality of life.
Environmental Influences
Apart from genetic factors, environmental influences such as diet and exercise levels can also contribute to the development of elbow dysplasia in dogs and cats. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is crucial for maintaining joint health and preventing the onset of musculoskeletal disorders.
Regular exercise plays a vital role in keeping pets at a healthy weight and promoting overall joint function. However, excessive or inappropriate physical activity can strain the joints, potentially exacerbating existing elbow dysplasia symptoms. It is essential for pet owners to strike a balance between exercise and rest to protect their furry companions from joint-related issues.
Environmental modifications, such as providing orthopaedic bedding and implementing controlled exercise routines, can help manage elbow dysplasia symptoms effectively. By creating a supportive environment that minimises stress on the joints, pet owners can enhance their pets’ comfort and mobility.
Genetic Traits
Genetic traits play a crucial role in determining the specific abnormalities that manifest in pets affected by elbow dysplasia7. These traits influence the structural integrity of the joints in dogs and cats, impacting their overall mobility and comfort levels. Understanding the genetic basis of elbow dysplasia is key to developing targeted treatment plans for affected animals.
Pets with certain genetic predispositions may exhibit symptoms of elbow dysplasia at an early age, highlighting the importance of proactive veterinary care8. Early detection through regular check-ups and diagnostic tests allows veterinarians to intervene promptly, improving the prognosis for pets with this condition.
Recognizing Symptoms
Elbow dysplasia in dogs and cats manifests through various symptoms that owners should watch out for7 .
| Common Symptoms | Description |
|---|---|
| Swollen Elbows | Swelling around the elbow joint may be visible or palpable. The area might feel warm to the touch due to inflammation. |
| Holding the Elbow Abnormally | Affected pets may hold their elbow outward or at an abnormal angle to reduce discomfort. |
| Reduced Range of Motion | Symptomatic dogs and cats may also experience a notable decrease in their range of motion. This reduced flexibility can be observed when the animals struggle to perform regular activities like jumping or climbing stairs. |
| Stiffness | Stiffness in the hindquarters is common, particularly after exercise or prolonged inactivity. |
| Worsened Limp | After engaging in physical activities, pets with elbow dysplasia might display a worsened limp. This exacerbation of the limp post-exercise is a key indicator of the condition's impact on their mobility. |
| Pain and Discomfort | This is often the first and most noticeable symptom. Dogs or cats may express pain through vocalisations, reluctance to move, or a hunched back. They might also react sharply when touched along their elbow. |
Diagnosing Elbow Dysplasia
Clinical Examination
History Taking: The veterinarian will begin by asking about the pet’s medical history, symptoms, and any incidents that might have led to the current condition, such as falls or injuries.Physical Examination
During the diagnosis of elbow dysplasia in dogs and cats, veterinarians typically begin with a physical exam. This involves assessing the animal’s gait, joint movement, and any signs of discomfort or pain. The vet may manipulate the affected limb to evaluate the range of motion and identify areas of tenderness. Elbow dysplasia can manifest differently in each animal, so a thorough physical examination is crucial for diagnosing this condition accurately. Veterinarians pay close attention to subtle signs such as limping, stiffness, or reluctance to engage in physical activities. These observations help guide further diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of elbow dysplasia. In some cases, dogs and cats may exhibit no outward signs of discomfort despite having elbow dysplasia. Therefore, a comprehensive physical examination remains a fundamental step in identifying this orthopaedic condition early on.Imaging
Radiographs play a pivotal role in diagnosing elbow dysplasia. These imaging techniques provide detailed pictures of the elbow joints, allowing veterinarians to assess the alignment, structure, and integrity of the bones and surrounding tissues 9. During the diagnostic process, animals may require sedation or a short-acting anaesthetic to ensure they remain still for clear radiographic images. By examining these radiographs, veterinarians can detect abnormalities such as fragmented coronoid process (FCP), ununited anconeal process (UAP), or osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) – common components of elbow dysplasia. Radiographs help determine the severity of joint degeneration and formulate an appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual needs of each patient 7. Consulting with veterinary radiologists may be necessary in complex cases to obtain a dysplasia prognosis and ensure an accurate diagnosis. Their expertise in interpreting radiographic images can offer valuable insights into the extent of joint damage and aid in determining the most effective course of action for managing elbow dysplasia in dogs and cats.Grading elbow dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is graded based on radiographic findings, which don’t always match the clinical signs observed. Some dogs with mild radiographic changes (Grade 1) may experience significant discomfort, while others with more severe changes (Grade 3) might show minimal symptoms 7.- Grade 1: Minimal bone changes along the anconeal process of the ulna, typically less than 2 mm .
- Grade 2: Moderate bone proliferation along the anconeal process, ranging from 2 to 5 mm, along with subchondral bone changes, such as sclerosis in the trochlear notch.
- Grade 3: Severe degenerative joint disease characterised by well-developed bone proliferation along the anconeal process, exceeding 5 mm.
Importance of Accurate Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis of elbow dysplasia is crucial for ensuring effective treatment and management, ultimately improving the quality of life for affected pets. Early and precise identification of the condition allows for timely interventions that can prevent or slow its progression, reducing long-term joint damage and associated pain. Accurate diagnosis enables veterinarians to tailor treatment plans to the specific needs of the pet, enhancing the effectiveness of medications, physical therapy, and surgical options. It also prevents unnecessary treatments and reduces the risk of side effects from inappropriate care. For pet owners, an accurate diagnosis provides clarity, enabling informed decisions about their pet’s care and ensuring appropriate insurance coverage. Overall, accurate diagnosis is key to managing elbow dysplasia effectively, ensuring pets remain comfortable and active.Treatment and Recovery of Elbow Dysplasia
Surgical intervention is often the most effective treatment for elbow dysplasia in pets, as the elbow joint cannot correct itself. Various surgical procedures are tailored to address the specific type of dysplasia present and to improve joint function, reduce pain, and slow the progression of arthritis. The primary goal of surgery in these cases is to alleviate pain, enhance joint function, and prevent further degeneration of the affected joint.
When it comes to surgical procedures for elbow dysplasia, veterinarians may opt for different approaches based on the specific needs of the individual animal. Common procedures or each type of elbow disease may include:
Surgical Treatments
Ununited Anconeal Process (UAP):
Fragment Removal
Fragment removal is performed when a piece of the elbow bone, called the anconeal process, is broken, out of place, or causing problems 1. During this procedure, the veterinarian makes a cut on the side of the elbow to access the joint. They then lift a muscle to see the problem bone piece and use tools to grab and cut it away. While this can alleviate some issues, it often leads to a wobbly elbow, especially in older dogs, and long-term results are generally less favorable 1.
Ulnar Osteotomy
Ulnar osteotomy is used when the elbow bones aren’t lined up correctly, causing pain and pressure. In this procedure, the veterinarian cuts into the back of the elbow bone (ulna) and makes an angled cut to help the bone move and fit better 1. The goal is to relieve pressure and improve the alignment of the joint. However, the success of this procedure varies, with some dogs experiencing significant improvement and others not as much. Successful healing often depends on the development of good fibrous tissue 1.
Lag Screw Fixation and Ulnar Osteotomy
This combined procedure is indicated when the anconeal process is healthy but out of place 1. The goal is to reattach this bone piece to the ulna, restoring normal function to the elbow. The veterinarian makes a cut to expose the elbow bones, cleans and prepares the bone surfaces, and screws the anconeal process back onto the ulna 1. A small pin (K-wire) is added to keep it stable, and an ulnar osteotomy is performed to help the bones align correctly. This method is usually very effective, with most dogs experiencing less lameness, successful bone healing, and a halt in arthritis progression.
Fragmented Medial Coronoid Process (FMCP):
Fragmented Coronoid Removal (Arthrotomy) This surgery is where the vet makes a large cut to open up the elbow and take out a broken piece of bone called the coronoid process 1.They carefully look inside the elbow, remove any loose bone pieces, and clean up the area to help it heal. About 42% of dogs walk normally after this surgery, but 30% may still limp 1. Fragmented Coronoid Process Removal (Arthroscopy) In this less invasive surgery, the vet uses a tiny camera and special tools to remove the broken bone piece through small cuts 1.The vet makes small incisions, inserts the camera into the elbow, and uses the tools while watching on a screen. This method works better, with 60% of dogs walking normally and only 10% still limping 1. Subtotal Coronoidectomy (SCO) This surgery involves removing a large part of the damaged coronoid process to reduce pain and improve movement 1. The vet removes a big triangular piece of the coronoid process, which can be done through a bigger cut or small cuts 1. This helps reduce damage to other parts of the elbow and improves walking, with benefits lasting up to five years. Dynamic Proximal Ulnar Osteotomy In this surgery, the vet changes how the elbow joint handles weight to make it feel better 1.They cut the ulna (one of the elbow bones) in a special way, which changes how the elbow supports weight and helps it work more normally. Dogs usually do well after this surgery, but there isn’t a lot of scientific proof yet. It can slow down arthritis in the joint 1. Sliding Humeral Osteotomy – This surgery shifts the weight-bearing load from the inside to the outside of the elbow joint. The vet makes a special cut in the humerus (another elbow bone) to change how the elbow supports weight 1.Elbow OCD
Joint Incongruence Joint incongruency happens when the bones in the elbow don’t fit together properly, causing discomfort and instability. The best treatment for this is called a proximal ulnar osteotomy. In this procedure, the vet cuts the ulna (one of the elbow bones) to help the bones align better 1. Diagnosing joint incongruence is difficult because regular X-rays, MRI, and arthroscopy don’t measure it well 1.Only CT scans can accurately show the problem, but they aren’t always available. This makes it hard to evaluate how well the surgery works or compare different surgical methods. Ununited Medial Epicondyle Ununited medial epicondyle is a rare condition affecting the elbow joint, where extra bone growth (spurring) or 1.Surgery to treat this involves either removing the extra bone fragments or fixing them with screws. Both methods generally result in a good prognosis, meaning the dog recovers well and experiences less pain and improved function. Incomplete Ossification of the Humeral Condyle This condition is seen on X-rays as a line in the humerus (upper arm bone) where the bone hasn’t fully formed, separating the two growth centres of the bone 1. It’s usually treated by inserting a screw to hold the bone together, which helps stabilise the area and allows the dog to move normally again. Most dogs respond well to this treatment, although some may not show complete bone healing on follow-up X-rays or CT scans 1.Surgical Recovery
Postoperative care following elbow replacement surgery is crucial for successful recovery. Pets undergoing this procedure may need strict monitoring during the initial healing phase to prevent complications and ensure optimal outcomes. Veterinary professionals provide detailed instructions on postoperative care, including medication administration, rehabilitation exercises, and follow-up appointments to monitor progress.
Non-surgical options
If surgery is not an option, there are several medical management strategies that can help make your dog more comfortable and manage the symptoms of severe arthritis associated with elbow dysplasia. While these methods can’t fix the underlying problem, they can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life.
Weight Management
Weight management is a crucial aspect of non-surgical alternatives for elbow dysplasia in dogs and cats. Excess weight can exacerbate joint pain and inflammation, leading to further discomfort for the affected pets. By maintaining a healthy weight, the stress on the joints is reduced, improving mobility and overall joint health.
Effective weight management strategies include controlled feeding to prevent overeating, regular exercise tailored to the pet’s needs, and monitoring body condition to ensure gradual and sustained weight loss. Implementing these measures can significantly alleviate the symptoms of elbow dysplasia and enhance the quality of life for pets suffering from this condition1,11.
Nutritional Supplements In addition to weight management, nutritional supplements play a vital role in managing pain and inflammation associated with elbow dysplasia. Supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids can help support joint health and reduce discomfort in affected animals7. These supplements work by promoting cartilage repair and reducing inflammation within the joints 1,11.
Exercise
Moderate exercise is beneficial for moving the joint and building muscle cushion. Always ensure proper warm-up and cool-down periods. For example, if your dog enjoys playing fetch, start with a 10-minute walk to loosen their joints before engaging in more vigorous activity 1,7,11.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can be very helpful, even if surgery isn’t an option. Techniques such as massage and hydrotherapy (like underwater treadmills and swimming) can improve joint function. Additional treatments such as laser therapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENs), ice therapy, and acupuncture may also provide relief.
Pain Medications
Your veterinarian may recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like carprofen, to help manage pain and keep your pet comfortable 1,7,11. These medications work by reducing inflammation within the joints, providing relief from pain associated with elbow dysplasia.
It is essential for pet owners to follow the veterinarian’s instructions carefully when administering medications to their pets. Proper dosage and monitoring for any potential side effects are crucial aspects of medication management for elbow dysplasia. By combining medications with other non-surgical alternatives like weight management and physical therapy, pet owners can create a comprehensive treatment plan to address their pet’s condition effectively.
Joint Supplements
Supplements containing ingredients like glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, and chondroitin can promote healthy cartilage and increase joint fluid, which act as cushions for the joints 1,7,11.Consult with your veterinarian to choose the most effective supplement for your dog.
Injectables
Adequan is an injectable drug that can help alleviate pain associated with osteoarthritis, though it doesn’t treat the elbow dysplasia itself. Injecting platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into the joint has also shown some success 1,7,11. Synovetin OA is a newer injectable that uses electron therapy to target cells in the painful joint. It must be injected directly into the affected area by a veterinarian 1,7,11.
Braces
While braces are available for elbow dysplasia, they are generally more effective for conditions like luxations (dislocations), hygromas (fluid buildup around joints), and ligament tears rather than loose cartilage or bone 1,7,11. If you choose to try a brace, proper fit is crucial, so involve your veterinarian or a veterinary rehab specialist in the decision-making process 1,7,11.
Cost of Treatment
The cost of treating elbow dysplasia in dogs and cats varies significantly depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen treatment method. Non-surgical treatments, which include initial consultations, diagnostics, weight management, physical therapy, pain management, and supplements, can range from $1,000 to $3,000 annually. Surgical treatments, such as arthroscopy, osteotomy, or elbow replacement, can range from $2,500 to $6,500 per surgery, including post-operative care.
Disclaimer : These costs can vary based on the veterinary practice and the specific needs of the pet.
We encourage pet owners to take proactive steps in maintaining their pet’s joint health through regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate exercise, and nutrition tailored to their breed’s specific needs. Additionally, managing your pet’s weight and providing supportive bedding can further protect their joints from potential stress and injury.
Prevention Tips
Healthy lifestyle
Maintaining a nutritious diet and appropriate exercise levels is essential for preventing elbow dysplasia in dogs and cats. Providing a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports overall joint health and reduces the risk of musculoskeletal issues.
Regular exercise helps in maintaining muscle strength and joint flexibility, which are crucial for preventing conditions like elbow dysplasia. Controlled physical activity tailored to the animal’s age, size, and breed can contribute significantly to joint health.
Avoiding excessive weight gain is also vital as it puts additional stress on the joints, increasing the likelihood of developing orthopaedic problems such as elbow dysplasia. Weight management through proper nutrition and exercise is key to preventing joint issues in pets.
Regular Veterinary Check-ups
Regular veterinary check-ups are instrumental in preventing and managing elbow dysplasia in dogs and cats. Veterinarians can conduct physical examinations and diagnostic tests to detect early signs of joint abnormalities before they progress into severe conditions.
Early intervention is crucial once elbow dysplasia is suspected or diagnosed. Treatment options such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for pets affected by this orthopaedic disorder.
Veterinary professionals may recommend specific preventive measures based on an individual animal’s risk factors and health status. By closely monitoring pets’ joint health and addressing any concerns promptly, owners can work proactively towards preventing elbow dysplasia.
Environmental Management
Providing a safe and supportive environment helps reduce joint stress. Use ramps to help your pet avoid stairs, provide soft and supportive bedding, and keep floors non-slippery to prevent falls and injuries.
Breeding Considerations:
Breeders play a crucial role in preventing elbow dysplasia by selectively breeding dogs and cats to reduce the risk of hereditary transmission. By choosing breeding pairs carefully, they aim to eliminate genetic predispositions to this condition.
Breeding practices focus on pairing animals with healthy elbow joints to minimise the chances of passing on defective genes linked to elbow dysplasia. This approach helps in reducing the prevalence of the disease in subsequent generations.
To ensure responsible breeding, genetic testing is often conducted to identify carriers of the genes associated with elbow dysplasia. By screening potential parents, breeders can make informed decisions to prevent the spread of this orthopaedic condition.
Getting Elbow Dysplasia Covered with Pet Insurance
What is Petsy Pet Insurance?
Petsy Pet Insurance is an insurance policy that reimburses 80% or 90% of vet costs for the treatment of your pet if they suffer an unexpected injury or illness (provided these occur after any applicable exclusion period has ended symptom free).
Our policy is customisable and you’ll be able to tailor the level of coverage, based on your preferences for the Benefit Percentage, Annual Limit, Annual Excess, whether or not you’d like Optional Extra Benefits (if your pet is less than 3 years old) and whether or not you’d like to include costs of Vet Consultations for your cover.
You get to see a summary of the cover when completing an online quote and have the option to select a preferred start date. After making the payment, you’ll receive a confirmation of cover and your policy documents by email.
For added peace of mind, we offer a complimentary Pre-Existing Condition Assessment for all our members. This includes collecting your pet’s vet history upfront which helps to fast-track any future claims and we’ll also let you know whether there are any pre-existing conditions noted in their medical history that might affect your ongoing coverage.
Claims are quick and easy, and your vet can submit claims on your behalf. Approved claims are paid into your nominated bank account.
What is a pre-existing condition?
Under the terms of the policy, Pre-existing Condition is defined as:
An Injury, Illness, Dental Illness, Behavioural Condition or Specified Condition (including Bilateral Conditions, recurrent Conditions and other conditions that are related to, secondary to, or results of) that:
- first occurred or showed symptoms of; or
- was identified or investigated by a Vet; or
- You were aware of or a reasonable person in the circumstances could be expected to have known about, before Your Pet’s First Date of Cover; before a change of coverage became effective, or during any applicable Exclusion Period.
Whether a condition is considered a pre-existing condition depends on when the signs or symptoms occurred and when the exclusion periods on your policy end. Anything that happened before the exclusion periods ended is considered a pre-existing condition because it started before your coverage began.
Covered by Petsy: We cover Elbow Dysplasia as long as it’s not pre-existing condition and your pet hasn’t shown signs or symptoms of the condition within the exclusion period.
A specified condition includes specific health issues, including cruciate ligament damage, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), hip dysplasia, patella luxation, elbow dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), cherry eye, entropion, ectropion, and lumps.
Elbow Dysplasia is a specified condition that has a 6 month exclusion period.
Once this period has passed and as long as your pet hasn’t shown symptoms, we can help to cover the vet costs for unexpected injuries and illnesses like Elbow Dysplasia.
Can Petsy Insurance Cover My Pet’s Elbow Dysplasia?
It depends on when you started your policy. If the signs or symptoms of Elbow Dysplasia appeared before your policy began or during the exclusion period, it won’t be covered. But if you had an active policy and Elbow Dysplasia happened unexpectedly, we can help to cover the costs.
If you’re a Petsy customer and are unsure about your exclusion periods and when the symptoms first appeared, you can request a pre-existing condition assessment. We’ll reach out to your vet for your pet’s medical history and let you know if your policy can cover it.
If you’re considering Petsy Pet Insurance, you can also reach out to our customer care team on 1300 952 790 for more information.
Does Petsy cover Elbow Dysplasia?
Yes, Elbow Dysplasia is covered under our standard policy. However, we can’t cover it if it’s a pre-existing condition, for example, if signs or symptoms appeared before your policy started or during the exclusion period. Petsy is here to protect you against unexpected vet costs.
How Petsy Pet Insurance can help with Elbow Dysplasia
At Petsy, we understand how difficult it is when your pet faces Elbow Dysplasia. Our insurance can help cover the costs of treatment, but it’s important to start your policy early, before any signs or symptoms appear.
Stay alert to any signs of Elbow Dysplasia, and seek veterinary care proactively. Catching things early can make a big difference in your pet’s well-being and help them receive the best possible care.
Waiver Form
You can apply to reduce the 6-month exclusion period for Specified Conditions by using our Waiver Form. Simply take this form to your next vet visit and make sure to submit the completed form back to us within 14 days of the visit.
The conditions that this waiver applies to include cruciate ligament damage, intervertebral disc disease, hip dysplasia, patella luxation, elbow dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), cherry eye, entropion, ectropion, and lumps.
Here’s how to apply:
- Fill out Part 1: You start by completing Part 1 of the form.
- Vet Examination: Have your vet examine your pet and complete Part 2 of the form.
- Submit the Form: Send the completed form along with your pet’s full veterinary history to us within 14 days of the examination.
- Receive an updated Certificate of Insurance: Once the review is complete, we’ll issue an updated Certificate of Insurance detailing any reduced exclusion periods for specified conditions.
You can find the waiver form on our website under the ‘Policy Documents’ section, or contact us directly and we’ll send it to you.
Conclusion
Understanding elbow dysplasia in dogs and cats is crucial for providing the best care for your furry companions. By recognising the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available, you can ensure a healthier and happier life for your pets. Remember to stay vigilant for any signs of discomfort or mobility issues and consult your veterinarian promptly to address any concerns. With early diagnosis and appropriate interventions, you can significantly improve your pet’s quality of life and prevent further complications. Stay informed, stay proactive, and give your pets the love and attention they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Elbow dysplasia is a common orthopaedic condition in dogs and cats involving abnormal development of the elbow joint, leading to pain and lameness.
Veterinarians diagnose elbow dysplasia through a combination of physical examination, X-rays, and sometimes additional imaging techniques like CT scans or MRI.
Treatment options for elbow dysplasia include medication for pain management, weight management, physiotherapy, surgery to correct joint abnormalities, and lifestyle modifications.
While genetics play a significant role in elbow dysplasia, maintaining a healthy weight, providing proper nutrition, avoiding excessive exercise during growth stages, and regular vet check-ups can help prevent or manage the condition.
Certain dog breeds are more prone to elbow dysplasia due to genetic predispositions. Breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Bernese Mountain Dogs are among those commonly affected.
References
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- Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center. Elbow dysplasia | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine [Internet]. www.vet.cornell.edu. [cited 2024 Jul 15]. Available from: https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/elbow-dysplasia
- Fitzpatrick N, Yeadon R. Working algorithm for treatment decision making for developmental disease of the medial compartment of the elbow in dogs. Veterinary Surgery. 2009 Feb 1;38(2):285.
- Pimenta MS. Anatomical and imaging studies of the humeroulnar congruity in dogs (Doctoral dissertation, Universidade de Tras-os-Montes e Alto Douro (Portugal)).
- Fitzpatrick Referrals. Elbow Dysplasia [Internet]. Fitzpatrick Referrals. [cited 2024 Jul 15]. Available from: https://www.fitzpatrickreferrals.co.uk/orthopaedics/canine-elbow-dysplasia/#:~:text=Non%2Dsurgical%20treatments%20for%20elbow%20dysplasia
