An Elbow Dysplasia Success Story.....

Inka is a beautiful pedigree Bernese Mountain Dog who was re-homed by her breeder to her current owners at the age of 12 months.

Unfortunately she was suffering from elbow dysplasia, but that did not put Derek and Marion off (who had previously owned two other Bernese), they were prepared for a journey that would include considerable treatment for Inka.

Already showing signs of lameness, Inka was receiving cartrofen injections every four weeks (July 2004). Derek and Marion wasted no time in registering Inka with a local vet, who recommended that she would benefit from swimming, which should start as soon as possible.

Swimming would provide Inka with non weight bearing exercise, helping to prevent muscle wastage and keep her fit in preparation for an inevitable operation on her elbow.

Derek and Marion brought Inka to Aqua Dogs in late July 2004 and her hydrotherapy began. Inka swam once a week until her operation (an elbow arthrotomy).

After an eight week rest Inka resumed her weekly swimming sessions until May 2005, when, her swims were reduced to bi-weekly sessions, which continued until September 2005.

It is almost inevitable that Inka will suffer from arthritis in her elbow as she gets older, so she continues to swim once a month to help to maintain mobility in the joint, and for her general fitness.

Inka had her last cartrofen injection in July 2004, her hydrotherapy programme and surgery have restored her to a fit and healthy dog, who now enjoys life to the full.