PES VARUS: WHAT IS IT?
I often look after many different dachshunds with health issues. Most have IVDD but most recently I have been caring for Cooper a beautiful Dachshund with Pes Varus.
What is Pes Varus?
You might be asking what is Pes Varus?
It is a deformity affecting the legs. The dog appears to be bow legged or walking like a cowboy!
Is it Genetic?
It is a genetic problem, and you must report any diagnosis to your breeder. Your puppy has inherited the gene from both of its parents who pass on the gene to 50% of their offspring.
There is however no current gene test to identify carriers.
Generally, it is diagnosed around 4 to 8 months of age. You may notice your puppy limping at first before you see any bow leggedness.
It starts with the shin bone plates closing too early in their development.
It has been found in all 3 coat varieties and sizes.
Treatment
The only Treatment is surgery.
Without surgery they will most likely become immobile. Osteoarthritis is also inevitable.
The disease ranges from mild to severe and can be in one or both back legs. The disease can cause an inability to run and play, with dogs often stopping to rest after a few steps. This is what happened to my Elvis who came to me as a rescue aged 14 months. He also had other skeletal issues.
With Surgery the surgeon performs an open wedge osteotomy. A frame is attached to keep the joint secure. The frame is normally kept on for 8 to 16 weeks.
Aftercare
It is whilst this framework is on that they need to be restricted. This in itself is fun as they are only puppies and want to be out playing and running.
I have heard that some owners get strong drugs from the vets to keep the dog’s calm. I honestly believe there are better ways.
After surgery and the frame is removed then you need to check that your home is satisfactory. For smooth shiny floors I would recommend rugs on the floor or Yoga mats to make it easier to walk.
Also keeping their nails trimmed regularly is an absolute must.
I use Rose Hip Vital and recommend looking at introducing it to your dog.
Hemp Oil is a great plant based product to give as well.
After care: Rose Hip Vital and Hemp Oil are recommended.
Have you ever had a dachshund with Pes Varus?
What has been your experience with Pes Varus?
Let me know in the comments.
My miniature dachshund puppy (6month old) has pes varus. We’ve notified the breeder, but breeder response is that genetics is not the only cause and they reckon it is not the case with our puppy because none of the others in the same litter (or from previous 2 litters) has this issue.
The breeder says it can also occur from wrong nutrition (not enough calcium) – which is unlikely in our case as puppy has good weight and has been fed kibble specific for dachshund puppy.
The breeder also questioned if the puppy ever had a fall, causing hip displasia – we confirmed puppy never had a fall and from vet Xray check (twice) no issue was found with the hip.
Can you please advise if it’s correct that since no other puppy from the litter has pes varus, then this is not a genetic issue? And what would other cause might be?
Thank you