new dog question ... bluetick coonhound, leg development

[GA Jamie]

Hi, just today, we rescued a pup from our local humane shelter. This pup was born in the shelter and is now about 4 1/2 months old. As we were filling out the forms, we were informed that the vet stated its legs were not developing properly and put him on vitamins. Since being on the vitamins, he is doing better. We continued with the adoption and observed him while at home. He appears to walk and run fine. Should we be concerned? His front legs are much thicker than his rear. I've been looking at pics on line and this appears to be normal.

Any suggestions? Any experience with Bluetick Coonhounds? Do's or don'ts we should be aware of?

TIA!
Jamie

[Traci]

When were the vitamins started? I don't trust shelter vets, I strongly suggest getting your pup examined by your own vet, dewormed, vaccinations, etc.

[GA Jamie]

HI Traci,
I understand your point. I have the records of this pup. He has had two sets of shots, was parvo tested, and received ivomec dewormer. He will be going to our vet, once we can get an appointment. He is scheduled to be neutered and receive his rabies shot. I do not know when the vitamins were started but I can find out and request any other possible records as well. They did show the vitamins to me so I have reason to believe they aren't just giving me a line.

He's a cute little feller!



Jamie

[davet]

i suspect that any walking deficit, that is improving willwork itself out and even if it doesn't and it is not a serious thing the pup can spend the rest of its life with that deficit...the pup is happy, so the owner should be happy

[Traci]

Well, it's hard to say just by looking at the pics (looks like bassett legs )...but your vet can tell you whether this is caused by insufficient nutrients, a congenital disorder, etc and can advise you further on what can be done.

[GA Jamie]

I've contacted the shelter and inquired about the mother. They infomred me that she was rather malnourished and therefore the pups didn't get the proper nutrients from the start. This one in particular was the runt. Hopefully all will be well in the end.

Thanks,
Jamie

[Mary Plummer]

I hope so, too! He's adorable! I really adore hound dogs. Our dog, Mr. Blue, was a stray we took home with us when he was about 6 months old. Our vets' best guess is that he's a beagle/Catahoula mix. He's now 7, and going strong! I can offer just some general tips about hounds that I hope you find useful. First, they seem to live for 3 things: following their noses after interesting smells, eating, and getting lots of love from their people. The first means always making sure your dog is properly confined ouside, as in a fenced-in yard and leashed walks. Don't be shocked at your dog's hunting ability, either. Mr. Blue has caught rabbits, squirrels, moles, etc, sometimes while I'm holding the other end of the leash! Second, you may have to watch your dog's weight over time. I wish I would have done this better as Mr. Blue was growing up - he's now a bit pudgy. Finally, enjoy him! Mr. Blue is adorable, goofy, and incredibly stubborn if he really is determined. As you can probably tell, he's got me wrapped around his dew claw
Here's a pic of our guy:

[Marty]

Yes, hound dogs are wonderful! It is hard to tell from the picture, but maybe this will help. Biscotti (Basset) was a rescue at about 2 yr. I have always thougt her right front leg turned out a little bit, and still do....she is 9 now. Vet has never pursued it (Bassets have crooked legs) and neither did I. She has been fine.....chases squirrels and birds, runs and jumps like a youngun! I don't think I would worry, unless the Vet definitely can find a problem and fix it. I don't really even see signs of arthritis in Biscotti.....knock on wood somewhere!