Summary
Weight bearing patterns were investigated on a young Cocker Spaniel with dimelia (mirror
hand) of the left forelimb, using a pressure sensing walkway (PS walkway). The dog
had two left forelimb paws, both originating from the carpus, with symmetrical duplication
of metacarpal bones and phalanges. In addition, the left radial head was subluxated
and asynchronous growth of the left radius and ulna was noted. The PS walkway demonstrated
minimal weight-bearing of the extra (medial) paw and longer metacarpal pad contact
of the affected limb. The radiographic changes and the weight-bearing pattern during
gait suggested that more weight was loaded on the lateral paw of the affected limb.
Treatment was not recommended because of the relatively good limb function and the
absence of overt pain. This is the first reported case of canine dimelia and foot
pressure patterns in a canine congenital musculoskeletal deformity.
Keywords
Dog - deformity - dimelia - mirror hand - foot pressure
