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It is difficult to imagine how little "Lucy"
could ever be considered to be a dangerous wild animal but
the fact remains that she is recovering from a condition
known as "lion jaw!"
West Highland White terriers are a very popular breed of
dog and with good cause! Originating from Scotland (always
a good start!) they are generally more friendly and manageable
than other more tenacious terrier types. Generally confident,
they will interact well with family members and rarely cause
much anxiety amongst the Fairfield Staff! Unfortunately
though, they do seem to get more than their fair share of
problems.
Skin and respiratory disease are well documented and the
most common problems with which we will be confronted. "Lucy's"
condition however is much less common with only 1 case appearing
every few years. "Craniomandibular osteopathy"
or "Lion Jaw" is a hereditary disease which affects
primarily the bones of the skull, particularly the lower
jaw (mandible).
Occurring in young puppies aged around 4-6 months the mandible
undergoes a remarkable transformation. Large amounts of
new bone are produced around the lower jaw which can often
be very painful. This alteration results in a much larger
"set of jaws" for the patient's size which explains
the reference to lions! Usually, the disease will run it's
course and eventually the mandible will return to a more
acceptable shape. Pain relief is usually all that is required
throughout the course of this bizarre condition.
Thus far there have been no recorded reports of patients
developing a corresponding "roar". So as far as
"Lucy" is concerned I think we can consider ourselves
safe.............for the moment!
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