newborn lab appears to have deformed back legs

My yellow lab had 10 puppies this weekend and one appears to have deformed back legs. They are pointed straight down as if the tendons across the tops of the feet don't pull them up...so the pads don't touch the floor when she pulls her legs up.

I can bend them into place, but they don't stay. Have you heard of this? I am considering taping them into the correct position to help stretch the back tendons and to let the front ones shorten/tighten? I'm sure she'd be really happy about that! :-)

Any other ideas? Or is it possible that as she matures this will correct itself as she starts to try to walk? Thanks!!






Hi
I'm sorry to hear about this little pups' legs, but I strongly recommend that you have a veterinarian examine her before you attempt any sort of corrections.

It's important to find out whether these legs have developed with the bones/ligaments/tendons etc. or if something is 'missing'. If they're not fully developed, simply taping them in place won't help.

It could be that the legs are structurally fine, but that her position in the womb caused this strange posture (10 puppies is a big litter and obviously they would have been short of space!), in which case hopefully they can be coaxed into position. However, if it's a developmental problem rather than a 'positional' one, she may need more extensive help.

Only your vet can make an accurate diagnosis so please have him take a look. I wish you the best of luck and hope this little girl does well.