Does this dog have a 4th sacral vertebrae? - Page 1

Look at the x-ray on this dog and then look at the hip model. I circled what looks like the same boney vertebrae on the x-ray as the model. The vet is trying to say it's TWO fused together, making a 4th vertebrae. To me, it looks like it is ONE vertebrae. It is the FIRST sacral vertebrae which is supposed to be elongated. What do you all see? Are there 3 or 4 sacral vertebraes? By the way, this same vet MISPELLED vertebrae. He's also trying to say this dog has hip dysplasia when TWO other vets (same clinic as the 3rd) said he had good hips. I'm really about to go off on this so called university. Seems like a university of idiots!

Would be great to have a different view of the pelvis. I think I see what the Vet was referring to. However, it doesnt look like an extra vertebrea to me, but more like a possible old injury that built a pseudo "joint". The dog may not even notice this. There are also some genetic abnormalities common in GSDs that involve this exact vertebrae. If its a clinic associated with an University maybe you are able to talk them into a MRI for research at no cost to you.

i see only 3.  did your vet shoot any other films?  like one from the front?  that would be easier to read.

pjp

Sure! Here is one from the front. This one I REALLY only saw 3, so I didn't think to post it. Maybe you all will see something I don't, though?