Camelid lameness and podiatry

Anatomy

Camelids bear weight on both P2 and P3 rather than just on P3 as with most large animal species. There is no navicular bone. They walk on double pads with a claw in front. The claw is non-weightbearing but is important for traction and propulsion. A digital cushion supports both P2 and P3.

Other notable anatomical features:

• In most animals, the medial and lateral compartments of the fetlock joint are separate (unlike in cattle).
• The superficial digital flexor tendon has a direct fascial connection to the proximal suspensory ligament (so issues with one tend to impact both)
• More in Chapter 58 – Musculoskeletal Surgery of Llama and Alpaca Care
• Smaller camelids can manage with 3 limbs so amputation is a feasible option. Similarly, postoperative care and fracture management are easier due to the ability to use slings and various splints. A light weight body also means camelids can be treated with implants designed for dogs, horses or humans; hence, a  wider variety of options exists for repair of injuries or abnormalities.

Foot issues

Camelids are not prone to foot rot but can get interdigital dermatitis if conditions are right (moisture + trauma). The same conditions and organisms can cause ulcerative pododermatitis of the foot pads. Treatment requires removal of any loose skin or pad, antiseptics and protection with a wrap or bootie. The animal should be kept in a clean, dry environment. Antibiotics may be needed for deep infections.

The dorsal interdigital region and heel area are both common sites for chorioptic mange.

Resources

Pain management in small ruminants and camelids: Analgesic agents.Vet Clin North Am Food Anim Pract . 2021 Mar;37(1):1-16.

Llama and Alpaca Care.  Medicine, Surgery, Reproduction, Nutrition, and Herd Health.  Elsevier, 2014.