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Published on: November 28, 2025
Accessory carpal bone luxation in two gray wolves (Canis lupus)
Dominique L Keller1, Michelle Ellison, Victoria L Clyde
1Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, USA. dkeller2@svm.vetmed.wisc.edu
Summary
Conservative management successfully treated carpal bone luxation in two gray wolves (Canis lupus). This study highlights a non-surgical approach for acute forelimb lameness in wolves, offering an alternative to surgical interventions.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Comparative Orthopedics
- Canine and Wildlife Surgery
Background:
- Gray wolves (Canis lupus) can develop orthopedic conditions affecting mobility.
- Acute forelimb lameness and carpal hyperextension are significant clinical signs in affected animals.
- Accessory carpal bone luxation is a recognized condition in canids, often requiring surgical intervention in domestic dogs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the presentation and outcome of accessory carpal bone luxation in two gray wolves.
- To evaluate the efficacy of conservative medical management for carpal bone luxation in wolves.
- To compare treatment outcomes with those typically seen in domestic dogs.
Main Methods:
- Clinical examination and radiographic assessment of two affected gray wolves.
- Diagnosis of right accessory carpal bone luxation, including a type III fracture in one case.
- Implementation of conservative medical management for the carpal condition.
Main Results:
- Both wolves presented with acute right forelimb lameness, carpal swelling, and hyperextension.
- Radiographs confirmed accessory carpal bone luxation in both siblings.
- Conservative medical management led to complete resolution of lameness and no complications in both wolves.
Conclusions:
- Accessory carpal bone luxation can occur in gray wolves, presenting with similar clinical signs to domestic dogs.
- Conservative medical management can be a successful treatment for carpal bone luxation in wolves, avoiding the need for surgery.
- This approach offers a viable alternative for managing carpal injuries in this species, differing from common practices in domestic dogs.
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