Hypothesis 3

Moderate tartar build up on teeth.  A piece broke loose and penetrated the oral mucosa.  
This set up a septicemic condition.  The bacteria spread hematogenously to the right stifle 
joint causing an infection within the capsule.  This set up an inflammation and fibrosis of 
the joint with fluid accumulation.  This fluid increases joint laxity allowing for patellar 
luxation.  Since the right stifle joint is so unstable, the dog is trying to compensate by 
using the left leg.  The overweight dog, placing most of her weight on the left leg, caused 
stress to the stifle joint.  This increased stress led to a higher pressure load on the joint 
causing pain.