Hip Dysplasia can be controlled and the symptoms mitigated through proper diagnosis. The diagnosis is usually carried out by observing the outward signs of arthritis and any obvious pain while moving; a full-body examination; and x-rays. Clinical signs are easy to interpret and are usually corroborated via x-rays. Diagnosing hip dysplasia is not a particularly difficult thing for a vet.
Often, breeders wish to ensure that the dogs they intend to use for breeding are not carriers of the condition. Vets check such dogs using one of the two deterministic techniques – Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or the PennHip method.
A vet will suggest a treatment option depending upon the animal’s age, size, and the extent to which the hip joint has devolved. A surgical procedure known as Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (TPO) is advised for young dogs whose hip muscles are fast losing tautness but they have not as yet shown signs of damage to the joints.
Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis is a procedure that is less invasive than TPO; this procedure has to be carried out before the pup reaches 20 weeks of age and hence early diagnosis is essential. This procedure can stave off arthritis which otherwise will invariably occur as a fallout of hip dysplasia.
Total hip replacement is often the best surgical option for dogs that have recurring hip dysplasia. The natural joints are removed and replaced with prosthetics. This is an elaborate procedure that is expensive as well but it gives excellent results.
Medical treatment of hip dysplasia focuses mainly on pain alleviation and slowing the growth of the condition. Since the condition is an inherited one, it is not possible to stop its progress through medicine. A good diet, exercise, pain killers, and anti-inflammation drugs help to give relief. Medical treatment for the condition is a popular alternative to surgery because of the high costs of surgical procedures.
One of the most important contributors to the success of any medical therapy or surgery is the dog’s weight. An overweight dog’s condition is difficult to treat. See that you give your dog plenty of low-impact exercises to keep its weight down; keep your dog away from exercises that can impact its joints. Consider giving the animal a cozy bed with orthopedic foam so that its weight is evenly distributed. A pet sweater will keep it warm. Cold tends to exacerbate the arthritic pain.
Massage, physical therapy, and diet plays a very important role in managing the condition. You can check with your pet’s vet about the best diet options and necessary nutrients that should be present in the animal’s food. For example – glucosamine and chondroitin are very beneficial compounds in the management of this condition.
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