Canine hip dysplasia, or CHD, is the most common cause of arthritis in the hips of dogs. It is most common in large breeds, and it can be caused by either genetic or environmental factors. The condition can also be seen in cats occasionally, and it affects the pet’s hind legs.
How Hip Dysplasia Affects Your Pet
In many cases, hip dysplasia is the result of excessive wear and tear of the hip’s joints. When pets are overweight, their weight can encourage the condition to develop as well. The joints will become inflamed and damaged making it difficult for them to recover on their own. This inflammation can cause further damage resulting in pet osteoarthritis and CHD. Over time, the joints may become deformed. However, in some cases, they may appear perfectly normal. In either case though, the condition will cause pain in the animal and will affect its normal movement.
Common Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia
There are many signs and symptoms of hip dysplasia on dogs, and if you recognize them and seek treatment immediately, the prognosis for your pet is excellent. However, it is essential to note that your pet may only show one or two CHD symptoms while another pet may exhibit several. Common CHD Symptoms in Pets: Limping on One or Both Legs, Unable to Get Up After Lying Down, Unable to Sit Comfortably, Sitting With Rear Legs Pushed to the Side, Hopping Instead of Running, Dragging a Leg While Walking and Unable to Navigate Stairs.
Treatments for Hip Dysplasia
If your pet only has a mild case of hip dysplasia, a special diet may be all that is required to help its condition. Light exercise, therapeutic baths, swimming and massage can also help with joint health. Other things that may be beneficial include heating pads and raised food dishes. Additionally, various Nutraceuticals may be prescribed to help alleviate pain and inflammation. In severe cases, as determined by an x-ray, total hip replacement surgery may be required. Supplementing your pet’s diet can help to cushion and lubricate the joints as well. Typically, Glucosamine is recommended to help fight off arthritis and hip dysplasia. Other substances that can help with joint health include MSM, Manganese, Omega-3 fatty acids, Chondroitin and Hyaluronic acid.
Breeds Affected
As stated above, hip dysplasia is most commonly seen in large breed canines. However, it can occasionally occur in small breeds and even cats. Some of the most common canine breeds affected by the condition are as follows. Common Breeds Affected by Hip Dysplasia: German Shepherds, Newfoundlands, Rottweilers, Mastiffs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Spaniels and Pugs.
Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
