Hip Dysplasia can be a difficult diagnosis for any pet parent to hear. It is a condition that affects the hip joint, causing pain and decreased mobility. It can be debilitating for a pet and can have a significant impact on the dog’s quality of life. While it is not always possible to prevent Hip Dysplasia, the condition can be managed with proper treatment. With the right care, a dog can continue to lead a healthy and happy life. In this blog post, we will explore the options available to pet parents of dogs with Hip Dysplasia, so they can make an informed decision about how to best care for their beloved pup. We will discuss the signs and symptoms of Hip Dysplasia, how it can be treated, and answer the important question; can a dog live with Hip Dysplasia?
Early Signs Of Hip Dysplasia In Dogs
It’s critical to recognize the early symptoms of canine hip dysplasia because early diagnosis is crucial.
Your dog will benefit from treatment more quickly if you can pinpoint the source of their discomfort.
Since your dog won’t be able to communicate their pain to you, they can only demonstrate it to you, all dog owners should be aware of the main symptoms of canine hip dysplasia. As a dog owner, your task is to play detective and watch out for the warning signs.
These are all signs of canine hip dysplasia that are typically present in dogs.
Depending on the dog’s age and the severity of their condition, your pup may need surgery.
Your vet will provide you with the appropriate guidance regarding their health and age, but be ready for the possibility of surgery.
The majority of canine hip dysplasia surgeries can cost anywhere from $1500 to $4500+, depending on the procedure and your veterinarian’s area of expertise.
Younger dogs may benefit most from surgery in terms of quality of life, but an older dog may not benefit as much from surgery and recovery. Older dogs are more susceptible to complications from surgery and anesthesia, so it might not be worth the risk.
The following medical procedures are currently used to treat canine hip dysplasia:
Juvenile public symphysoidesis (JSP)
This inexpensive, minimally invasive preventative procedure is carried out on young dogs who are at risk of developing CHD linked to arthritis.
Results on both hips are reportedly excellent, and complications are extremely uncommon.
Fermoral Head Ostectogy (FHO)
FHO, or femoral head ostectomy, is a surgical procedure that removes the head and neck of the femur (the long leg bone or thighbone), with the goal of restoring pain-free mobility to a sick or damaged hip.
In this procedure, a fibrous joint is used to replace the femur’s tip. The majority of the pain caused by this canine hip dysplasia surgery is alleviated, but the dog’s mobility and range of motion are typically not fully restored.
Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (TPO)
Moderate- to large-breed dogs with early-stage clinical hip dysplasia (HD) undergo this procedure. The procedure aims to normalize hip joint stresses, reduce coxofemoral joint laxity, and enhance hip congruity.
Total Hip Replacement (THP)
Total hip replacement surgery is the most successful treatment for canine hip dysplasia.
Only fully grown dogs with severe hip dysplasia or osteoarthritis are candidates for this procedure.
The good news is that dogs who undergo a THP typically recover fully and lead pain-free lives. Now that’s something to wag your tail about!.
For instance, if your dog lives 10 years and starts showing symptoms at age 2, you might end up spending between $4,800 and $19,200 on medications to treat the condition:
To determine the best options for your pet, consult a board-certified veterinary surgeon or your primary care veterinarian.
The most frequent procedures are femoral head osteotomies and total hip replacements for adult dogs with skeletal maturity who also suffer from increased joint pain and restricted mobility.
Any dog with joint pain, whether treated surgically or medically, should be kept at a healthy weight. Maintaining your dog’s ideal weight will prevent excess weight from being placed on the joints.
The dog’s hip cartilage and bone start to deteriorate as it grows. Over time, this causes arthritis, muscle atrophy, and limited mobility.
Which Dogs Are Proneto Hip Dysplasia?
Larger dogs, such as bulldogs, mastiffs, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, American Staffordshire terriers, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and St. Bernards, and Rottweilers.
But all breeds and sizes of dogs, including some small breeds like pugs and French bulldogs, are prone to this inherited condition.
In other instances, dogs experience issues later in life as a result of osteoarthritis or joint inflammation (also known as arthritis).
FAQ
Can a dog live with hip dysplasia without surgery?
Treating canine hip dysplasia without surgery is possible. By limiting their exercise routine, assisting them in maintaining a healthy weight to lessen strain on their joints, and making an investment in high-quality bedding, you can help your dog feel more comfortable while taking medication to reduce pain and inflammation.
What happens if hip dysplasia is left untreated in dogs?
Hip dysplasia in dogs frequently progresses to osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease) if untreated. Dogs with hip dysplasia frequently exhibit lameness, pain, and muscle atrophy in their hind limbs.
Should a dog with severe hip dysplasia be put down?
As your dog ages, it may get worse as their painful, inflamed hip joints restrict their mobility. Consider humane euthanasia seriously if your dog is in the advanced stages of hip dysplasia and suffering from even the smallest movements.
How long do dogs with hip dysplasia last?
Even if your beloved dog has been diagnosed with hip dysplasia, you can still anticipate spending a lot of happy years with them. Dogs with the condition can live comfortably well into old age. If your dog is older than seven years old, they may require more care as they age. Learn more about taking care of an older dog here.