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Dogs
are made to move. Their bones and muscles were designed
to allow for flexibility, agility and endurance.
When a canine's natural movements are impeded by
a bone disorder-as with hip dysplasia-this can mean
pain for the animal. Serious cases may require medication
or surgical correction.
Canine Hip Dysplasia: An Inherited Condition
An
inherited defect, hip dysplasia signals an improperly
formed hip joint. Because the joint doesn't fit
together as snugly as it should, a dog's leg bone
will move around too much in its socket. This results
in irritation, scarring, pain and lameness in one
or both hind legs and, sometimes, arthritis. Hip
dysplasia commonly affects larger breeds of dogs,
including German shepherds, rottweilers and retrievers,
and it can develop when your pet is a puppy and
worsen as he gets older. Dogs suffering from hip
dysplasia should not be bred.
Caring for a Dog with Hip Dysplasia
There
are various things you can do to make your pet as
comfortable as possible. Dogs with hip dysplasia
often have a hard time navigating slippery floors,
so be sure to provide lots of traction for your
pet. Use carpeting on slick surfaces. And if he
needs to climb any stairs or hop into a car or truck,
a carpeted ramp will make it all the more easier.
If your pet usually sleeps outdoors, bring him in
if the weather's chilly and damp.
To
take away the ache from your animal companion's
sore hips, ANIMED recommends that you apply a
hot water bottle for about 10 to 15 minutes twice
daily. You can also massage the muscles around his
hip joints. Use very gentle pressure and rub in
a circular motion with your fingertips or palm.
Ten minutes should be tops, but do stop if your
dog seems in any way uncomfortable. Buffered aspirin
will take the pain away, too, but check with your
veterinarian for correct dosage.
Exercise Helps Dog Hip Displasia
Dogs
with hip dysplasia benefit from at least two 20-minute
walks a day. Keep going if your dog can easily handle
a longer session-but let him set the pace. Swimming
will do wonders for the muscles around your dog's
joints, all without a lot of wear and tear. It's
best to avoid jumping or prolonged running.
If
your dog's hind legs seem sore and stiff, and if
he has trouble getting going in the morning, talk
to your vet about the possibility of hip dysplasia.
And always think prevention. Excess poundage can
put extra stress on hip joints, so get your overweight
pet on a diet-especially if he's a large breed and
still a puppy. Ask your veterinarian for a sensible,
effective program.
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