Page 40 - 3rd-quarter-2017

VET COLUMN

HIP DYSPLASIA

By Cris S. Pineda-Alcantara, DVM

Hip dysplasia in dogs is a condition that is more commonly seen in large breed dogs. Dysplasia means that the
joint and the head of the femur of the thigh bone have developed in such a way as to be less than perfect, that
they do not fit. So for example, in the case of hip dysplasia, the ball and socket that make up the hip joint are
not a perfect match. This can range from a slight wobble of the ball in the socket to no ball and no socket. Hip
dysplasia is a common causes of arthritis and lameness. Hip dysplasia is often found associated with large breeds
of dogs and starts at a few months of age.

Hip dysplasia is the malformation of the coxofemoral joints. It is a developmental defect initiated by a genetic
predisposition to subluxation of the immature hip joints. It creates abnormal forces across the joint. The weight
of the dog causes an overload on the joint and cartilage
causing small fractures and degenerative joint disease.
When your dog is observed to have difficulty getting up,
reluctant to run, jump or climb stairs, you should more
or less have an idea of the possibility of hip dysplasia. An
x-ray of the pelvic area will confirm to you whether or not
your dog is dysplastic.

The dysplastic patient might be given analgesics and
anti-inflammatory medicines, supplements for bone and
joint health but these will only ease the pain. Surgical
intervention is an option. The best way to prevent this
condition is to NOT breed affected dogs and to NOT
repeat breedings that has already produced one.

What to expect? Most patients will lead normal lives
with proper medical or surgical management, Expect
the degeneration of the joints to progress. and that the
likelihood of lifetime pain management will be needed.
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/hip-dysplasia-in-dogs

ttp://www.petdig.com/info/pet/hip-dysplasia/835/