What is Hip Dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia a common orthopedic developmental condition that impacts dogs. This is an inherited condition that is most typically seen large breed dogs, although it can occur in any breed. It can happen across breeds; current animal specialists aren't sure of what exactly causes the disorder. Rapid growth, genetics, improper nutrition, and poor muscle mass have all been associated with this condition. Impacted dogs may have normal hips and hip growth as a puppy, but overtime a lack of conformity will develop between their femur and acetabular cup and this results in arthritis and other complications.

Getting a Hip Dysplasia Diagnosis in Mauston

Hip dysplasia can develop overtime, this isn't a common emergency vet type of condition. It’s a painful condition with most puppies with the condition displaying that they have some sort of hip pain between the ages of 6 and 18 months. Such signs they are in pain may be refusing to jump up into a vehicle or a general lack of high energy play. Mature dogs over the age of three years old will display similar signs, but owners are more apt to notice an extreme change of personality. Other common signs of hip dysplasia include loss of thigh muscle mass, a swaying 'bunny hop' gait, and enlarged shoulder muscles (which occurs as the body compensates for a weakened rear end). 

Any time your pet has a personality change, such as from active to couch potato, it's important to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian near Wisconsin Dells. At a veterinary hospital, the veterinary team will first conduct a physical examination to determine if there is pain at the hips and, if so, it is in the right area of the hips to be hip dysplasia. Once that has been determined, your veterinarian near Wisconsin Dells will order additional x-rays to confirm the diagnosis and determine how far along it has progressed in your dog. 

Treatment Options for Hip Dysplasia

The treatment plans your veterinarian suggest will depend largely upon the unique conditions of your dog's breed and what the suspected reasons for the condition are. For severe situations in which hip dysplasia has progressed too far, then your veterinarian near Wisconsin Dells will most likely recommend some sort of surgical strategy to restore your pet's hips their proper position.

However, if hip dysplasia has been caught in time and your dog is still young, then your vet may suggest lifestyle changes for treatment. Depending upon your dog's unique case, your veterinary may suggest:

• Dietary plan to reduce weight and take stress from the hips
• Anti-inflammation medications
• Exercise restrictions
• Physical therapy

Contact Us to Learn More

For more information, or to schedule a vet visit, contact our Mauston team today.