Treatment Options and Veterinary Care for Dog Hip Dysplasia

Noticing your dog limping or having difficulty moving can be a scary scene for pet owners. A common reason your dog might be limping or having lameness is hip dysplasia. This condition can significantly impact your dog’s mobility and quality of life. TLC Animal Hospital in El Paso, TX, offers quality care, attention, and treatment for your dog’s hip dysplasia. We are here to tell you more about hip dysplasia in dogs and how our veterinarian can treat it.

What Is Hip Dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a skeletal condition typically seen in larger breeds of dogs, but the condition can also occur in smaller dog breeds. Hip dysplasia causes your dog’s hip joints to not function properly, causing the joints to rub and grind. This rubbing and grinding causes joint deterioration over time and eventual loss of function.

Several health issues can cause hip dysplasia, but genetics is one of the most frequent causes. Commonly affected dog breeds include German shepherds, Saint Bernard, Labrador retrievers, Newfoundland, Great Danes, and Old English Sheepdogs.

Signs of Hip Dysplasia

Symptoms of hip dysplasia can manifest at any age and include:

•             Your dog may be less active.

•             Your dog may be reluctant to climb steps or stairs.

•             Your dog has difficulty jumping or standing up.

•             Your dog may exhibit limping instead of a smooth stride.

•             Your dog may rely more on its front legs to move around.

•             Loss of muscle mass in the rear limbs is evident.

•             Your dog has noticeable hip pain.

Hip dysplasia in dogs can sometimes go undetected, though. Dogs tend to be stoic and hide symptoms of pain or discomfort. An exam from your veterinarian is the best way to catch hip dysplasia in your dog.

How Is Hip Dysplasia Diagnosed and Treated?

Your veterinarian will take X-rays to help diagnose your dog’s condition and determine the severity of its hip dysplasia. They can then devise a treatment plan depending on your dog’s age and lifestyle. Young dogs may have the option of juvenile pubic symphysiodesis, total hip replacement, or double or triple pelvic osteotomy. Your veterinarian may recommend a femoral head ostectomy for older dogs.

Contact Your Veterinarian Near You in El Paso, TX, for Hip Dysplasia Treatment

Getting your dog veterinary care for its hip dysplasia can significantly increase its health and quality of life, so contact TLC Animal Hospital in El Paso, TX, to keep your dog happy and healthy. We understand your dog’s health is a top priority as a pet owner, so call us and schedule an appointment today at (915) 592-6200.