First Coast Pet

Posts Tagged ‘pain’

Canine Hip dysplasia is the single most common cause of primary arthritis in dogs. Here we will examine the condition of hip dysplasia and the process leading to arthritis.

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint.Normal hip joints come together to make a smooth and snug fit between femur and pelvis.Dogs with hip dysplasia may have two different anatomical problems present.First, the ball and socket do not fit together snugly and second the ball or the socket are not shaped properly and smoothly. 

So why does this lead to arthritis?Hip dyplasia starts a cycle of destruction.The abnormal shape of the bones means that they will rub against each other, wear away the cartilage and produce inflammation.Inflammation causes further degradation of the cartilage.Cartilage regrowth may be too slow to stay ahead of cartilage damage.The rate of loss is faster than the rate of gain.The more damage caused to the protective cartilage the less able the joint is to protect itself therefore leading to even more damage.

How your dog developed  hip dysplasia has two possibilities.  It is  a genetic condition,  meaning a dog may be born with the problem.It is also possible that environmental conditions may contribute.  Injury or overexertion at a young age, while the joints are still developing.You wouldn’t want to take your three monthh old great dane on your daily jogs with you.  That repetitive motion on a young, forming joint is detrimental.

The symptoms of hip dysplasia all point to the reluctance to use the hip joint properly.Have you noticed that your dog is bunnyhopping instead of running or is reluctant to go up stairs or has even stopped jumping up to greet you.The unused muscles in the hip area may shrink or atrophy over time making the hip bones more prominent.

There is no cure for hip dysplasia.  The condition is controlled with weight control, proper exercise and arthritis medicine for dogs.  Medication can come in the form of nutritional supplements such as glucosamine for dogs or anti-inflammatory drugs obtained from your veterinarian.  In severe cases hip replacement surgery may be considered.

If you suspect arthritis you should talk to your vet right away so you can begin treatment as soon as possible.  With the proper management it is possible to slow down the arthritis and control the pain.Don’t forget arthritis can be caused by other factors.  You may notice symptoms of arthritis in your dog but it does not necessarily mean that it was caused by hip dysplasia.Arthritis may also be caused by an injury or even old age.  In any event, your arthritic dog may benefit greatly from supplementation to support the joints.