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Canine hip dysplasia and arthritis
Treatment for canine hip dysplasia and arthritis
After x rays showed that our own dog Cassie (6-7 years old) has hip dysplasia and will eventually get arthritis on those joints, I did some research on the internet.
I found that hip dysplasia is hereditary and dogs who have it will walk with a slight waddle and bunny hop when they run. You may also hear a clicking sound when your dog walks. If you suspect your dog has hip dysplasia seek veterinary advice to get a diagnosis.
Your dogs weight will need to be controlled to help ease pressure on painful joints. A low calorie, low calcium and low protein diet is best for pets with hip dysplasia. Cassie is currently on hills prescription j/d diet which we have to soak as she doesn't like dry food. So its soaked and then mashed.
To ease any pain the vet prescribed metacam, an anti-inflammatory or NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). However, I found that after long term use it can cause stomach problems in pets, so I have switched to a more natural product called Devils Claw which is given in her food whenever she shows signs of any pain along with Synoquin which is a supplement containing glucosamine and chondroitin which maintains healthy cartilage around your dogs hip joints.
With regards to exercise I tend to let Cassie tell me when shes had enough, although the vet advised 2-3 small walks a day each about 10-15 minutes.
Swimming pool hydrotherapy has become very popular with pet owners as a low impact exercise that will build muscles. Not all pets enjoy it and whether your pet will take to it depends on each individual animal.
Comfortable bedding is also a good idea for painful joints.
Update on Cassie: She is now 9 years old and I have switched her diet to raw minced bone and meat plus plenty of green leafy vegetables and broccoli which is blitzed in a food processor. She still gets a glucosamine and chondroitin tablet but I also add half a teaspoon of turmeric to her food every other day.
She is very lively and loves playing with her toys.
