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 and Cassie has many from our own range such as the memory foam pet beds.

For more information see cats and dogs with dysplasia and arthritis.