Caring for a Dog With Hip Dysplasia

Did you know that as many as percent of dogs will get hip dysplasia at some point in their lives? While some breeds, such as German Shepherds, are more prone to it than others, any pooch can get hip dysplasia. A Hudson Valley, NY vet offers some advice on caring for Fido in this article.

Suitable Exercise

You don’t want to overexert a dog with hip dysplasia, but you shouldn’t let Fido become a complete couch potato, either. If your pet doesn’t get enough exercise, his muscles will start to atrophy, and he’ll get stiff and weak. Most dogs need at least a daily walk. Swimming is another good option, assuming your pet likes it. The water will support your dog’s weight, giving him a great no-impact workout. Don’t encourage your pet to jump or stand on his back legs: this will just aggravate his condition.

Supplements

Supplements can definitely make a difference here. If your furry best bud has hip dysplasia, he may benefit from taking glucosamine, Omega 3 or 6 oils, and other nutrients. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Veterinary Care

Veterinary medicine has come a long way in recent years. There are now many options for helping Fido cope with his pain, including medicine and surgery. Alternative therapies, such as homeopathic medicine and even massage, can also be beneficial. Of course, no one method is going to be right for all of our canine buddies. Your vet will be able to discuss treatment options once your pooch has been thoroughly examined and diagnosed.

Starting Early

If your pet is a large dog, or is of a breed that is prone to this condition, keep a close eye out for early warning signs. Some common ones include limping, stiffness, and reduced interest in play. Call your vet as soon as you notice anything amiss. The sooner an issue is caught and treated, the better!

Bedding

Making sure Fido has a good, comfy bed is also important. We recommend getting your pooch an orthopedic doggy bed. Keep in mind that dogs with hip dysplasia often get quite stiff and sore when it’s cold and/or wet. You may want to offer your four-legged friend a heated towel or rice sock to curl up with on chilly days.

As your Hudson Valley, NY veterinary clinic, we’re always happy to help. Contact us anytime!