Article From SubmitYOURArticle.com: Treating Canine Hip Dysplasia

Canine hip dysplasia is closely related to
arthritis and commonly effects dogs through their
genetics. Hip dysplasia is often hard to prevent
and treat since it is passed on to the dog
genetically. Larger dog breeds, such as German
shepherds, are most often commonly diagnosed with
having this condition. During later stages of hip
dysplasia, many dogs experience debilitating
arthritis. The arthritis is caused by a disease
that effects the joints and damages the cartilage
in these areas. Hip dysplasia is not the same as
hip arthritis, however, it causes it. In this
condition, the hip and ball joint do not fit
together well and may cause the dog painful
symptoms.

Many younger puppies may show signs of having hip
dysplasia. For these dogs, surgical procedures
can be done to realign the hip joints. Most
canines will not show symptoms until they are
completely severe and are literally crippling to
the dog. When this stage hits, the options for
treatment are limited. Because canine hip
dysplasia is passed on genetically, it is vitally
important to do your research on breeders before
adopting a puppy. This condition can not only be
painful to the dog, but will also cause emotional
pain for the dog's owner.

As stated before, this condition is most often
found in larger breeds, however, it can also be
found in some of the smaller ones as well. One
such smaller dog breed is the cocker spaniel.
Some mixed breeds may also be effected by hip
dysplasia. Allowing your dog to have regular vet
checkups will help you keep your dog's health in
check and to identify any abnormal changes in
personality and disposition.

Some of the most common signs that your dog has
hip dysplasia are limping, difficulty raising
their leg, inability to use stairs, less energy,
lethargy, and whimpering after exercise. If your
dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms, be sure
to take him or her to the vet for a checkup. Your
vet will be able to diagnose hip dysplasia after
a physical examination of the dog and x-rays.
Different forms of x-rays will be able to
diagnose the condition better and will help to
see how severe the cartilage damage is.

Many veterinarians will recommend a total hip
replacement if your dog is suffering from this
condition. This treatment option often takes care
of hip dysplasia completely and is the most
commonly used treatment method. Another treatment
option would be physical therapy and exercise.
These methods are most often used in cases where
the hip dysplasia is not severe. Many people may
also choose this treatment option if price is a
problem, since surgical procedures will be
thousands of dollars. If you are aware that your
dog has come from a breeder that has dogs with
canine hip dysplasia, you may want to get your
dog checked regularly by a veterinarian.

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http://www.cactuscanyon.com/dog-arthritis/

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