Is your furry friend struggling to get up after napping? Hesitating before jumping into the car? These might be signs of hip dysplasia – a common but treatable condition that affects many dogs, especially larger breeds.
What Exactly Is Hip Dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia happens when your dog’s hip joint doesn’t fit together properly. Think of it as a ball and socket that don’t quite match up. This mismatch causes the joint to grind rather than glide, leading to pain and mobility issues over time.
While certain breeds like Labs, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers are more prone to hip dysplasia, any dog can develop this condition.
Spotting the Warning Signs
Keep an eye out for these telltale signs:
- Difficulty getting up from a lying position
- Reluctance to climb stairs or jump
- A strange “bunny hop” run where both back legs move together
- Less interest in walks or playtime
- Noticeable pain when you touch their hip area
- Muscle loss in their back legs
Diagnosis: Getting Answers
At East Hill Animal Hospital in Pensacola, our team uses one of the world’s most advanced high-definition CT imaging to get a clear picture of what’s happening in your dog’s hips. The sooner and more accurately we can diagnose the problem, the better we can manage it.
Treatment Options: From Conservative to Surgical
For mild cases, we might recommend:
- Weight management (extra pounds put more stress on those hips!)
- Physical therapy exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Joint supplements to support cartilage health
When these approaches aren’t enough, surgery might be the best way to give your dog the relief it needs.
Surgical Solutions Offered at East Hill Animal Hospital and the Canine Institute:
Total Hip Replacement (THR)
Think of this as the canine equivalent of human hip replacement surgery. We replace the damaged joint with an artificial one, dramatically improving mobility and eliminating pain. This option works best for larger dogs with severe dysplasia.
Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis (JPS)
For puppies under 5 months who show early signs or have a high genetic risk, this preventive procedure can alter how the pelvis grows to create more stable hip joints as they mature.
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO)
This surgery removes the ball portion of the hip joint, eliminating the painful bone-on-bone contact. It works particularly well for smaller dogs, creating a “false joint” that allows pain-free movement.
Recovery: Getting Back to Tail-Wagging Health
After surgery, our Canine Institute (located within East Hill Animal Hospital) provides comprehensive rehabilitation, including:
- Targeted physical therapy to rebuild strength
- Underwater treadmill sessions (easier on the joints!)
- Pain management techniques, including laser therapy
- Nutritional guidance to maintain healthy weight
Most dogs bounce back remarkably well and return to activities they previously avoided due to pain.
Why Choose East Hill Animal Hospital?
Our Pensacola team combines experienced veterinary surgeons with state-of-the-art equipment and personalized care plans. We understand that your dog isn’t just a pet – they’re family.
If your companion shows signs of hip discomfort, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Contact East Hill Animal Hospital today, and let’s help your best friend get back to living their best life – pain-free!