Hip Dysplasia in Pets

This condition relates to the irregularity of hip joint leading to abnormal development in its ball and socket arrangement. The condition is more common in larger breeds of dogs and less in lighter, well muscled breeds.

Causes of Hip Dysplasia

• Abnormal weight bearing by hip joint in growing stage
• Over nutrition with high calorie diet
• Genetic predisposition
• Environmental factors
• Excessive growth
• Excessive exercise
• Loose joint or ligaments

Clinical Symptoms

• Lameness after extended exercise
• Wobbling or swaying gait
• Stiffness in the morning
• Difficulty in rising
• Gradual degeneration of the thigh muscles
• Change in temperament of the pet due to nagging pain
• Innocent eager look at the time of examination.

The diagnosis was only possible through X-ray.

Treatment of Hip Dysplasia

• The condition is difficult to cure but medical and surgical treatments are sometimes helpful in bringing fairly normal and comfortable life.
• Forced exercise must be discouraged in such animals.
• Analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs are quite effective in early stages.
• Promising improvements can be obtained by the use of phenylbutazone and cortisone preparations.
• In case of no response from these drugs, the only resort is surgical treatment which involves the removal of muscle or tendon to total hip replacement.
• The removal of the ball of the femur may set right the condition.
• Restriction of exercise in failing pets is beneficial.
• Swimming once a week can help to normalise the gait of pet.
• Use of joint supplements like Jollyflex which contains glucosamine and chondroitin may help to strengthen the joints and cartilages.

Prevention and Control

• Avoid over-feeding and fast growth of pups. 
• As a guide, growing pups should be given 15g protein, 0.7gm calcium and 30 IU of vitamin D per 1000 KJ of metabolizable energy. 
• Slow growth and late maturity of dogs minimize the chances of developing hip dysplasia.
• Occasional use of Vitamin C and E in the diet of pet is also beneficial.

Homeopathic Remedies

• Symphytum 200 (Morning), Ruta (Evening)
• Calcarea Phos 30 (Noon)

Once a day for 60 days