One of the common conditions affecting dogs, especially large breeds, is hip dysplasia.
It is caused by abnormal development or deformity in the hip joints as result of injury or genetics.
This condition is characterized by the loosening of muscles and connective tissue around the joint, leading to the separation of bones that used to be connected.
Arthritis occurs when the joint becomes inflamed and swells, leading to often unbearable pain in the part of the afflicted area.
Because there is no way for your dog to communicate effectively with its owner during the onset of hip dysplasia, debilitating osteoarthritis often occurs.
Consequently, pet owners should be vigilant in detecting symptoms and signs of hip dysplasia.
Owners should determine if their pet's breed is considered prone to this particular condition.
Among the breeds susceptible to developing hip dysplasia are Great Danes, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Saint Bernard and other large dogs.
Needless to say, genetics play a significant part in the development of this condition leading to arthritis and may be one major factor to consider for those who are thinking of getting a pet dog for themselves.
Other factors that play roles in the development of hip dysplasia are nutrition and obesity.
These factors may even cause the early onset of the disease among genetically-susceptible breeds.
The symptoms of osteoarthritis are not hard to determine, since they are similar with other symptoms displayed by other forms of arthritis in dogs.
These include limping, changes in the gait, reduction of movement, and even reluctance to get up from its lying position.
It would also help to observe any changes in the personality of the dog, as the pain caused by osteoarthritis can be manifested in increased aggression and sounds of pain.
Hip dysplasia is diagnosed by x-ray and by physical evaluation of the veterinarian.
An evaluation on the parentage and breeding of the animal might also be done.
Afterwards, the veterinarian may be able to suggest some treatment options suitable for the extent of hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis.
Often, surgery would be required to restore and strengthen the affected joint, especially if deterioration is pronounced.
To deal with the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis, veterinarians typically prescribe medications.
The medical management of osteoarthritis resulting from hip dysplasia can be varied.
Pain relievers are often administered, though owners should be vigilant for any type of adverse reactions in their pets.
With early detection and intervention, owners can help their pet dogs deal with dysplasia and achieve good overall health.
Though their pets might not go back to the original condition they were in, a little care and adequate medications would surely go a long way in increasing mobility and comfort of their pets.
One substance that is slowly gaining recognition as effective against canine arthritis is glucosamine.
Glucosamine not only helps reduce inflammation and pain, it also aids in replenishing the damaged components of the joint, particularly the cartilage.
It is caused by abnormal development or deformity in the hip joints as result of injury or genetics.
This condition is characterized by the loosening of muscles and connective tissue around the joint, leading to the separation of bones that used to be connected.
Arthritis occurs when the joint becomes inflamed and swells, leading to often unbearable pain in the part of the afflicted area.
Because there is no way for your dog to communicate effectively with its owner during the onset of hip dysplasia, debilitating osteoarthritis often occurs.
Consequently, pet owners should be vigilant in detecting symptoms and signs of hip dysplasia.
Owners should determine if their pet's breed is considered prone to this particular condition.
Among the breeds susceptible to developing hip dysplasia are Great Danes, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Saint Bernard and other large dogs.
Needless to say, genetics play a significant part in the development of this condition leading to arthritis and may be one major factor to consider for those who are thinking of getting a pet dog for themselves.
Other factors that play roles in the development of hip dysplasia are nutrition and obesity.
These factors may even cause the early onset of the disease among genetically-susceptible breeds.
The symptoms of osteoarthritis are not hard to determine, since they are similar with other symptoms displayed by other forms of arthritis in dogs.
These include limping, changes in the gait, reduction of movement, and even reluctance to get up from its lying position.
It would also help to observe any changes in the personality of the dog, as the pain caused by osteoarthritis can be manifested in increased aggression and sounds of pain.
Hip dysplasia is diagnosed by x-ray and by physical evaluation of the veterinarian.
An evaluation on the parentage and breeding of the animal might also be done.
Afterwards, the veterinarian may be able to suggest some treatment options suitable for the extent of hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis.
Often, surgery would be required to restore and strengthen the affected joint, especially if deterioration is pronounced.
To deal with the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis, veterinarians typically prescribe medications.
The medical management of osteoarthritis resulting from hip dysplasia can be varied.
Pain relievers are often administered, though owners should be vigilant for any type of adverse reactions in their pets.
With early detection and intervention, owners can help their pet dogs deal with dysplasia and achieve good overall health.
Though their pets might not go back to the original condition they were in, a little care and adequate medications would surely go a long way in increasing mobility and comfort of their pets.
One substance that is slowly gaining recognition as effective against canine arthritis is glucosamine.
Glucosamine not only helps reduce inflammation and pain, it also aids in replenishing the damaged components of the joint, particularly the cartilage.