Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a genetically determined disease that causes a malformation of
the hip joint. Faulty joint function leads to varying degrees of arthritis
(also called degenerative joint disease). Degenerative joint disease can
eventually result in considerable pain and debilitation in affected dogs. Hip
dysplasia is caused by multiple genes, but scientists do not yet know which
genes or exactly how many of them are involved.
No one can predict when or even if a dysplastic dog will start showing clinical
signs of lameness due to pain. Multiple environmental factors can worsen the
severity of clinical signs and speed deterioration in the hip joint, including
excess weight, accelerated growth rate, and high-calorie or improperly
supplemented diets.
Be alert for any stiffness in the dog's hindquarters, difficulty in getting up
or lying down, or yelping or whimpering when moving the rear. There appears to
be little correlation between the severity of radiographic changes (those seen
on an x-ray) and a dog's actual mobility and comfort level. Many dysplastic
dogs with extremely malformed hip joints and severe arthritis can run, jump, and
play as if nothing is wrong, yet other dogs who show very little joint
deterioration on film are noticeably lame.
By the time
osteoarthritis shows up on an x-ray, dysplastic changes are irreversible and
usually degenerative. If a dysplastic dog has secondary arthritis and pain,
most owners elect an initial treatment of weight control and exercise
management. Studies have shown that up to 76 percent of severely dysplastic dogs with
arthritis secondary to
HD are able to function relatively normally and live
comfortable lives with conservative management.
Numerous drugs and alternative drug therapies known as "disease-modifying
osteoarthritis agents" are available to control the signs of arthritis secondary
to
HD. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and glucosamine
supplements are among the most popular interventions. Several surgical
procedures are currently available to help certain categories of affected dogs.
An orthopedic specialist can help determine whether surgery is a good option
for your dog. Prior to initiating any therapy, make sure that your veterinarian
gathers a complete medical history and performs a thorough physical examination
to help determine the best treatment for your dog.
Because hip dysplasia is relatively common in malamutes, responsible breeders
screen dogs for this disorder before using them in their breeding programs.
The
Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) evaluates x-rays and assigns a
rating and clearance number to dogs two years and older with normal hip
conformation. When inquiring about purchasing a puppy in the United States,
expect the breeder to produce clearance certificates issued by the OFA for both
parents. Another legitimate certifying body is
Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program (PennHip), but this program is
relatively new. At this time, most malamute breeders still use OFA.
Adapted
from the OFA and
PennHIP web sites. |
