Hip dysplasia in dogs is a genetic disease that causes significant pain and loss of mobility.

If you've noticed that your dog seems to have trouble moving around, is walking stiffly, or is bunny-hopping, this might indicate canine hip dysplasia. Bring your dog to Animal Care Center of Castle Pines for diagnosis. Our veterinarians will perform a physical examination of the joints and take x-rays to determine whether your dog suffers from hip dysplasia. Proper treatment will mitigate most symptoms and help your dog live a normal life.

What Is Hip Dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition that can occur in one or both hip joints. This genetic disease affects the formation of the hip joint, causing a "loose" or partially dislocated joint. Because the hip socket is too shallow and the hip ligament is weak, the bones do not fit together snugly as they should. Instead, they slide around, grinding and scraping against each other. Hip dysplasia causes painful bone degeneration and joint deterioration, and walking will become more and more difficult for your dog over time.

Canine hip dysplasia can affect dogs of any size, age, or breed. The condition starts in puppies as early as five months old and grows worse as the dog ages. Diagnosis at a young age will help to prevent complications later in life. Growth spurts and weight gain can both aggravate hip dysplasia symptoms. Other conditions, such as osteoarthritis, can complicate hip dysplasia in older dogs. Because canine hip dysplasia is a hereditary disease, there is no cure. However, consistent treatment will help to minimize the symptoms.

How Can I Help Treat My Dog's Hip Dysplasia?

Weight Management

Extra weight to carry means extra pressure on the joint and increased pain. Help your dog maintain a healthy weight with regular exercise. Walking and jogging can help strengthen the ligaments and muscles in the hips and prevent joint degeneration. Make sure your dog gets daily exercise, but avoid going for outdoor walks in damp, chilly weather. Always let your dog move at their own pace, no matter how slow.

Comfort and Accesibility

Comfort is key! Make sure that your dog has easy access to soft beds. Warm, dry, well-cushioned sleeping arrangements relieve pressure on the joints and help alleviate pain. Place rugs or mats to provide traction on slippery floors and make it easier for your dog to get around the house. If your dog sleeps on your bed or on the couch, carpeted stairs will help your pet access those higher surfaces without the pain of jumping.

Massage Therapy

Gently massaging the muscles around the joint can help to ease the pain. Your vet can show you the right technique. Applying a hot water bottle or heating pad to the joint for 15 minutes each day can help as well. Always gauge your dog's response-do not use massage or heat therapy if your dog reacts with pain.

How Do We Treat Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?

Dietary Consultation

Animal Care Center of Castle Pines offers diet consultation services to ensure your dog eats the best food for optimum health. Diet is very important for dogs that have hip dysplasia, as sudden weight gain can make the condition worse. Puppies that will grow into large dogs need a special diet to help regulate their growth. Older dogs need a special diet that will help keep their joints lubricated and inhibit weight gain. Our veterinary experts will recommend the best diet for your dog's unique needs.

Medication

Depending on the severity of the condition, our veterinarians might prescribe medication for pain management. Medications can treat inflammation, reduce swelling, and relieve pain. Never administer over-the-counter medicines such as aspirin or CBD unless prescribed by your vet. Only a veterinarian will know the right type of medication and the appropriate dosage for your dog. Our pharmacy is open during regular business hours, including Saturdays. We always do our best to fill prescriptions within 24 hours, to make sure that your pet gets the medicine they need as soon as possible.

Regenerative Therapy

Animal Care Center of Castle Pines offers several types of regenerative therapy to treat hip dysplasia in dogs. The most effective treatments are stem cell therapy, PRP, and ESWT. Stem cell therapy involves injecting stem cells directly into the joint to achieve long-term systemic benefits. Stem cell therapy can reduce dependence on medications and is a good alternative for dogs with allergies. Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy (PRP) accelerates internal healing through platelet injections at the joint. Shockwave therapy (ESWT) uses high-intensity sound waves to reverse inflammation and stimulate the growth of the blood vessels that assist in healing body tissues.

Contact Us

If you have noticed any signs of hip dysplasia in your dog, contact Animal Care Center of Castle Pines to schedule an examination. We offer comprehensive medical care and diagnostics, advanced pain management, surgery, rehabilitation, and many other important services to ensure your pet's health and wellness. Call us at (303) 688-3660 or visit our website to schedule an appointment today. With the right care and treatment for hip dysplasia, your dog can live a happy life, free from pain.