Santa Cruz Pugs Hip Displaysia Page

Hip Displaysia in dogs refers to improper growth and abnormal formation of the hip structure which includes muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and the joint capsule that holds the hip socket and ball of the femur together. HD originates in puppy-hood when the skeleton grows more rapidly than the supporting soft tissue. It results in unstable hip joints. As dogs age, osteoarthritis usually ensues as the abnormal use of the joints cause cartilage erosion. Osteoarthritis is sometimes described as 'wear and tear' arthritis, that is, it is caused by gradual destruction of joint cartilage over time. In dogs with HD, the condition usually affects both hips. It ranges from very mild with no symptoms to severe, painful, and crippling.
<Source: The Veterinarians' Guide to Natural Remedies for Dogs by Martin Zucker>

Signs of Hip Displaysia:
            Limping
            Hind leg lameness
            Wobbly or swaying gait
            Difficulty upon rising (particularly in the morning)
            Resistance to walk up stairs or run and jump as normal
            Bunny hopping
**Note: If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it does not always mean hip displaysia is the cause. There may be an injury to the area, a cut on the paw, or simply 'pins & needles.' A lot of running one day can result in sore muscles the next, and a dog may be slower due to muscle strain. Examine the dogs paws to rule out an external injury such as a piece of glass he may have stepped on.

Diagnosis
The only way to diagnose HD is through an x-ray. Just looking at a dog who exhibits the signs is not an accurate diagnosis. Likewise, a dog who is not exhibiting any signs cannot be cleared as not having HD without an x-ray. Only a Veterinarian can diagnose Hip Displaysia.

Cause
The popular belief has been that HD is a hereditary condition, however newer thinking indicates that is it 50-80% related to nutritional factors. Nonetheless, heredity definitely plays at least a secondary role since the feeding regimen of the mother determines the quality of nutrition supplied to the pups during pregnancy and through the milk after birth; and when the pups are started on solid food, often the same food is given to mother and pups. If hip abnormalities start to develop, ideally, the ligaments and cartilage should respond by building back up in the weakened areas (much like human muscles will build up in response to weight lifting). In dogs fed a high quality diet, the cartilage around the hip area has the proper building blocks to respond to such disadvantages. A dog who is fed commercial quality pet foods that are deplete of nutrients and filled with preservatives, artificial color and flavor, MSG and other additives, will usually not have a body that is able to repair itself easily; and may even contribute to a quicker deterioration of this and any other condition. It's like raising a child on a diet of candy and sweets - the body is left in such a weakened state that illnesses occur more frequently and the immune system loses its responsiveness.

Total Hip Replacement
Procedure: both the ball and socket of the hip joint are replaced with prosthetic implants made from a cobalt-chromium metal allow and the new socket from high density polyethylene plastic. Special bone cement is used to hold these implants in place.
Results from surgery: dog will return to pain-free, mechanically sound normal hip function. Increase in muscle mass, improved hip motion and activity levels. Dogs will be able to move and jump in ways they couldn't before. Quality of life is generally improved.
Success rate: Over 95% of dogs experience favorable results with this procedure.
Best for: Large breed dogs over 30 pounds
Cost of procedure: Approx $4,000.00 per hip (check with individual veterinarians for their fee).

Femoral Head Ostectomy
Procedure: The head (or ball) of the femur is removed. The remaining part of the femur forms a false joint with the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the area.
Results from surgery: A significant reduction in pain.
Success rate: Compared to the other types of surgery this one is much more basic, yet many pets that have this surgery return to almost normal function.
Best for: Almost any sized dog can have this procedure even though it is much more effective in smaller dogs. Obese dogs and those with significant loss of muscle do not do as well.
Cost of Procedure: Approx. $1700.00 per hip (check with individual veterinarians for their fee).

Triple Pelvic Osteotomy
Procedure: The pelvic bone is cut in three places, and re-shaped to form a "hood" over the femoral head, preventing it from luxating out of place
Results:
Success rate:
Best for: dogs between six and ten months of age while bones are still forming
Cost of procedure: Approx. $1200.00 per hip (check with individual veterinarians for their fee).

Non-surgical treatments

Massage: Clinical studies have concluded that pets experience reduced pain, greater flexibility and increased circulation of both lymph and blood systems. Massaging your pet stimulates the release of cytokines that in turn reduce the levels of stress hormones. Improved blood circulation provides additional oxygen to their body and the brain is producing all-natural pain relievers called endorphins. Be cautious around areas that are bruised or inflamed. If your pet exhibits a reaction from being touched in a certain area, discontinue massage in that area. For pets with arthritis, flexibility is an issue. The more sedentary your pet is the greater the chance that flexibility is lost. As part of your massage therapy, you should also add some stretching.
Recommended video ~ click on link to order or read more about it.
BODYWORK FOR DOGS: CONNECTING THROUGH MASSAGE, ACUPRESSURE AND INTUITIVE TOUCH VIDEO
**note: I purchased this video and love it! Highly recommended!

T-Touch: TTOUCH is a training and health care system developed by internationally known animal expert, Linda Tellington - Jones. Based on cooperation and understanding, these revolutionary techniques promote optimal performance and health without fear or force. Helps with behavioral issues, pain from arthritis or hip-displaysia, pain after surgery, and helps to calm animals.
*Jodi Frediani is a TTouch Practitioner III, located in Bonny Doon. She is available for private sessions and clinics. Her practice includes dogs, cats, horses, exotics and their people. To get on her mailing list or for more information about any of the above, phone: (83) 426-1697or email: JodiFredi@aol.com
Read more about Linda's books:
GETTING IN TTOUCH WITH YOUR DOG
TELLINGTON TTOUCH, REVOLUTIONARY NATURAL METHOD TO TRAIN & CARE FOR YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL

Magnet Therapy: Click here for an explanatory article about how Magnet Therapy works

Weight maintenance: Any dog with hip dysplasia should be kept fit and trim as any excess weight will obviously aggravate the condition, but good muscle tone will help to support the dog's weight. Many dysplastic dogs are overweight, so a reducing diet is in order if the dog's weight is causing undue pressure on his hips. Enforced rest is the simplest therapy for short-term relief.

Swimming: Swimming is excellent for hip displaysia because it strengthens the muscles around the hip without causing stress to the joints as in running or walking. It involves the use of almost all of the muscles in the body. Also, because water resistance is greater than air resistance, the muscles have to work harder, thereby making it a better strengthening method.

Accupuncture: Accupuncture is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced "chee"), which means "energy," and its effect on how well the body functions. Accupuncture needles stimulate sensory nerve endings that send impulses up through the spinal cord to the different areas of the brain. by stimulating these points, accupunturicts seek to restore normal energy flow and in the process stimulate the body's ability to heal itself. Accupuncture also releives muscle spasm and increases circulation, and it causes release of different neurotransmitters and hormones throughout the body. Accupuncture is not painful and most pets are able to sit quietly and relax during a session. Some pets become so acclimated to treatments adn so releived by the effects that they often fall asleep after the first few visits. Accupuncture is useful for pain relief, arthritis, lameness, disc disorders, neurological problems, epilepsy, gastrointestinal disorders, post surgical healing, and immune system boosting.
<Source: The Veterinarians' Guide to Natural Remedies for Dogs by Martin Zucker>
To Search for a Veterinary Accupuncturist near you, click on the Directory Link here: http://aava.org/

VOM: Stands for Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation. Has had wonderful results with Hip Displaysia.
Click here for an Article

A note about exercise: Many people over-exercise young puppies, or give them the wrong type of exercise. The wrong type of exercise can include forced running for any distance and too much exercise on cement or other hard surfaces. Up to at least six months of age, exercise on hard surfaces should be kept at a minimum. Correct exercise for puppies includes running and playing in the garden or in a park, although games that involve jumping and very rough play should be avoided, and the puppy should be allowed to rest as soon as he has had enough and must not "over-do" it. Though it seems reasonable that dogs with hip displaysia should be exercised more to build up muscle and take weight off, not all exercise is best for Hip Displaysia

Prescription Medications
Prescription medications are used for pain control only, they do nothing to improve this condition. NSAIDS stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. They are sometimes prescribed for this condition - your veterinarian will review the associated risks with you. NSAIDS such as aspirin, naproxen, adequan, and cosequin have been proven effective in many cases. A dose of aspirin or other drug is often helpful before a bout of exercise. However, since aspirin is not tolerated by some dogs and can cause internal bleeding, and determining proper doses of naproxen can be difficult, doses should be prescribed by a veterinarian who has examined the dog, not by the dog owner. Some dogs respond well to phenylbutazone, but this drug can suppress bone marrow formation. Corticosteroids should not be used to treat arthritis because they have adverse effects on cartilage and other unacceptable side effects. The four most commonly reported clinical signs are vomiting, anorexia, depression, and diarrhea. Further down the list of adverse events are gastric ulceration, intestinal ulceration, renal failure, hepatic failure, and death.
More info about NSAIDS: Article 1 Article 2
*Never give your dog any medication that has not been specifically prescribed for that dog. Dosage amount varies by weight of dog. Do not give any over-the-counter aspirin or related products before first checking with your veterinarian. Most vets will be happy to answer questions free on the telephone.

Supplements
There are many products and supplements helpful for this condition. Some offer only pain relief - others claim to help restore ligaments and cartilage. Most of these can be used safely alongside other therapies. Below is a table with some information I found through research. I cannot guarantee the effectiveness of any of the remedies listed here, as what will work on one dog may not work for another. Additionally the severity and duration of the condition is a factor. As with anything, use your best judgment. Links are provided which contain further information on each product and method for ordering. In some cases, manufacturers have offered special discounts for ordering through this website.

Supplement Name	What is it?	Known for	Products and ordering info	Comments
Cosequin DS (double strength) This double strength formulation is intended for dogs 25 lbs and over.	High quality Glucosamine and condroitin supplement	This one is highly recommended by Veterinarians.		Has been shown to improve joint health and some refer to them as "joint lubricants". This double strength formulation is intended for larger dogs 25 lbs and over.
Dismutase	A powerful antioxidant supplement made by Bio Vet International (www.biotecfoods.com)	Helping functionality of joints and relief for pain. Restorative qualities. Highest quality ingredients.	ORDER HERE: www.petwafer.com	This product is highly effective when coupled with accupuncture, however even if accupunture isn't feasable, Dismutase by itself is still very effective.
Glucosamine	an amino sugar produced from the shells of chitin (shellfish)	Joint function and repair. Slows the progression of arthritis. `Eases osteoarthritis pain and helps to rehabilitate damaged cartilage, reduce inflammation and improve mobility.`	Synflex Click on the bottle of Syn-flex to go directly to the product page here to order or read about this amazing product: Synflex for Pets	Syn-Flex brand uses pharmaceutical grade glucosamine and is a top seller for both people and dogs. Made by Active X America
Winstons Joint Formula	A combination of three, totally-natural whole food supplements developed by a Naturopathic Doctor for his own dog. This is an excellent product with hundreds of testimonials!	Provides many of the raw materials essential for the synthesis of the joint-lubricating synovial fluid as well as articular cartilage and connective tissue. Included with their collagen compound and natural anti-inflammatory compound, it will also relieve the pain of arthritis. *This company has a list of hundreds of testimonials for this product!	Click on the coupon below to order and get $5 off your purchase!	There are more great products by this company. Click on blue box to see more.
Mega-C Plus	A high quality vitamin/mineral compound using vitamin C ascorbate (non-acid).	Will enhance immune function and aid in the synthesis of collagen. Prevents puppies from having HD when given to female during pregnancy. Mega-C 'drops' formula available to give puppies starting at birth to prevent HD.	Order and read more about Mega-C here	Dr. Wendell Belfield, DVM has several other veterinary products on his website. For more information about Dr. Belfield and his complete line of products, please visit the Belfield Pet Food Research Center at http://www.belfield.com
MSM	MSM stands for methylsulfonylmethane, which is a naturally occurring, organic, sulfur containing compound related to another sulfur-containing substance, dimethyl sulfoxide. Studies have reported that joints affected by osteoarthritis have lower sulfur content, and mice with arthritis given MSM, experience less joint deterioration.	MSM is most helpful with inflammation and pain. This dietary aide has been widely used in veterinary medicine for horses and only recently have the benefits been realized in companion animals and humans. MSM permeates the cell membranes of arthritic joints, allowing swelling to be reduced, and pain to be eased. Many older dogs have experienced relief with MSM. MSM also helps release accumulated toxins from cells and is said to help most ailments such as skin problems and can boost energy levels. Because MSM is not a drug but a natural nutrient, it is not toxic and has no affects on other drugs being taken.	Two great product reccomendations Arthrix by Kala Health Please order through this link - Click here to go to the Kala Health home page and search for Arthrix to see several product offerings ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Wellflex Another great product! Contains MSM, Chondroitin, Glucosamine, Vitamin C and more great ingredients Click on the picture to order and read more
Glycoflex	An all-natural supplement that helps to promote joint health without side effects.	An advanced series flexible life-changing program that meets the needs of the dog as well as the economic needs of the owner. Has many loyal customers.	Click on the product to go directly to Healthy Pets.com to order. All Glyco-Flex ® formulas contain 600mg of Perna and 100 mg of Dimethylglycine. In addition to that Glyco-Flex ® I contains 500mg of Glucosamine HCl. Glyco-Flex ® II contains 750 mg of Glucosamine, 500 mg of Methylsulfonylmethane, and Manganese. Glyco-Flex ® III contains 1,000 mg each of Methylsulfonylmethane and Glucosamine along with Vitamins E and C, Grape Seed Extract, Glutathione, Selenium, and Manganese for additional support.	See many other great products that HealthyPets.com offers - click on the logo above. Another product from HealthyPets.com which is highly reccomended is Synovi G3. Click on the Healthy Pets link above to search their whole line of great products.
Sea Jerky	Sea Jerky® is “The Flexibilty Treat for Dogs” from NutriSea®. It contains the patented Sea Cucumber fraction Sea Chondroitin® plus Glucosamine HCL (from shrimp) to help provide nutritional support for cartilage. Each Sea Jerky® stick provides 1200 mg. of Sea Chondroitin®, 280 mg. of Glucosamine, Omega-3 fatty acids and other nutritional and mobility cofactors (kelp, garlic, natural vitamin E, lecithin) in an all-beef jerky stick dogs love. One Stick per day for 50-60 lb. dog.		Order Sea Jerky here
Healthy oils	Polyunsaturated fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6 oils. Polyunsaturated fats are necessary to the body. Saturated fats are fats which are found in cooked animal products and in fast foods. They are harmful to the body and actually have an inflammatory effect. People and pets with any form of arthritis should avoid them. For definitions on the different types of fatty acids, click here More articles with information Article1	Omega 3 (PG3) and Omega 6 (PG1) have an anti-inflammatory effect on your body. They help to lubricate the body and are also known for healing dry skin conditions and producing a smooth soft coat. Deep Sea Fish Oils, such as Cod Liver Oil are a good source of Omega 3. Cod Liver Oil has been linked to helping with Hip Displaysia.	You can purchase these oils at a health food store. Be sure the oils you purchase are cold pressed. Oils in liquid form should be in the refrigerated section. Capsules (liqui-caps) may not always be found in the refrigerator case, however be sure to refrigerate the bottle after opening it.	I give my dogs these in capsule form - I buy the small capsules (each one is slightly larger then a green pea). I don't even have to force feed them - we make it a game - I drop a capsule down on the kitchen floor and when it rollsl, the dogs chase them, catch them, and eat them. Oils can be purchased at any health food store. Or you can order here: Cod Liver Oil Salmon Oil
Brazil Nuts	Brazil nuts are high in Selenium, an essential trace mineral of fundamental importance to human and canine health. Adequate selenium is necessary for the normal functioning of the immune system and thyroid gland. Selenium is receiving considerable attention for its possible role as an effective naturally occurring anti-carcinogenic agent.	Insufficient selenium intake can cause serious health problems, including Kashin-Beck disease, which is characterized by the degeneration of the articular cartilage between joints⁸, thyroid disease and a variety of cancers. There are also well-researched reports linking selenium deficiency with hip dysplasia.	Can be purchased at a health food store. Should be raw (not dry roasted) and unsalted.	Read Article Here for proper dosage and additional facts and references

Have you used any of these products? Would you like to submit a comment or testimonial? Click here

*There are hundreds of supplements on the market today - this list is just a sampling of what's available. We will add additional products as we hear of them and recommendations come in.

*Remember that supplements are a great way to add vitamins, minerals and other good things to your dogs diet but nothing can substitute a high quality diet. Feed your dog foods that use all human grade ingredients. For kibbles, use a product that is baked if possible. Home cooking is another fun activity and great way to ensure your dog is getting high quality food - there are many cookbooks for dogs available.

Other methods
Avoid Stress: Stress causes the heart to beat too fast, the muscles to be too tense, the entire metabolism to be too fast. It has an affect on the immune system too.
Weight: Keep your dog lean and in a reasonable weight range. Talk to your vet about a good way to reduce your dogs weight. As a general rule, reduce your dogs daily intake by 25%.

Disclaimer:
The information on this page is not intended to replace veterinary advice. This page is a compilation of various treatments used to treat Canine Hip Displaysia. It has been created for informational purposes. We cannot guarantee the effectiveness of any of these products, as what will work for one dog may not work for another. If you are using a product on this page and find it either helpful or non-helpful, please let us know! Recommendations are much better when we hear from the people who are using them!