Hip Dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia, or HD, is one of the most widely discussed of all animal afflictions, since it has appeared in varying degrees in just about every breed of dog. True, the larger breeds seem more suseptible, but it has hit the small breeds and is beginning to be recognised in cats as well.

While HD in man has been recorded as far back as 370B.C., HD in dogs was more than likely referred to as rheumatism until veterinary research came into the picture.

HD is a incurable, hereditory, though not congenital disease of the hip sockets. It is transmitted as a dominate trait with irregular manifestations. Puppies appear normal at birth but the constant wearing away of the socket means the animal moves more and more on muscle, thereby presenting lameness, a difficulty in getting up and severe pain in advanced cases.

The degree of severity can be determined around 6 months of age, but it's presence can be noticed at 2 months of age. The problem is determined by x-ray, and if pain is present it can be relieved temporarily by medication. Exercise should be avoided since motion encourages the wearing away of the bone surfaces.

Dogs with HD should not be shown or bred, if quality in the breed is to be maintained. It is essential to check the pedigree for dogs known to be dysplastic before breeding, since the disease can be dormant for many generations.