Hi Kristen,
I PennHip all my breeding dogs and agree that .81 is a seriously loose hip.
There may be no DJD at this point but he is more likely to develop
arthritic changes sooner in his life than a dog with a tighter hip. It is
important to keep him lean and in good condition. A regular exercise
program performed daily is best with perhaps an easier third or second day
depending on his comfort levels. He has to live the life so don't molly
coddle him, many a dog with severe hip dysplasia has lived a long and
happy life without needing surgery. TPOs are generally performed early
before any changes have occured in the joint but current thoughts lean
towards seeing how the dog grows and what his comfort levels are and then
doing a total hip replacement. You will need the guidance of an orthopedic
specialist and board certified surgeon.
Supplementing his diet with Glucosamine Sulphate and Chondroitin Sulphate
may help and 500mgs of Vitamin C may be beneficial.
Have you had his shoulders and elbows xrayed as well. Oftentimes with hip
dysplasia there can be some compromise on these joints as the dog will
compensate.
Rose Tierney
