Hip Problems

[BabyElephant]

OK, I know that I notice every little change in Poppy but this one has me worried. Yesterday and today I've noticed that she's not walking properly. Her right leg seems to cross in front of her left leg when she's walking at a fast pace. If she's running or walking slowly you can't see it or it doesn't happen. It doesn't happen with every step either and sometimes I have noticed that she "skips" with that leg.

Now it doesn't seem to be bothering her so I wondered is this how signs of HD start? Is she at the age for it to become apparent or would it have appeared earlier? She will be 2 in June. Or could it simply be something that will go away?

We will see the vet again for more blood tests in two weeks time so I will bring it up then - I don't think it warrants a vet visit before then - do you? Also I was wondering whether or not it would be worthwhile getting her hips x-rayed while she's under anasthetic for the spay surgery that should be happening soon.

[Dobified]

I am sorry Suzanne. I pray that is not what Poppy has. Labs are prone to that unfortunatley.

Here is a link that will help you identify the symptoms and hopefully rule it out for you.

http://www.workingdogs.com/doc0090.htm

[Luvmyjob]

An x-ray while Poppy is out is a good idea. This will be a sure way to find HD if she has it. I had definate signs with Buddy, the x-ray confirmed it. I hope Poppy doesn't have HD, but if so, it is treatable depending on the severity. Buddy is doing real good on Glucosamine.

[Deb's Tiny Dogs]

Although not too common in the bigger dogs, I have heard of some that have luxating patella, where the knee cap slips out of place causing a temp limp in that leg until it goes back into place.

Bogey has it in both back legs. He takes glucosamine and chondroiton (sp?) and rarely has a flare up.

[pung-yo]

Most large breed dogs are prone to HD but don't jump the gun yet. The most common first sign of HD is a dog refuses to do stairs, or simply acts reluctant to do so. The trouble could be in the spine, ID, or even bone spurs. My horse accupuncturist actually disengaged a couple of spurs in our last Shepherd's back.

[Blaze]

I really hope that isn't what Poppy has! I also think getting her x-rayed would be a good idea!

[BabyElephant]

Thanks guys and thanks for the site Dobifed I will take a closer look at that. I was wondering if the hormone treatment she's had could cause her ligaments to become softer or something. You know like in women when they get pregnant because of the hormones all the ligaments loosen up, I wonder if it's the same with dogs and it's that is causing it???

I'll let you know what the vet says when we go in a couple of weeks.

[weezyNollie]

I think its a very good idea to do hip rads while under anesthesia.

Actually, most vets require/recommend this! It can be painful to have their hips manipulated in the way they need for the certain shots.

Might as well use one anesthesia for both! Ask when you get your blood rechecked.

It's better that you notice and handle things earlier than later. You're a good mom, and an even better vet client! We love these types.

[Dax]

Since you're not breeding her, I would not bother with the xrays, etc. Eventually if a large dog lives long enough, their will be hip and/or arthritis problems. During your next visit, I would get the vet to recommend a dietary supplement for her. It's a good idea to start those now anyway.

[siberian 1]

my suka is 10 yrs old she had x-rays today to find out why shes so lame ,well she has severe arthritis in her right hip .taking metacam for this & is already on glucomax & condroitin.poor old gal