hip displacia?

Question

how long can my german shepherd ben have this for was diagnosed 6 weeks ago cost nearly £1000 and on medication money is not a option he walks fine runs well and shows no physical signs hes my baby and i cant loose him but reality do i give it time or a cut off point hes the soppiest thing u ever did see every body loves him even neighbours helping if and when things get worse but at moment vets very pleased with him have 4 monthly injections and doing well only 5 years old i cant loose him....its breaking my heart ..

surgery is my top option on next things to do list in mean time we looking into hydro therapy

hes on a tablet called seraquin in uk

Answer 1

Try shark cartilage pills, they say they work really well for problems like that for people and dogs! When my last German Shepherd was about the same age, she started with hip problems like that, and the doctor put her on some type of pill, and it pretty much went away until she was 10, and then started back up again, but at that age you can pretty much expect it, especially with the arthritis as well. You can ask your vet about the shark cartilage, or just get some at a good health food store. German Shepherds, usually take about the same dose that people do considering their size. Going up and down stairs does not help either. My vet also recommended surgery, and said it sometimes helps, and sometimes not, it all depends on the dog, and his specific problem. Good luck, and hope everything goes well!

Answer 2

As a human who's had both hips replaced, I have an idea of the pain your dog's had or is going to have. I know hydrotherapy works well for many people and it should keep your dog comfortable for a while. Surgery will probably be needed before too long. Try to make some financial arrangements with your vet. I wish you and your pet all the best.

Answer 3

Unfortunately, once a K9 has hip displacia, he will always have it. I've heard that shark cartilidge works well in addition to any medications you are receiving from your vet. I say if he's eating, acting, running well enough now, then live your life to the fullest with him and enjoy the time you do have together. You'll know when it's time to put him down for his sake. Hope this helps & I hope u have many more years 2gether!

Answer 4

He is only 5, I think you are saying that you don't have the money for the surgery...You should check with the vet, they may be able to offer a payment plan to help you do the surgery. My dog is my baby too, and he had to have surgery last year, he is doing really well, but I know how you feel, we are still paying off the surgery, but he is well worth it!! I would also get another opinion if I were you, if might ease your mind....good luck..and kisses to your pup!

Answer 5

Hip dysplacia is an abnormality in the joint of the hip.It can cause serious problems to a dog cause it can affect his running,walking etc and it can cause severe pain.Your dog doesn't seem to have that.It's very common in large breed dogs,usually they have it since birth.But it can also appear later in the life of the dog.It can be operated,have you talked to your vet if that's an option?Otherwise I guess your vet gave you painkillers,and vitamines and calcium tablets to help stronger his bones.There is also special food for bones and joints,it's more expensive but is worth it.I don't think that your dog has a serious case of hip dysplacia cause otherwise he would have symptoms and you say he hasn't so I wouldn't worry to much about it.Talk with your vet about your option(surgical or preservative treatment)

Answer 6

Hip dysplasia is a common problem with German Shepherds. If the vets are optomistic regarding his prognosis that's great.

The other responders are right - dogs with hip dysplasia can lead a good life just limit his activity. Ginbail is right about Chondrointin and glucosamine. My cat who lived until he was 21 seemed better on them.

Answer 7

Dogs with hip displasia can usually do fine with medication and limited activity. Also, some folks supplement their dog's diet with glucosamine and condroiten - this sometimes helps too.
I feel bad for your dog, but don't give up hope. Keep your dog comfortable, limit his activity and you can both do fine for a long, long time.

Answer 8

See if you can locate an animal massage therapist. The massage therapy will help to increase the production of synovial fluid in the joint and release endorphins (natural painkillers). I have seen it work wonders on dogs.

Answer 9

While you are looking into things, look up Gold Bead Implants. There are a lot of dogs having this done for their hips.

It is a permanent for of accupuncture.