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St Bernard Hip Dysplasia


macca1407
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Just looking for a bit of advice.  We have a 9 month old St Bernard who looks like he's got hip dysplasia.  We have to go see a surgeon this week, but just wanting any advice on whether hip replacement is necessary at this age.  Or whether we should look to have hydrotherapy sessions or physio sessions.  Has anybody else been in this situation?  TIA

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I'm so sorry to hear this. I am not familiar with St Bernard's but my then 10 month old German Shepherd puppy was diagnosed with severe HD. He underwent bilateral Total Hip Replacements before he was 2. I think it depends on what your vet and the specialist or specialists (I asked for multiple opinions) say. If he does have severe HD then hydrotherapy etc is not going to fix the issue just help build and keep muscle mass around the hind.

 

I wish you all the best, it is such devastating news to receive.

 

P.S I take it you have had x rays done?

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What advice has the breeder given.

I gather x rays have been taken and the vet is actually savvy in knowing HD 

Advice hard to say ,I guess it depends on how severe it potentially is and what benefits early surgery has against waiting .

All these things you need to ask and plenty of why questions .

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Has he been diagnosed by x-rays from an experienced vet? Saints grow so fast that some may diagnose HD without proper clinical investigation. Whilst a score cannot be given so young, any x-rays should be sent to a qualified reader for evaluation before you decide on any path of treatment.

 

If you have done this and received a qualified report, then do seek as much information as possible before surgery. My opinion is surgery should not be undertaken lightly. There are many factors to consider, including the effect on the dog's personality, which is still developing at this age.

 

What advice has your breeder given? 

 

If it is HD then long term treatment will vary depending on the severity. Many dogs do very well with natural therapies, swimming, and staying light.

 

Please let us know how you go.

 

Sags

 

 

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