How to Help German Shepherds With Hip Problems
- 1). Surgically treat your German shepherd's hip problems. Several different surgeries can be performed on your dog for hip dysplasia, including triple pelvic osteotomy, juvenile pubic symphysiodesis, total hip replacement and femoral head and neck excision. Which type of surgery is best for your German shepherd depends upon the severity of the hip dysplasia and the age of your dog.
- 2). Help your dog maintain its ideal weight. The less weight your German shepherd has to carry, the better it is for his hips.
- 3). Exercise your dog, if she is able. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming and leash-walking, are effective in developing and maintaining your dog's muscles.
- 4). Massage your dog and try physical therapy. These two treatments can help to relax stiff muscles and build a better range of motion.
- 5). Give your German shepherd glucosamine and chondroitin supplements or have a veterinarian administer Adequan injections. Over time, these medications can help damaged cartilage to grow back and can support the healthy cartilage that may still exist.
- 6). Treat your dog with non-steriodal anti-inflammatory drugs, if he is healthy enough. Medications such as Rimadyl and Deramaxx can be beneficial in alleviating the pain that can be caused by hip problems. Blood work needs to be done to ensure that your German shepherd's kidneys and liver can sustain the medications.
- 7). Provide a warm and comfortable sleeping area. Arthritis and other joint problems can become more painful when it is cold; therefore, you may want to keep the temperature in your home warm. If your German shepherd has an orthopedic bed to sleep and relax on, he may be more comfortable.
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