Natural Help for Canine Hip Dysplasia

by Luella May

Hip dysplasia, the most common cause of canine arthritis, is an ailment that affects generally large breeds of dogs. Causing high levels of pain and decreased mobility, it is a very debilitating condition that interferes with a dog’s ability to enjoy life. Although hip dysplasia is thought to be incurable, many dogs have been reported to have made remarkable recoveries through dietary changes, exercise and natural remedies.

The earlier the condition is discovered and treated the better the chances of dogs finding relief. Early treatment may prevent the onset of arthritis as well help to greatly reduce pain and lack of mobility. However, left untreated, a dog may lose its ability to walk.

A dog owner usually notices that something is amiss when they see their pet walking with an abnormal gait. Limping or lameness may be present, together with wasting around the thighs. Other noticeable symptoms include difficulty or discomfort when sitting or lying down or in getting up or standing. A dog may also be reluctant to participate in activities such as running and jumping.

Hip dysplasia is a form of degenerative disease affecting a dog’s hip joints. It may be the result of one or both of two reasons: 1) Either the hip socket is too shallow to firmly hold the thighbone, or 2) The muscles and ligaments may not be strong enough to hold the joint in place. This results in pain, inflammation and decreased mobility.

Hip dysplasia is generally a genetic condition. Although dogs of all ages can develop this condition, it usually occurs during a dog’s growing phase – though it does not usually present itself until the dog gets older. Other causes and contributing factors may include over-vaccination, improper diet, and obesity.

Dogs with hip dysplasia should be given moderate exercise, avoiding activities that place unwanted stress on the joints and focusing instead on strengthening muscle mass. Swimming is an excellent exercise for dogs suffering from hip dysplasia. For sleeping, a comfortable bed that cushions the joints should be provided. Additionally, careful attention should be placed in not leaving dogs outdoors for long periods of time during colder weather.

Switching a dog to a raw diet has been shown to be effective in relieving hip dysplasia symptoms.

Many dogs given colloidal silver and colloidal gold have shown a marked improvement in their condition as well as an overall improvement in healthy and vitality. Colloidal silver helps to regenerate both tissue and bone. Recent studies and tests have shown colloidal gold to be very effective in treating arthritic conditions. It eliminates pain, increases mobility and reduces swelling.

Some other supplements that can help with hip dysplasia are:

*Glucosamine and chondroitin are effective in repairing joint wear-and-tear.

*MSM is effective in relieving pain and joint inflammation.

*Omega 3’s also help to relieve joint inflammation.

*Ester-C is very effective in relieving inflammation and cartilage damage. Vitamin E, which also relieves inflammation, helps the body to better absorb Ester-C.

* Colostrum has been used by holistic veterinarians in treating problems with joints and connective tissue, such as hip dysplasia and degenerative arthritis. Colostrum facilitates the body’s regenerative processes and is even more effective when combined with chondroitin and glucosamine.

*Hyaluronic Acid decreases pain and improves mobility.

The following herbs have been found to be effective in treating hip dysplasia:

*Dandelion and Nettle aid in joint repair and eliminating metabolic wastes from the body.

*Alfalfa helps relieve pain and discomfort resulting from arthritis.

*Licorice and Yucca have anti-inflammatory properties.

*Ginkgo, Hawthorne, Rosemary, Cayenne, and Ginger improve blood circulation.

Note: The dog in the photo, "Pepper the Found Dog" (who actually lives with my cousin) began having problems with his hip to the point that he was constantly limping, no longer able to run at any speed, and had a very tough time lying down and getting up.  After only a couple of weeks of colloidal silver and colloidal gold added to his water plus a joint supplement that contained glucosamine and chondroitin, he barely favors his hip, runs at full speed and chases cows again, and frisks around with renewed vigor like we have not seen in years.  He had taken the supplement alone for several weeks with little improvement.

Sources:

http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1916
http://pethealth.petwellbeing.com/wiki/Dog_Hip_Dysplasia