Discover the silent threat lurking in many young pets: hip dysplasia. Affecting a staggering 65-70% of puppies under one year old, this joint condition often goes unnoticed as it doesn't immediately present symptoms. Learn about the proactive measures you can take to safeguard your pet's future mobility and comfort.
Hip dysplasia is a degenerative joint disorder commonly found in dogs and cats, characterized by a malformation of the hip joint where the ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) do not fit together properly. This can lead to joint instability, pain, and eventually arthritis. While it is often associated with larger breeds, hip dysplasia can affect animals of any size and breed. Alarmingly, research indicates that a high percentage of young puppies, regardless of breed, can show signs of hip dysplasia when examined via X-ray, even in the absence of visible symptoms such as lameness or pain.
For adult pets already showing symptoms of joint issues, many pet owners have turned to supplements like high-quality liquid glucosamine. However, for younger pets, early intervention is key. Waiting for symptoms to manifest or relying solely on X-rays to make health decisions may not be necessary. Instead, considering the playful and active nature of pets, it's wise to start joint care early to prevent trauma and age-related joint deterioration.
Just as many adults regret not taking better care of their joints earlier in life, pet owners have the opportunity to be proactive with their pets' joint health. The use of supplements like liquid glucosamine can support joint function and potentially delay the onset of symptoms associated with hip dysplasia. Given the high prevalence of this condition in young pets, it's advisable to start maintenance early, rather than waiting for pain and suffering to begin.
In conclusion, hip dysplasia is a widespread issue among young pets that often goes undetected until it's too late. By understanding the condition and taking early action with supplements like liquid glucosamine, pet owners can play a crucial role in ensuring their furry companions lead a healthy, active life.
More Precautions and Approaches to Using NSAIDs
As our readers know, I am dead set against the use of NSAIDs. Over the counter NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are now being implicated in possible cardiac complications just as Vioxx and Celebrex have been. Of course, Bextra is on that list too.
Our Shoulders Do Plenty and That is the Problem
It's funny, but before I got involved in the arthritis business after my own injuries, I used to think that our knees were the easiest joint to injure. Of course, I now know that our knees carry about four times our body weight so certainly they are at risk. However, think about the role your shoulders play in your life.
Arthritis-Fighting Drugs: The Ulcer Connection
If you read these chronicles, you know that I have constantly warned about the dangers of using NSAID's to tackle arthritis pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can cause serious problems and ulcers are one of them. When we talk about NSAID's, we can include products like aspirin, Advil, Aleve, Motrin and many more. The newer group of NSAID's is also implicated. I am talking about Vioxx, Celebrex and Bextra. The risk factor for ulcer complications is lower with the last group of prescription drugs but as most of you know, Vioxx was recently pulled from the market because of possible cardiac implications. Of course, the drug companies and the government are taking a closer look at the other two drugs in that category.
