PENNHIP

This is a radiography technique applied on the diagnosis of hip dysplasia of dogs.

Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD):
This is the most common hereditary orthopedic problem of dogs. Almost every dog breed experience this problem but big and giant dog breeds are the ones who suffer most from this orthopedic problem. CHD reveals itself in two different ways as a clinic syptom:

A: A type that is seen on relatively younger dogs and the symptoms are severe pain and lameness

B: The chronical form, which is seen in different ages, that asserts itself by the clinic sign as moderate and intermittent pain, restricted hip movements, stiffed and hard walking. Many types of this disease sneakily progresses without revealing any clinic symptoms and the animal organizes its movements for the purpose of reducing the pain.

The diagnosis of this disease, which particularly affects dogs throughout their lives, with ordinary techniques may be possible only after age one. In 1981, with her active work on CHD, Dr. Gail Smith, an orthopedic surgeon and bioengineer in Pennsylvania Veterinary Department, developed a new PennHip technique, which might have been beneficial in early diagnosis of this problem.

How to apply PennHip technique and what are the advantages?

This technique is applied by anesthetizing or by applying tranquilizer to the animal. The condition of the hip joint is examined by using the x-rays. And then, the laxity index of the hip joint is calculated by using these graphics and by comparing with PennHip index criteria, the possible CHD percentage can be obtained.
The biggest advantage of this technique is the early diagnosis of the problem and consequently protecting the animal from a disease, which can slowly affect it throughout its life, through corrective operations and additional medical treatment before the degenerative problems appear on the joints.

Critical note:

1. If you own large breed puppy or thinking about owning one, do not forget to have the PennHip graphics at 4-5 months and 7-9 months and have it done at certified veterinary clinics. This is one of the most important treatments that you can do for your dog.

2. If your dog is in CHD risk group, refrain from breeding. This is the most important step to prevent anguished little puppies.

3. As an adult dog owner, be informed about your dog’s hip joint health.

4. If you want to breed your pet, ask the owner of the other dog if they have an CHD report and decide after consulting your veterinary doctor.