Legg-Perthes Disease in Dogs
Legg-Perthes Disease (LPD) is a degeneration of the hip joint due to lack of blood supply that can affect young dogs. Also known as Legg-Calve-Perthes or "avascular necrosis," this disease most often affects small or "toy" dog breeds.
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Symptoms
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Symptoms of LPD include pain and lameness of the hip area. According to Leggperthes.com, these symptoms may go unnoticed, but a veterinarian can create pain by moving the hip around and should take X-rays.
Non-Surgical Treatment
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Mild cases of LPD may be treated through immobilization of the limb with a sling. Some dogs can fully recover after enforced rest.
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Recovery Time
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According to Vetinfo.com, dog owners should allow 1 month of recovery time during enforced rest before considering surgery.
Surgical Treatment
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A veterinary surgeon may remove the dead tissue and part of the bone around the hip joint. LPD usually affects only one hip. The dog can fully recover but will "probably always have some gait abnormalities."
Causes
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The direct cause of LPD is reduced blood flow to the joint; however, researchers have found that it is a genetic disease and do not agree on the means of transfer.
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