How to Diagnose Hip & Feet Problems in Dogs
Hip and foot problems in dogs do not usually start overnight. They are often cumulative problems that build up over time. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, only a licensed veterinarian can make a definitive diagnosis of an animal's health problem. There are some steps you can take to ensure that you are able to recognize the onset of these issues before they become severe problems. As an informed pet owner, performing routine checks on your dog and using preventive medicine as well having a keen eye can diminish the need for costly and dangerous corrective procedures.
Instructions
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Research the breed or breed mix of your dog. Certain dogs are genetically predisposed to hip and foot problems. Knowing if your dog is predisposed toward these problems may prove to be useful information.
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Observe your dog as she plays. Does she run with a limp? Does she need to take periodic breaks from her activities? Changes in behavior can be one indication that a dog is having an issue. Take note of any abnormalities such as whimpering, sudden aggression, limping, stumbling or the need for frequent rests.
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Perform periodic physical examinations on your dog at home. Use your fingers to feel along the length of your dog's spine. The spine is centrally located along the dog's back.
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Use both hands to feel along the spine, observing any bumps or abnormalities along the way. Pay particular attention to the area just in front of the hind legs. This is where most hip problems occur. Feel for any lumps, bumps or soft spots.
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After palpating, or feeling the bones and muscles of your dog's hips, run your hands down each leg until you reach the dog's feet. Again, you are feeling for lumps, bumps or anything that feels abnormal. Take note of any reactions from your dog that may indicate pain or discomfort as you perform this exercise.
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Repeat this process for the front legs, paying particular attention to any areas that the dog seems to be favoring. If your dog does not seem to want to bear weight on her right front paw, pay close attention to that paw when feeling for foot problems.
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Pay a visit to your veterinary health care professional. Hip and foot problems can be caused by a variety of issues. It can be as simple as a sprain or as potentially devastating as arthritis or hip dysplasia. Inform your veterinarian of anything you have noted during your home exams, as well as observations of your dog's behavior. He or she will be able to run the appropriate diagnostic exams, including but not limited to X-rays, MRIs, bone density scans and blood sampling.
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Tips & Warnings
If you cannot afford a visit a veterinarian's office, contact a chapter of the Humane Society. Many local branches have low-cost clinics or vouchers that enable those who cannot afford veterinary medical care to seek help.
Do not assume that a problem with the hip and feet will go away, no matter how minor it seems. Hip and foot issues are often the result of many injuries or aggravations to the area over time and may get worse. The result of not properly diagnosing or caring for these issues can be catastrophic. Lameness, inability to walk, loss of limbs and death are all viable possibilities.
