|
Hip Dysplasia
Perhaps the most common musculoskeletal defect affecting dogs of virtually every breed, hip dysplasia means simply an abnormality in the ball and socket apparatus that is the hip joint. The dysplasia of the hip joint is observable through radiography (x-rays). Symptoms of hip dysplasia range from very mild/almost not observable to severely crippling. This is the result of changes in the bone of the joint with arthritic-type symptoms such as: lameness, pain, and obvious abnormality in how a dog walks, trots or runs. Treatment may range according to the symptoms of the dog, from palliative use of pain medications to surgical intervention, to improve function and relieve pain. Evidence suggests that there is a large hereditary component in hip joint conformation, with an additional interplay of environment and nutrition. It is recommended that Field Spaniels that are bred have hip radiography performed using either the OFA or the PennHip method.
To help you see what “hip dysplasia” means, the x-rays shown at the right will be helpful.
The top x-ray shows a set of hips rated as “excellent”. Note the good fit of the ball and socket joint of both hips.
In the x-rays shown at the right, the lower x-ray shows a set of hips rated as “severely” dysplastic. Note the poor fit of the ball and socket joint of both hips. |
|
“EXCELLENT” |
|
“Severely Dysplastic” |
|
Luxating Patella
Luxating patella means simply that the "knee cap" (patella) slips from usual position. It is a less common problem in Field Spaniels but is known to have occurred. It may be either inherited or acquired through trauma. Symptoms range from mild and occasional lameness to obvious and continual abnormality in how the dog moves. Treatment of the disorder is often surgical. It is highly recommended that Field Spaniels that are bred have veterinary palpation of the patella to determine whether or not luxation is present.
Resources: Take the time to learn more about it! ¨ Orthopedic Foundation For Animals ¨ PennHip
The “OFA” website (click on Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) has an area where you can search the records yourself to find out more about dogs that might be in the pedigree of a puppy you are considering for purchase or of a dog you might be considering as a breeding prospect. Take the time to do the groundwork; it will be time well spent!
|
|
SITE INDEX
· Articles about Field Spaniels · Field Spaniel Breed Standard Guide · Finding a Breeder of Field Spaniels · History of the Field Spaniel · Homepage · Links · Temperament of a Field Spaniel · Things you can do with your Field Spaniels · Agility · Conformation · Hunting · Junior Showmanship · Obedience · Rally · Tracking
|
