Hip Dysplasia is an inherited disease that affects the hip joints. Often appearing in breeds that are large or go through a period of rapid growth, this form of osteoarthritis can cause a loss of cartilage, bone damage, joint spurs and inflammation.
Common symptoms include stiffness, difficulty in rising from a laying position, going up stairs or walking. If your goldendoodle is exhibiting any of these symptoms, he should see a veterinarian immediately for a professional evaluation. If you’re concerned about the prospect of surgery, you should know how to treat hip dysplasia with holistic medicine, and even how you can prevent it.
Before purchasing your goldendoodle, you should have access to the medical records of the puppy’s parents to see if they have histories of hip dysplasia. Unfortunately, this is not a sure fire method of avoiding the disorder, as some veterinarians believe that if as few as twenty-five percent of a puppy’s predecessors had the disorder, he is more likely to inherit it. Still, there are some things you can do to help prevent hip dysplasia from developing.
First, new studies have shown that controlling the puppy’s diet can help prevent or delay the onset of the disorder. Reducing the amount of food given to the puppy for the first two years may help, but be sure to ask your veterinarian how much food is appropriate. The type of food may make a difference as well. Holistic veterinarians recommend a homemade diet made up of whole meats, vegetables and grains. The goal is to prevent obesity, which can put undue stress on the hip joints.
Puppies are highly energetic but too much boisterous play may result in too much stress on the joints. Keep your goldendoodle from to much jumping or lingering activity until he reaches a year old. Swimming is highly recommended, as it puts less stress on the hip joints.
Alternative therapies such as homeopathy, acupuncture, and therapeutic massage as provided by holistic veterinarians are gaining in popularity as an alternative to more intrusive therapies like surgery. Acupuncture has been found to be very beneficial, as it seems to slow down the degeneration in the joints, even in the worst cases of hip displasia. But the most successful alternative treatments have turned out to be join-nourishing supplements that help the body naturally lubricate the joints and rebuild the cartilage that has been damaged. A number of different supplements can be used to reduce inflammation and pain, as well.
If you’re interested in preventing or treating hip dysplasia in your goldendoodle in a safe and natural way, find a holistic veterinarian in your area and follow his advice.
