Ann
Moderator
I do have experience with hip dysplasia and in a very young dog, less than a year old. The best thing I did was to take her to a veterinary chiropractor who was able to use her hands as well as the xrays to assess her regularly. She gets adjusted every six weeks and it has really helped. Both the chiro and an orthopedic surgeon we consulted told me that exercise is essential as long as she isn't in pain. Regular walking is key, and her favorite thing in life is to run and chase after balls, which is good in moderation. What this exercise does is help build the cartilage around her hip joints to support the bones. Over a year, it has really made a difference with her and she moves much more easily than she used to.
I also give her several supplements recommended by my vet. Adequan shots monthly have helped, plus a good glucosamine/condroitin/MSM such as Cosequin. I also give her Duralactin, a milk protein that has anti-inflammatory properties, and Mercola's krill oil. You can use any good quality fish oil; I like krill because it's the most pure and less smelly than salmon oil. Both Cosequin DS and Duralactin are available on Amazon and you don't need a prescription.
I see that you have had xrays done, so you should be able to see the degree of dysplasia. I strongly recommend having a consult with an orthopedic surgeon...your vet should be able to refer you to one. Once the degree of displaysia is assessed, you can determine how to treat it. A canine chiropractor can work wonders if there's one near you, and Simba may never need surgery if he's maintained well. Here's a link to the some of the best information I've found on HD.
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2084&aid=444
Jumping is verboten, as are things like leaping at frisbees, jumping on things, etc. Anything that would put pressure on the hips is not a good idea so, unfortunately, I think most vets would rule out agility. I wouldn't listen to other people who tell you whether Simba can or can't handle agility...find a vet you can trust and get his or her advice on what's best for Simba and follow it. As others have said, there are other dog sports you can do.
HD is a tough diagnosis, and the long-term ramifications are daunting. But with early treatment and good maintenance, it's manageable and Simba can still lead a happy, active life with a job.
I also give her several supplements recommended by my vet. Adequan shots monthly have helped, plus a good glucosamine/condroitin/MSM such as Cosequin. I also give her Duralactin, a milk protein that has anti-inflammatory properties, and Mercola's krill oil. You can use any good quality fish oil; I like krill because it's the most pure and less smelly than salmon oil. Both Cosequin DS and Duralactin are available on Amazon and you don't need a prescription.
I see that you have had xrays done, so you should be able to see the degree of dysplasia. I strongly recommend having a consult with an orthopedic surgeon...your vet should be able to refer you to one. Once the degree of displaysia is assessed, you can determine how to treat it. A canine chiropractor can work wonders if there's one near you, and Simba may never need surgery if he's maintained well. Here's a link to the some of the best information I've found on HD.
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2084&aid=444
Jumping is verboten, as are things like leaping at frisbees, jumping on things, etc. Anything that would put pressure on the hips is not a good idea so, unfortunately, I think most vets would rule out agility. I wouldn't listen to other people who tell you whether Simba can or can't handle agility...find a vet you can trust and get his or her advice on what's best for Simba and follow it. As others have said, there are other dog sports you can do.
HD is a tough diagnosis, and the long-term ramifications are daunting. But with early treatment and good maintenance, it's manageable and Simba can still lead a happy, active life with a job.