If I wanted to find out what Pongo's hip scores are, what would that involve? Is there a minimum age, and is it a major procedure?
Re: Hip testing They need to be 12 months and it involves a general anaesthetic. It's not something I'd do unless: (A) my dog had signs of lameness and I wanted to rule in or out bad hips as the cause (B) I wanted to breed from or show my dog (C) My dog was having an anaesthetic anyway for something else That's just my opinion though Do you think you have any reason to be worried about his hips?
Re: Hip testing Hi Rachael - no, I'm just the classic over-anxious mother! (And he does do a LOT of running and jumping up and down our very steep and hilly garden - can't stop him, he enjoys it too much.) I can't help imagining that I'm seeing stiffness in his gait and panicking - even though everyone else tells me its nonsense... Certainly wouldn't want to subject him to GA just to find out! Thanks for the answer. Is there any other way I can be reassuring myself or do I just have to take a chill pill? ;D
Re: Hip testing You can ask the vet to do a physical exam to check the looseness of his joints and his muscle development - that gives a general indication. But unless you notice any actual lameness I wouldn't make a special visit. The next time you're in for something you could ask the vet to check. Having said that, if you are really worried perhaps a visit might put your mind at rest Try not to worry though - most dogs have joints that will see them through their life just fine
