Originally posted by Cinder & Smoke
He said there were lots of "fancy meds" to reduce pain and/or swelling -
but sold us on just giving her an Adult Asprin whenever she
over-exerted and seemed limpy or gimpy...

Casey lived to 13 on a few asprins a week!

But if you have X-rays that confirm HD - that's another story.
I'd ask if they are Bad Enough that she NEEDS surgery;
or if her condition CAN be treated with asprin or other meds.
The vet showed me that Shiloh has mild HD which is causing arthritic changes that are causing the problem. She said that if she had a Total Hip Replacement, the arthritic parts would be removed and she would no longer have a problem. She also stated that another treatment could be Cosequin DS daily and pain meds when necessary. If she has alot of muscular strength in the rear (she does) than that treatment may be ok. BUT.....it can get worse in her later years and surgery might not be an option. She is 5 yrs. old now and in prime shape for surgery, later she may not be.
Another thing, surgery has its risks. For example, today on the GSD bb a dog had the FHO (lesser hip surgery) and had complications. At the moment we are praying that she is ok. It doesn't sound good. She has no use of her rear legs as of yet. Hearing this scares me about surgery.
I have to make an appointment to see the specialist yet. Maybe what he tells me will make it easier to decide which way to go.