Dislocated Hip

[MelD]

Just got news from the doctor that my newf has a dislocated hip and needs surgery. Her hips are good so no need for a replacement, just a repair. Has anyone gone through this before?

 

[Jeannie]

Was this an injury that caused the dislocation? Or is this hereditary? Does he show signs of pain? Can he walk normally?

My Chase has terrible hips. She is now 11 1/2 and has had no problems. Supplements help a lot. I was once told by a old time breeder that my dog does not walk on her x-rays and to not tell her she has bad hips. I've always treated her normally and have not had any problems.

 

[DAWNMERIE]

My first newf dislocated his hip, he was either a mix or a poorly bred newf. His hips were awful. We had him in a cast and sling for about a month. I suggest investing in a help em up harness, it will make life easier for both of you

 

[MelD]

She somehow injured herself. No other hip problems (dysplasia, etc.) She has a really hard time walking.

 

[Jeannie]

If she somehow hurt herself you probably don't have any other choice than to repair it. Did you get a 2nd opinion?

 

[DAWNMERIE]

Do you have x-rays? You will need to repair, period. My dogs joints were so bad the one side popped out and had to be put back in place while he was under and then the vet taped his leg up, so it would stay in place. He was on 3 legs for at least a good month, if not longer. Maybe get an ortho's opinion, sometimes they don't need surgery and can have it put back in place but I would assume that would be a specialist. If your hip was out, you wouldn't be walking.

 

[MelD]

We went to an ortho specialist at a very good vet who is doing the surgery. The vet said (and my own research confirmed) that surgery is really the best option with a dislocated hip. While they could have tried to put it back in without surgery the success rate was less than 50% in large breed dogs like newfs. She comes home tomorrow. After reading some of the stories here, I was hoping for some words of encouragement on caring for her post surgery. I have an area of our house without stairs all set up for us and am getting the harness. Any other advice?

 

[DAWNMERIE]

I apologize if I came off cross, it was not meant that way. I would think it should be treated similar to an ACL repair, but I'm sure vet will give detailed instructions. Keeping them quite and still (and depending on the age. that can be challenge in itself) If you can find maybe some brain games, they can help keeping the pup occupied. My girl has always like the egg babies, she's played with them her entire 8 yrs, and still does. Is she a chewer? If so, might not be a good idea, here's a link just incase you want to try. Also you can help recovery with certain massages for that you might want to see about maybe downloading and reading about Tellington Touch.

https://www.amazon.com/Outward-Hound-31008-Babies-Platypus/dp/B0009YHTA6

Wishing you both best of luck for an uneventful recovery!

 

[MelD]

You didn't come across cross! I really appreciate the input. I'm grateful for this forum to vent and vet questions.

 

[Brandie&Maggie]

Yikes! Poor thing!

I agree that puzzles or brain games are great for keeping her occupied. I'm sure the vet will give detailed instructions, but you may need to get an ex-pen (or enclosed baby play yard) to restrict her activity.

Remember that Newfs can take a while (i.e. a couple of days) to really come out of the anesthesia.

If she has any razor rash or skin irritation from being shaved, baby powder or coconut oil can help calm/soothe it.

Hope she's better ASAP!

 

[victoria1140]

Unfortunately for mine sedatives had to be employed as mine are hyper little darlings.

One of mine had a tpo surgery and lots of non slip mats,ruffwear climbing harness,no stairs, lots of patience.

What type of surgery was it