Hip and Elbow dysplasia

NEW ZEALAND VETERINARY ASSOCIATION

HIP AND ELBOW DYSPLASIA SCHEME

The scoring of Hip Dysplasia is based on a set of criteria which measure the depth of the joint and assess any degree of osteoarthritic changes. The numeric total score is the sum of nine separate scores of various features of the right and left hip joints. A low combined score represents the better hips. The ideal score is 2 or less, anything up to 4 is considered good. The mean scores for some breeds are much higher than the ideal and as a result are not necessarily a guideline for an acceptable score.

The dog or bitch must be one year old to be scored. The giant breeds might be best left until 18 months old. Pedigree details are required, but crossbred dogs can be scored in special circumstances e.g. working dogs such as guide, police, or companion dogs. Otherwise the certificate enclosed must be fully filled out and signed by both the owner and veterinarian. A copy of the registration certificate is required with each submission.

Elbow Dysplasia describes several conditions that result in the failure of normal elbow joint development in dogs. Studies of several breeds have shown a strong hereditary basis for some of these diseases. It has been well established overseas that selectively breeding dogs radiographically free of this disease can reduce disease incidence significantly.

Screening is based on assessing an x-ray of each elbow of dogs one year of age and over. Elbows are evaluated radiographically for the presence of a primary lesion and evidence of arthritis. Dogs with a primary lesion are graded dysplastic regardless of the extent of arthritis.

In the majority of situations, if elbow dysplasia is present, it can be detected at one year of age.

Procedure

Your dog will need to have a general anaesthetic to get good quality hip and/or elbow x-rays.

In preparation for the general anaesthetic no food should be given after 6pm the night before.  Your dog will need to stay the day at the clinic to allow for xrays to be taken.

You will need to bring the following with you on the day of your dogs x-rays: 

1. Your dogs kennel registration papers including registered name and registered NZKC number. This must include information on the dog’s dam & sire, and paternal and maternal grand dam & sire.
2. Microchip number if applicable
3. Tattoo number if applicable