I have a 4 yr old pit mix who suddenly began to have trouble walking, i mean big trouble. He doesn't even want to get up to eat. I am very worried and am just hoping for some king of advice before I take him in to the vet. His hind legs are the giving him a problem. I am wondering if he may have hip dysplasia. Any advice?

tickle

pitty mom, how old is your pet ? I dont recall pitts having trouble with hip displaysia. They are usually pretty big boned and not too long. My advice is, of course, take him to the vet.

tick

pitty mom

Ozzy is 4 years old, and he is a mix...not sure what he is mixed with, because we got him from the shelter. He weighs 97 lbs and is quite big. I did take him yesterday, the vet said he has some sort of bug. I am waiting on the blood test results. He also said that Ozzy has 'thick knees' and that wasn't good, but after already dishing out $300 I couldn't afford an x-ray. So now Ozzy is on antibiotics and he is looking a little better, but still having trouble walking.

tickle

Hang in there,pitty, and use your good common sense as I do with my elder dog who is 11, and huge (not fat). She tore a ligament in her hind leg, the prognosis wasnt good at her vet, but I persevered doing what I do best with her. Wait and see attitude. She is okay now, walks okay but no more long walks. Your dog will be fine. You know, they just need love and tender care and they always do well from and bounce back.

Ozzy has the benefit of being just out of puppy hood. I had a problem with the X ray issue too, but I didnt need it after all.

tick

Catsmine

Genetic hip dysplasia can be aggravated by growth spurts or rapid weight change. At 4 years growth spurts are probably not a factor. See this link, it's a few years old but it's pretty complete.

Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

pitty mom

Thanks Tick. Ozzy is bouncing back with a LOT of love and some medication. He is improving every day! In a week or so he should be back to his old self again.