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Question:

14 y/o dog hip luxation options

I'm really at a loss here and could use some advice. My 14-year-old dog, Max, has been such a big part of our family for so long, and seeing him in pain breaks my heart. Recently, he started limping pretty badly, and I just found out from the vet that he's got a hip luxation. They mentioned a couple of options, but none of them seem straightforward, especially given his age. Surgery feels risky, and I'm worried about how he'd handle recovery, plus it’s expensive. But then there's managing it with meds, which I’m not sure would give him the quality of life he deserves. I just want to do what's best for him, and I’m so torn. Has anyone been through something similar with their senior dog? What options did you go for, and how did it turn out? I could really use some guidance from fellow dog lovers who've been there.

Answer:

Hello there,



I'm sorry to hear about your furry friend's hip issue. Hip luxation, or dislocation, is a problem where the head of the femur slips out of the hip socket, and it can be quite uncomfortable for your pup. Often, this is due to trauma, arthritis, or underlying joint problems, which can be more common in our senior dogs.



At home, keep your dog comfortable by providing a soft bed in an accessible area to reduce unnecessary movement. Limiting their activity is crucial, so restrict jumping and running. Offering a supportive harness or sling can also help when your dog needs to move around.



Watch for signs of severe pain, such as yelping, extreme reluctance to move, or an abnormal leg position, which can indicate that immediate veterinary attention is needed. If your dog shows any signs of difficulty breathing, sudden lethargy, or changes in behavior, seek urgent care as these can indicate more severe complications.



I'd recommend booking a consult with our team on Dial A Vet. Through a video consult, we can assess the situation more thoroughly and discuss potential treatments, such as re-locating the hip or if surgery might be needed considering your dog's age and health condition. We're here to help guide you through the best options for your furry companion's recovery.



Take care!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 23, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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