I’m completely overwhelmed and could really use some advice. My 6-year-old Lab, Max, who weighs just over 64 pounds, has been having a rough time lately. The vet says he's got severe hip dysplasia, and now we're trying to figure out what to do. The options I've been given are a Femoral Head Osteotomy (FHO) or a Total Hip Replacement. Both sound intense and I’m terrified of making the wrong choice. Max is still so playful and full of life, and I want him to be able to run around and be his happy self again. Has anyone else faced this dilemma? What did you choose and how did it turn out? Cost is a factor, but ultimately, I just want what’s best for my sweet boy. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much in advance.
Thanks for your question! Deciding between a Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) and a Total Hip Replacement (THR) for your Lab is important and depends on several factors. Both surgeries aim to relieve pain and improve mobility but have different applications and outcomes.
FHO involves removing the femoral head, which reduces pain by eliminating bone-on-bone contact. It’s often recommended for dogs less active or smaller in size than your Lab but can still be considered if THR isn’t an option. THR, on the other hand, replaces the entire hip joint and is typically favored for larger, active dogs. It tends to restore more natural function and may offer a quicker return to normal activity levels.
At home, you can help your dog by managing weight to reduce joint stress, providing soft bedding, and considering low-impact exercises such as swimming to maintain muscle mass.
Watch for signs of distress, like severe limping, pain when moving, or decreased appetite, which could indicate your dog's condition is worsening.
I recommend scheduling a video consult with Dial A Vet. We can discuss your Lab's specific situation, review x-rays, and help determine the best course of action together.
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