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Question:

My dog got hit by a car and broke her right hind hip leg back in the summer 2018. I didn't have money to have a her hip replaced at the time. I now do have the 3-5k to get it replaced now. Is it too late to have the surgery now?

I'm really hoping for some advice or guidance here. My dog, Bella, was hit by a car back in the summer of 2018, and she ended up breaking her right hind leg. At the time, money was super tight, and I just couldn't afford the surgery for her hip. We've been managing with pain meds and as much comfort as I could provide, but it's been weighing heavily on me every day. Fast forward to now, I finally have the funds to get the surgery done, around 3-5k, but I’m worried if it’s too late or if she’s too old now for such a major surgery. Bella's spirits have been up and down since it happened, and I really want her to live out her years as pain-free as possible. Has anyone been in a similar situation? Can hip replacement still be an option after all this time? I’d really appreciate any advice or personal experiences you can share. Thanks so much for taking the time to read this.

Answer:

I'm really sorry to hear about your dog's accident and hope she's been managing okay since then. It's understandable to have financial concerns, and it's great that you're now able to consider surgical options for her.

Even though it's been a few years, it may not be too late for surgery. The main consideration is how your dog's hip has healed and adapted to the injury over time. It's possible that your dog has developed arthritis or compensatory issues affecting her mobility or quality of life. If she's still experiencing pain or difficulty moving, a hip replacement could potentially improve her comfort.

For now, you can support her by ensuring she's at a healthy weight, which lessens strain on her joints. Gentle exercises like controlled leash walks or swimming can also help maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility.

Watch for signs of discomfort such as limping, reluctance to move, or changes in behavior. These signs might indicate that ongoing pain or joint damage is present.

I recommend scheduling a video consult with a vet through Dial A Vet. They can assess her current condition and advise whether surgery is a good option at this stage. It's a positive step toward improving her wellbeing, and you'd get tailored advice for her specific needs.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 18, 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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