Client Education

Chronic Hip Dysplasia (CHD)

Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit together properly. Over time, this leads to pain, reduced mobility, and osteoarthritis. Some dogs show symptoms early in life, while others develop problems as they age.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Management

Many dogs with CHD can live comfortably with a combination of lifestyle changes and medical support.

• Weight management — keeping dogs lean is one of the most effective ways to reduce symptoms. Research shows 83% of overweight dogs with CHD develop osteoarthritis, versus only 50% of lean dogs — and lean dogs live 1.8 years longer on average.
• Medications — NSAIDs (Rimadyl, Deramaxx, Metacam, etc.) help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Supplements — glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and MSM may support joint health.
• Activity & therapies — moderate exercise, physical therapy, massage, and acupuncture help maintain mobility and comfort.

Surgical Options

• Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis (JPS) — a preventive procedure done very early (3–5 months old) that fuses part of the pelvis to improve hip coverage as the puppy grows. Works best when CHD is caught early.
• Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (TPO) — a preventive surgery for young dogs (typically 6–12 months old) that rotates the pelvis to improve how the femoral head fits the socket, helping slow or prevent arthritis.
• Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) — removes the femoral head and neck to create a “false joint.” Useful for chronic pain, severe arthritis, or when other surgeries aren’t ideal. Physical therapy after surgery is essential for best results.

TPLO Surgery

Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) is a surgical procedure that stabilizes a dog’s knee after a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tear by changing the slope of the tibial plateau so the knee no longer relies on the damaged ligament for stability. It’s the most reliable long-term option for medium to large and athletic dogs.

Signs TPLO May Be Needed

• Sudden or persistent rear-leg lameness
• Difficulty rising, jumping, or climbing stairs
• Pain, swelling, or a “click” in the knee

What to Expect

• Preoperative exam and bloodwork to confirm fitness for anesthesia
• Surgery time: typically 1–2 hours under general anesthesia
• Hospital stay: most patients remain 24–48 hours for pain control and monitoring

Recovery & Home Care

• Strict rest for the first 6–8 weeks (short leash walks only)
• Recheck X-rays at 6–8 weeks to confirm bone healing
• Physical therapy and gradual return to activity; full recovery often 3–6 months

Risks & Outcomes

Common risks include infection, implant irritation, delayed bone healing, and meniscal injury. TPLO generally provides better long-term comfort and mobility than non-surgical care for most medium and large dogs.

CCL Injury (Cranial Cruciate Ligament)

A CCL injury is the most common orthopedic problem in dogs and a leading cause of rear-leg lameness. The CCL is similar to the ACL in humans and helps stabilize the knee. When it’s damaged — partially or completely — the knee becomes painful and unstable, leading to arthritis and possible meniscal (cartilage) injury. Dogs of all ages, sizes, and activity levels can develop a CCL tear.

Why It Happens

• Excess body weight
• Sudden high-impact activity (jumping, sprinting)
• Poor conditioning (“weekend warrior” dogs)
• Genetics and bone structure
• Simple bad luck

Partial vs. Complete Tears

Partial tears: only some fibers are damaged, causing intermittent or mild lameness; these always progress to complete tears over time. Complete tears: all fibers are torn, causing significant pain and instability — dogs often carry the leg or barely touch the toes to the ground.

Symptoms

• Rear-leg limping or lameness
• Difficulty rising or jumping
• Toe-touching gait
• Swelling around the knee
• A “click” or “pop” if the meniscus is torn

Diagnosis

Diagnosed through a physical exam checking knee instability, X-rays to evaluate swelling and arthritis, sedation when needed, and arthroscopy in subtle or early cases.

Treatment

Once the CCL is damaged, the knee cannot stabilize itself, so surgery is the gold standard — it restores function, reduces pain, and slows arthritis. At Pet Menders we perform two stabilization techniques:

• TPLO — our most advanced and reliable option; changes knee biomechanics to eliminate the need for the CCL. Ideal for medium to large dogs, athletic dogs, and complete tears.
• Extra-Capsular Suture (ECS) — places a stabilizing suture outside the joint. Best for small dogs or cats; requires more rehabilitation and has less predictable long-term outcomes than TPLO.

Non-surgical management leads to chronic pain, arthritis, and ongoing instability. Prognosis depends on surgical technique, surgeon experience, body condition, owner compliance, and rehabilitation.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA), or degenerative joint disease, is the most common form of arthritis in companion animals — a progressive breakdown of joint cartilage that causes pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. OA affects roughly 20% of adult dogs in the U.S. and is common in cats as well. Once OA begins it cannot be reversed, but its effects can be managed.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Developmental disorders such as hip or elbow dysplasia
• Joint trauma or prior orthopedic injuries
• Acquired orthopedic conditions that alter joint mechanics
• Immune-mediated or infectious arthritis (less common)
• Age, obesity, and genetics

Typical Signs

• Stiffness, especially after rest or first thing in the morning
• Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or play
• Limping or altered gait that may come and go early on
• Muscle wasting around the affected joint
• Irritability, reduced activity, or hiding

Treatment Principles

OA is best managed with a multi-modal plan tailored to the pet and disease stage: weight management, controlled exercise, anti-inflammatory medications, chondroprotective supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin, DMOADs), and rehabilitation. Adjunct options include laser therapy, acupuncture, massage, and surgery for structural problems or severe pain.

Owner Checklist

• Keep your pet lean
• Follow the prescribed exercise/rehab plan consistently
• Give medications and supplements exactly as directed
• Watch for worsening lameness, appetite loss, or behavior changes
• Attend regular rechecks and imaging

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition where the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin. Insulin helps move glucose (blood sugar) into the body’s cells for energy. When insulin is low, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, causing high blood sugar and making pets feel sick.

Common Symptoms

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Weight loss
• Weakness or lethargy
• Increased or decreased appetite
• Depression
• Abdominal discomfort
• Sudden blindness from cataracts (especially in dogs)

If you notice several of these signs, a veterinary exam and bloodwork are recommended.

Treatment

Diabetes can’t be cured, but it can be successfully managed with daily insulin injections, dietary management, and consistent exercise routines. Most pets live happy, comfortable lives once their diabetes is controlled.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Obesity
• Genetics
• Poor diet
• Hormonal imbalances
• Stress
• Certain medications

Sex also plays a role: female dogs are affected twice as often as males, while male cats are more commonly affected than females.

Parvovirus

Canine parvovirus (parvo) is one of the most serious infectious diseases in dogs, especially puppies. It attacks the intestinal tract and can cause severe, sometimes life-threatening diarrhea and dehydration. The virus is extremely tough and can survive for long periods on floors, bowls, bedding, and other surfaces.

Symptoms

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea (often bloody)
• Lethargy or depression
• Loss of appetite
• Rapid dehydration

Puppies lose their protective maternal antibodies around 14–20 weeks of age, which is why this age group is especially vulnerable.

How It Spreads

Parvo spreads through infected feces and contaminated environments. Because the virus resists heat, drying, and many disinfectants, it can be difficult to eliminate completely from homes or kennels.

Treatment

There is no medication that kills parvovirus directly — treatment supports the dog while its immune system fights the infection: IV fluids for dehydration, anti-nausea medications, deworming if hookworms are present, and careful reintroduction of food once vomiting stops. Dogs that begin eating again usually have a good chance of recovery.

Prevention

Vaccination is the best protection. Puppies need a full vaccine series, with the final dose given at 16 weeks of age — vaccine failures usually happen when doses are given too early, before maternal antibodies fade. Even with proper vaccination there’s always a small window of susceptibility, so avoid high-risk environments (dog parks, pet stores, boarding) until the series is complete.

Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis (HGE)

HGE causes sudden, severe vomiting and bloody diarrhea in dogs. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but bacteria such as Clostridium perfringens and certain immune reactions may play a role. HGE can affect any dog, though small breeds like miniature schnauzers, dachshunds, poodles, and Yorkies may be more prone.

Symptoms

• Bloody vomiting
• Bloody diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Rapid dehydration

Because symptoms appear quickly and can become severe, prompt veterinary care is essential.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and bloodwork (elevated hematocrit, normal or low total protein), plus X-rays or fecal testing to rule out other causes. Treatment requires aggressive supportive care — IV fluids, antibiotics, anti-nausea medications, and 1–3 days of hospital monitoring. Severe cases may need coagulation panels, EKGs, or plasma/albumin transfusions.

Home Care After Hospitalization

• Continue prescribed antibiotics
• Feed a bland diet for several days
• Gradually transition back to regular food over 24–48 hours
• Monitor for vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, or breathing changes

Bland Diet Recipe

Boil hamburger or chicken until fully cooked, rinse to remove excess fat, cook white or brown rice, and mix 2/3 meat with 1/3 rice. A small amount of low-fat cottage cheese is optional.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, usually because the gland becomes enlarged from a benign (non-cancerous) growth. Although rare in dogs, it is very common in older cats and is one of the most frequent diseases diagnosed in cats over 10 years old.

Common Symptoms

• Weight loss
• Increased appetite
• Restlessness or hyperactivity
• Behavioral changes
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Increased thirst or urination
• Patchy hair loss or unkempt coat
• Excessive grooming
• Aggression or irritability

Treatment Options

• Medication (Methimazole) — controls hormone levels; doesn’t cure the disease; affordable; short- or long-term use.
• Radioactive Iodine (I-131) — the most effective long-term treatment; a simple injection that destroys overactive thyroid tissue while sparing surrounding tissue; offered at nearby specialty facilities by referral.
• Surgery — removes the affected thyroid gland; more invasive and costly, with a higher chance of recurrence; usually reserved for cases where medication or I-131 aren’t options.

Hyperthyroidism cannot be prevented, but early diagnosis leads to better outcomes — annual exams and bloodwork (including a T4 thyroid test) help catch it before symptoms become severe.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, which can slow down many body systems. It’s most common in middle-aged to older dogs.

Common Symptoms

• Low energy or lethargy
• Mental dullness
• Exercise intolerance
• Weight gain
• Hair loss (especially on the tail)
• Dry or oily skin
• Darkening of the skin
• Slow heart rate
• Seizures

Treatment

Easy to manage with daily synthetic thyroid hormone (levothyroxine/T4), usually once or twice a day. Energy and alertness often improve within a week; skin and coat changes may take several months. Medication is lifelong, and yearly blood tests keep the dosage correct. With proper treatment, most dogs live normal, healthy lives.

Ear Infection

Ear infections (otitis) are common in dogs and cats and can cause itching, discomfort, and odor. Most infections are short-term and respond well to treatment, but some pets develop chronic or recurring problems that need deeper investigation.

Common Causes

• Allergies (the #1 cause of chronic ear infections)
• Moisture from swimming or bathing
• Parasites
• Foreign material (grass, debris)
• Hormonal or immune-related conditions

Symptoms to Watch For

• Head shaking
• Scratching at the ears
• Redness or swelling
• Odor
• Discharge
• Sensitivity when ears are touched

How We Treat It

Simple infections often respond to topical ear drops or ointments for 2–3 weeks. Chronic or severe infections may need oral antibiotics or antifungals, anti-inflammatory medication (like prednisone), longer treatment courses, and addressing the underlying allergy or condition.

Prevention & Home Care

• Check your pet’s ears weekly
• Keep ears clean and dry
• Use routine cleaning if your pet swims or has floppy ears
• Treat underlying allergies or skin issues

If your pet has a ruptured eardrum, certain cleaners or medications can be harmful — always get a veterinary exam before treating at home.

Allergies

What it is: Pets can react to things in their environment, food, or medications.

Common symptoms: Itching, chewing paws, watery eyes, coughing, sneezing, skin redness.

When to worry: Symptoms lasting more than 48 hours, hair loss, sores, ear infections, or repeated vomiting.

What we do: Exam, skin/ear evaluation, allergy testing if needed, medication to relieve symptoms.

At-home help: Hypoallergenic diet trial, regular bathing, avoiding known triggers.

Prevention: Year-round flea control, clean bedding, avoid scented products.

Allergic Reactions

Pets can develop allergic reactions to many things — bee stings, vaccines, insect bites, or even unknown triggers. Reactions can appear suddenly and may include facial swelling, hives or raised bumps, itchiness, and vomiting or diarrhea.

When It’s an Emergency

Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are rare but dangerous. Signs include difficulty breathing, weakness or collapse, pale gums, and low blood pressure. If your pet shows any of these, go to the nearest veterinary hospital immediately.

Vaccine Reactions

If your pet has had a vaccine reaction before, your veterinarian may avoid certain vaccines, pre-treat with antihistamines, or adjust the vaccination schedule. Always tell any new veterinarian about past vaccine reactions.

How We Help

Treatment depends on severity and may include antihistamines, steroids, and monitoring for breathing or blood pressure changes. Most mild reactions resolve quickly with proper care.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are one of the most important parts of preventive care. They protect dogs and cats from serious, contagious, and sometimes life-threatening diseases, and help safeguard other pets and people in the community — some diseases are even zoonotic (can spread to humans).

Core Vaccines for Dogs

• Rabies — fatal viral disease; required by law
• Distemper — affects respiratory, GI, and nervous systems
• Parvovirus — highly contagious; severe vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration
• Adenovirus (Hepatitis) — causes liver and respiratory disease

Lifestyle Vaccines for Dogs

• Leptospirosis (zoonotic)
• Bordetella (Kennel Cough) — required for boarding/grooming/social dogs
• Canine Influenza

Core Vaccines for Cats

• Rabies — required by law
• FVRCP Combo — Feline Herpesvirus, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia

Lifestyle Vaccine for Cats

• FeLV (Feline Leukemia) — essential for kittens; recommended for outdoor cats/multi-cat households

Puppy & Kitten Schedule

Start at 6–8 weeks; boosters every 3–4 weeks until 16–20 weeks; rabies given once at the appropriate age, then the adult booster schedule.

Adult Booster Schedule

Rabies every 1–3 years (per state law/vaccine type); core vaccines every 1–3 years; lifestyle vaccines typically yearly, sometimes every 6 months.

After Vaccination

Mild, short-term effects can include soreness at the injection site, mild lethargy, or decreased appetite for 12–24 hours. Call us immediately for facial swelling, hives, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or collapse — these may indicate a rare allergic reaction.

Fleas, Ticks & Heartworm

Fleas, ticks, and heartworm are common parasites that can cause itching, infection, disease, and even life-threatening problems in dogs and cats. Regular prevention, early detection, and prompt treatment keep pets healthy and protect the household.

Fleas

Fleas bite and feed on blood, causing intense itching, hair loss, skin infections, and allergic reactions — heavy infestations can cause anemia in puppies and kittens. Even indoor pets can get fleas. Watch for scratching, hair loss, red/scabby skin, and “flea dirt” (tiny black specks). Use veterinarian-recommended monthly preventives year-round, treat the home/yard when needed, and wash bedding frequently.

Ticks

Ticks attach and feed on blood and can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. Pets pick them up in tall grass, wooded areas, and leaf litter. Watch for a visible tick, localized redness/swelling, lameness, fever, or lethargy. Use vet-approved preventives and check pets after outdoor time; remove attached ticks promptly.

Heartworm

Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes; larvae mature into adult worms living in the heart and lungs, which can be severe or fatal. Dogs are highly susceptible; cats can be infected too but show different, harder-to-diagnose signs. Watch for coughing, exercise intolerance, weight loss, or difficulty breathing. Monthly preventives are highly effective when given year-round or seasonally, and dogs should be tested before starting or restarting prevention, with annual testing recommended.

Intestinal Parasites

Intestinal parasites are common in both dogs and cats. They can cause digestive upset, weight loss, anemia, and in some cases spread to people. Routine testing and year-round prevention keep pets healthy and protect your household.

Common Types

• Roundworms — very common in puppies/kittens; vomiting, diarrhea, pot-bellied appearance; can spread to people
• Hookworms — feed on blood; can cause anemia, weakness, black/tarry stool
• Whipworms — chronic diarrhea, weight loss, colon inflammation
• Tapeworms — seen as small “rice-like” segments near the tail; usually from fleas or hunting
• Giardia & Coccidia — microscopic parasites causing diarrhea, especially in young/stressed pets

Signs to Watch For

• Diarrhea or soft stool
• Vomiting
• Weight loss or poor appetite
• Bloated abdomen (especially in young animals)
• Scooting or licking at the rear
• Visible worms or segments

Some pets show no symptoms at all, which is why routine testing matters.

Prevention & Protecting Your Family

Routine fecal exams (at least yearly; more often for puppies/kittens), monthly parasite preventives, good hygiene (pick up stool promptly, keep litterboxes clean), flea control, and avoiding wildlife exposure. Since some parasites are zoonotic, wash hands after handling pets or cleaning litterboxes, and maintain year-round prevention.

Pets hide pain differently. Dogs often show it outwardly; cats tend to be subtle. Watch for changes from your pet’s normal behavior — even small shifts can mean discomfort.

Common Signs in Both Cats & Dogs

• Changes in activity level — less interest in play, walks, or usual routines
• Reluctance to move — hesitating to jump, climb stairs, or get into the car
• Stiffness or limping — worse after rest or first thing in the morning
• Changes in posture or gait — favoring one side, a hunched back, or a guarded stance
• Reduced appetite or weight loss
• Behavioral changes — irritability, hiding, decreased interaction, or clinginess
• Grooming changes — over-grooming a painful area (cats) or poor coat condition (dogs)
• Vocalization — whimpering, yelping, growling, or increased meowing
• Sleep changes — sleeping more or restless sleep
• Toileting changes — accidents in the house, straining, or reluctance to use the litterbox or go outside

Signs More Common in Dogs

• Obvious limping or favoring a limb
• Reluctance to go for walks or decreased endurance
• Aggression when touched
• Panting or restlessness, even at rest

Signs More Common in Cats

• Hiding or withdrawal
• Less grooming or patchy coat — or excessive licking of one spot
• Changes in litterbox habits
• Subtle posture changes — tucked abdomen, flattened ears, hunched stance
• Quiet vocal changes — softer or more frequent meows

How to Track Pain at Home

• Watch daily routines for changes in willingness to jump, climb, play, or walk
• Keep a pain/activity diary for 1–2 weeks (appetite, mobility, mood, sleep, bathroom habits)
• Compare sides for muscle loss or swelling
• Try a short, gentle walk and note if your pet slows, limps, or seems reluctant
• Check for localized swelling, heat, or sensitivity — stop if your pet shows pain or aggression

Preoperative Instructions

Pre-surgical bloodwork

We require blood tests to check organ function and overall health before anesthesia, ideally 1–2 weeks before surgery (acceptable up to 4 weeks prior). If not done at consultation, bring your pet to us or have your regular vet draw blood beforehand.

Diet & weight management

Reduced activity after surgery can cause weight gain and slow recovery — begin a modest calorie reduction before surgery and continue as advised.

Confinement & rehabilitation

Many procedures need a period of restricted activity. Set up a quiet, comfortable confinement area and consider crate training beforehand.

Morning of Surgery

• Fasting: no food after midnight; water is allowed overnight and the morning of surgery
• Medications: give morning meds unless instructed otherwise (a small treat is fine, or we can administer at the hospital)
• Aspirin: stop at least 7 days before surgery
• Arrival: please bring your pet between 8:00–8:30 AM

Postoperative Instructions

Confinement & Activity (6–8 weeks)

Strict confinement for the first 6–8 weeks to protect bone healing. Allowed activities only: indoors under immediate owner control on carpeted surfaces (no play), in a travel kennel, or outside on a leash for bathroom breaks under direct supervision. No prolonged walks or free activity until healing is confirmed by X-rays.

Feeding & Weight

Resume normal food and water the day after surgery. During confinement, feed 50% of the normal portion to prevent excess weight that could hinder recovery.

Pain, Swelling & Problems

Expect the worst inflammation in the first 2–3 days. If your pet becomes acutely sore, has sharp yelps, or changes limb use, contact us immediately.

Incision Care & Bandages

Prevent licking the incision — licking can cause chewing, suture removal, or infection. Keep bandages and splints clean and dry. Persistent licking, bad odor, or chewing warrants an urgent evaluation.

Follow-Up Schedule

10–14 days post-op for a soft tissue check and suture removal if needed; 6–8 weeks post-op for X-rays to confirm bone healing. After X-ray confirmation, we’ll outline a gradual, more active rehabilitation plan.

Passive Range of Motion (PROM) Therapy

Gently flex and extend the operated joint in slow, rhythmic motions — 10–15 reps per session, 3–5 sessions daily during early rehab, moving only to the point of minor discomfort. Apply a cold compress for 3–5 minutes after PROM (typically the first 2–4 days) to reduce swelling. PROM matters most in the first 10–14 days, then tapers off as advised.

Recovery & Home Care

The first 10–14 days are the most important for a smooth, safe recovery.

First 24–48 Hours

Mild grogginess, lower appetite, slight whining or restlessness, and temporary disorientation are all normal as anesthesia wears off, and should improve over the next day or two.

Activity Restriction

No running, jumping, or rough play; no stairs unless necessary; leash walks only for bathroom breaks; use a crate, small room, or gated area to limit movement.

Incision Care

Check the incision twice daily for redness, swelling, discharge, or gaps. Keep it clean and dry, don’t bathe your pet until cleared, and don’t apply ointments unless instructed.

E-Collar (Cone) Use

Your pet must wear the cone at all times until fully healed — even one lick can cause infection or reopen the incision. Remove only under direct supervision and replace immediately if damaged.

Feeding & Medications

Offer a small meal once your pet is fully awake; if vomiting occurs, pause food a few hours and try again. Give all medications exactly as prescribed, complete the full antibiotic course, and never give human medications (Tylenol, Advil, aspirin, etc.).

Pain Management

Watch for whining, restlessness, hiding, or panting when not hot or stressed — call us if pain seems uncontrolled.

When to Contact Us Immediately

• Heavy bleeding or incision opening
• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep water down
• Severe lethargy, collapse, or difficulty breathing
• Foul odor, pus, or rapidly increasing redness/swelling
• Shaking, fever, or signs of infection
• Sudden behavior changes or signs of severe pain

Quick Home Care Checklist

• Keep pet calm and confined
• Use cone at all times
• Check incision twice daily
• Give medications as directed
• Leash-only bathroom breaks
• No baths until cleared
• Attend the follow-up appointment