Treatment, Non-Surgical
When caught early, non-surgical treatment can be effective. This includes:
• Very strict bed-rest. This involves a dog not putting any weight onto the leg whatsoever. A crate is used to prevent standing or walking. For bathroom needs only, a Pug can be carried out of the crate and onto grass, but on a very short leash so that there are no attempts to walk. Bed rest may last 4 to 6 months, with x-rays taken periodically to see if the area is healing.
• NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Rimadyl) are often given to help with discomfort and inflammation. The veterinarian will carefully monitor the dosing.
• Corticosteroids such as prednisone may be given. Because of possible serious side effects including lowered immune system and increased thirst and/or appetite, this is usually only given short-term and dogs are gradually weaned off.
• A joint supplement like
Doggie Dailies Advanced Hip & Joint Supplement for Dogs
with combined glucosemine, chondroitin, MSM, and CoQ10 can help with pain and inflammation, help a Pug with mobility and plays a big role in helping to prevent arthritis which commonly occurs in dogs with this condition.
• An omega-3 EPA and DHA should be given. This can also control inflammation, help with mobility, and are used to help prevent arthritis. One of the easiest methods of providing this is via a liquid fish oil, which most dogs love.
Zesty Paw's Pure Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil
is an excellent choice.
• Additional treatment may involve laser therapy, acupuncture, massage, and/or non-weight bearing water therapy.
Treatment, Surgical
If non-surgical treatment options do not resolve pain issues or in very severe cases, surgery may be recommended. For larger dogs, total hip replacement is an option; however, smaller breeds like the Pug are usually not good candidates for this. Instead, surgery is performed to remove the head of the femur bone. Afterward, the body gradually repairs itself as tissue and muscle form in the area. In most cases, prognosis is very good; one-year post-surgery, many dogs are pain-free and there is improvement with mobility.