PennHIP

Understanding PennHIP: Advanced Hip Dysplasia Screening for Pets

PennHIP (Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program) is a specialized diagnostic technique designed to assess the risk of hip dysplasia in dogs. Unlike traditional methods, PennHIP provides a more accurate and earlier diagnosis, allowing for timely intervention and preventive care.

Developed at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, PennHIP uses a series of precise X-rays to evaluate the hip joint's laxity (looseness), which is a critical factor in predicting the development of hip dysplasia. This method is proven to be more reliable than standard hip screening techniques, such as the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) method, particularly in young dogs as early as 16 weeks of age.

Why is PennHIP Important?

Hip dysplasia is a common orthopedic condition in dogs, especially in large breeds. It occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to joint instability and, eventually, arthritis and pain. Early detection of this condition is crucial for managing or even preventing long-term damage.

Benefits of PennHIP Screening:

• Early Detection: Identifies the risk of hip dysplasia as early as 16 weeks of age.
• Improved Accuracy: Measures the degree of hip laxity, providing a more precise assessment compared to traditional methods.
• Breed-Specific Data: The PennHIP database allows veterinarians to compare your dog’s hip health to other dogs of the same breed.
• Informed Breeding Decisions: For breeders, PennHIP helps make informed choices to reduce the prevalence of hip dysplasia in future generations.

How Does PennHIP Work?

The PennHIP procedure involves three distinct X-ray views of the dog’s pelvis:

1. Distraction View: This shows how far the ball of the hip joint can be displaced from the socket, indicating joint laxity.
2. Compression View: This view measures how well the ball fits into the hip socket under normal conditions. 
3. Hip-Extended View: A standard image used to detect signs of arthritis or joint changes.

The combination of these views provides an accurate picture of your dog’s hip health. The key measurement obtained from PennHIP is the Distraction Index (DI), which reflects the degree of laxity in the hip joint. A higher DI means the dog is at greater risk of developing hip dysplasia.

Is PennHIP Right for My Dog?

PennHIP is particularly beneficial for:

• Breeders: Ensuring the genetic health of breeding dogs and making informed breeding decisions.
• Owners of Large Breeds: Breeds such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Rottweilers are more prone to hip dysplasia.
• Puppy Owners: Early screening can help identify dogs at risk, allowing for lifestyle changes or treatments that may reduce the severity of hip dysplasia later in life.

Even if your dog is not part of a high-risk group, PennHIP can still offer peace of mind by providing a comprehensive assessment of their joint health.

What Happens After the PennHIP Test?

Based on the results of the PennHIP screening, potential interventions may include:

• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on the hips.
• Joint Supplements: Products such as glucosamine and chondroitin may promote joint health.
• Exercise Management: Low-impact activities like swimming can help strengthen muscles without putting too much pressure on the joints.
• Surgical Options: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be recommended to prevent or manage the progression of hip dysplasia.

Our Rockdale Animal Hospital location proudly offers PennHIP as part of ACVN’s commitment to providing advanced diagnostic tools for your pet’s orthopedic health. Get started today—contact Rockdale Animal Hospital to schedule an appointment.