Vital Feed

Last week, Vital Vet's Product Wizard received this inquiry "My dog has DM (degenerative myelopathy) and now has a sore on his hip bone from lying on it too much.  Is there a product that can protect that area?".  Here's what the Product Wizard had to say. A pressure sore (also known as a decubitus ulcer) can happen when dogs spend too much time lying on a hard...

Hip dysplasia. These two words terrify large and giant breed dog owners, but the truth is hip dysplasia can happen to any size or breed of dog. This painful condition can drastically reduce a dog’s quality of life and is difficult for owners to watch. The good news is that embracing responsible dog ownership and educating yourself about potential health conditions like...

Canine Hip Dysplasia typically develops because of an abnormally developed hip joint, but can also be caused by cartilage damage from a traumatic fracture. With cartilage damage or a hip joint that isn’t formed properly, over time the existing cartilage will lose its thickness and elasticity. This breakdown of the cartilage will eventually result in pain with any joint movement....

The investigation of a dog hip problem usually involves tests for a genetic condition called hip dysplasia (CHD), which is the abnormal functioning of the hips, and osteoarthritis. A veterinarian will do a physical examination which includes watching how your dog walks. Hip dysplasia in dogs is common in large breeds, but can be seen in smaller breeds such as...

Heavier mixed-breed dogs have higher health risks if neutered or spayed early, according to a new study from researchers at the University of California, Davis. The study found mixed-breed dogs weighing more than 44 pounds as adults are at higher risk for one or more joint disorders if neutered before 1 year of age. Dogs weighing up to 43 pounds had no...