What to expect when caring for a dog with hypertrophic osteodystrophy?

Question

I am thinking about bring a dog into my home who has hypertrohic osteodystrophy and I would just like to know what I am looking at bringing in a dog with this condition. He is only a year old at present. I have fostered or taken care of many special needs dogs with diabetes, blind, neurological issues but I do not have any exp with this condition. I know each dog is diff but I am just looking for a possible description of how this disease progresses and care needs of the dog. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 27 lbs

Sara Farmer, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hypertrophic osteodystrophy causes swelling and extreme pain of the joints along with a fever and general signs of illness. Most dogs do recover with rest, supportive care and heavy pain medication and do not have long term effects from the disease, but some dogs need to be hospitalized on IV drips to control the pain and a few dogs never seem to have their pain controlled. If the puppy is in extreme pain that cannot be controlled many owners elect euthanasia. You should be prepared for frequent veterinarian visits and daily pain medication. You may need to lift the dog to go outside or change bedding if he is too painful to walk.

What to expect when caring for a dog with hypertrophic osteodystrophy?

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