Vancouver Animal Hospital
Healthy Dog Series

A lot of conditions requiring vet surgery are related to problems with the musculoskeletal system. 

 The musculoskeletal system support, protects, and moves the dog’s body. 

 The bones also store fats and minerals, and provide a site for red blood cell production.

 Signs of musculoskeletal problem include the following:

• Limping
• Pain
• Unusual gait
• Weakness
• Stiffness
• Swollen joints

Here we will describe in short some of the conditions when surgery for dogs may be the only way out.

Arthritis. Arthritis causes pain, lameness, and stiffness of the joints. It is not uncommon in old dogs. Large dogs are affected more often than small ones. Obesity aggravates the situation. Pain relievers, such as buffered aspirin, are often helpful. Moderate activity, soft bedding, and a warm, dry environment are recommended to sustain pliability in the joints.

Disk Disease. Normal disks act as shock-absorbing cushions between the vertebrae of the spine. When material...