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 from a disk protrudes or extrudes into the spinal cord area, however, the dog can experience considerable neck or back pain and possible neurological dysfunction. Signs include a stiff neck, leg weakness, and a gradual reduction of activity. Prolonged or severe pressure on the spinal cord can lead to paralysis and loss of bladder and bowel control. See a veterinarian immediately if these signs occur. Dogs surgery may be required in this situation. 

Dislocation. Dislocated joints may make one limb appear shorter than its mate. Since most dislocations occur after a major trauma, the veterinarian will check for additional injuries and restore the joint. Sometimes this requires veterinary surgery.

Fractures. Most fractures result from trauma, such as being hit by a car. They are classified as closed or open. Open fractures are more serious because the ends of the bones break through the skin, causing extensive tissue damage and a potential for infection. All fractures need to be treated immediately by a vet surgeon. Most are treated with splints, cast, or internal fixation devices such as crews, pins, plates, or wires. This is usually done during a vet surgery.

Ruptured Cranial Cruciate Ligament. The knee joint contains two crossed ligaments. One of them, the cranial cruciate ligament, can tear abruptly during exercise. The dog suddenly begins limping in pain. If the rupture is not repaired, the knee may become arthritic. Full use of the leg is usually restored soon after vet surgery in Vancouver Animal Hospital is performed. 

Sprain. A sprain occurs when ligaments suddenly stretch or tear slightly during activity. Although the joint is swollen and painful, it may heal within three to four days with strict rest. If not, or if the situation worsens, a vet surgeon at our Vancouver Vet Clinic will be able to check the dog’s limb for a more serious problem such as a tear or rupture of the ligament.