Prepare for unexpected vet bills
If your dog suffers from severe hip dysplasia, it may be time to purchase a doggy wheelchair. With such a device, you strap your dog's hindquarters onto the wheelchair and your pooch uses their front legs to pull the backside around. The front leg workout is a great exercise for a disabled pooch and will definitely burn some calories while maintaining your dog's cardiovascular system. Most dogs readily accept the canine wheelchair and even seem to appreciate the freedom that it provides. As with everything, the key to getting your four-legged friend to accept the device is to offer a combination of praise and treats.
Some veterinary offices that are geared towards rehabilitation of dogs that suffer from joint problems such as hip dysplasia offer underwater treadmills for the dogs to work out on. The dog walks in the water but the water's buoyancy uplifts the dog to take the pressure off the pooch's hips. Some owners might even want to invest in their own underwater treadmills. Many manufacturers offer them for at home use, although the product can be very costly. Treadmills are a great way to provide needed exercise for your fur baby while working your dog's joints to relieve inflammation and discomfort.