Chattahoochee animal clinic monthly specials

Case of the Week for week of June 20, 2011

            We never cease to be surprised by the amazing pets and their owners that walk through the clinic doors on a daily basis here at Chattahoochee Animal Clinic.  We are very fortunate to be able to do what we love everyday and to use our skills and knowledge in order to help our furry friends feel better.  One of the patients that we were able to make a difference with is a 3 year old dog named Ella.  When she first came in, her mother explained to us that Ella was uncomfortable and having trouble running and playing in the yard. She was previously diagnosed with severe hip dysplasia which is the abnormal formation of the hip socket in dogs and leads to lameness, arthritis and discomfort in dogs. When a pet develops arthritis, the cartilage that acts as a cushion between adjacent bone and socket has decreased to the point that bone rubs against bone causing pain and discomfort. Ella's owner had informed us that she was already on pain medications for her hip dysplasia but she is still having trouble getting around. After Dr. Andy performed Ella's physical exam and reviewed her radiographs, he suggested that Ella start on a series of Adequan injections, in addition to the oral anti inflammatory and pain medications that she had been on previously. Adequan is an injectable glucosamine that is used to aid in slowing the rate at which arthritis develops in the joints by stimulating the body to produce cartilage and joint fluid in all joints. In addition the Adequan injections we also suggested that Ella also have her diet changed to a special veterinary formulated joint diet for pets.

Since Ella has been on the Adequan injections she has been able to run and play in the yard! When the initial series of injections were done, her mom was able to take her companion on long walks. Ella now comes in monthly for Adequan boosters and we are so happy to see her bounding through the door, pain free,  and acting like the young active dog that she really is!