Hip Displacia ???

Question
Hi,

We have a 5yr old GSD bitch. We got her when she was 4yrs she had been kept in a poor condition by her previous owner. She is a semi long haired and we had to cut all of her coat off to get rid of the matts, you could nt brush them out. She was kept in a really small pen and never walked, when we got her she could nt even walk to the top of our lane without being out of breath. Slowly we've built her up and she is so much happier and more healthy. The problem is her hips, lately she seems to be very stiff when she's moving around and certain ways you move her she yelps. Our vet has said it is her hips starting to wear. Would this have been caused by her being badly treated? Also the vet suggested giving her glucosamine. Could you advise me on how much she should have? And also any other supplement which may help her? She weighs 37kgs.

Answer
Here's a good website for that supplement and at least one another I believe your dog should be on. She could have dysplasia or it could be arthritis or several other things. You really need to have a vet look at her and diagnose her via xray and other tests to be sure your treatment regimine is correct. She should also be on 1500 mgs of vitamin C per day in three doses of 500 each, a good vitamin E supplement, as well as something for pain. A good quality premium food with no byproducts, no wheat, soy or corn is a must as well as regular exercise. Most supplements have the dosage directions on the bottle and will differ according to the mgs in each application. Follow your label directions for safe dosage. If your vet doesn't give you something for pain for your girl, you can give her baby asprin as needed.
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?articleid=670
http://www.dogbiz.com/dogs-grp7/germ-shep/german-shepherd-health-issues.html
Hopethese sites help and good luck with your baby,
Cindi