Edgerton Veterinary Clinic

Keeping your pet healthy and happy.

PennHIP
 

PennHIP is a science based, hip-screening procedure capable of estimating the susceptibility for Canine Hip Dysplasia in dogs as young as 16 weeks of age. The PennHIP method has been shown to have distinct advantages over other popular screening methods that are performed after the dog is two years of age or older.

 
For more detailed information, please visit the PennHIP website at:
 
PennHIP FAQ’s
 
Why does Edgerton Veterinary Clinic recommend PennHIP?
 
The perfect screening method for Canine Hip Dysplasia does not exist. PennHIP is simply the most accurate and the only science based method currently in use. PennHIP provides accurate information about hip laxity at an early age, while there may still be time to employ preventive strategies to delay the onset of osteoarthritis. 
 
Is the PennHIP procedure safe for my dog?
 
Yes, the procedure requires a short period of sedation; in most cases is no longer than 30 minutes. The sedative is reversed with medication as soon as the procedure is completed. Mild distraction of the hips during the procedure does not cause any problem for the patient.
 
How old should my dog be when the PennHIP procedure is performed?
 
The PennHIP screening method is accurate in dogs as young as 16 weeks of age. The accuracy improves slightly in dogs that have attained an age of 20-24 weeks. For this reason, we recommend that the procedure be performed in dogs 5-6 months old. But PennHIP screening may be done at any age.
 
What if I want PennHIP and OFA screening for my dog?
 
In the online tour, you will note that a standard extended hip radiograph is part of the PennHIP procedure. If your dog is 2 years old at the time of PennHIP (or at least one year old for preliminary OFA evaluation), we will provide you with a copy of the radiograph needed and fill out all the paper work for OFA submission if you choose to submit them.
 
If my dog’s hips show obvious signs of Dysplasia, must I submit them for evaluation?
 
Yes, the PennHIP database requires that all studies be submitted regardless of the findings. This insures an accurate determination of the incidence of hip dysplasia in the breed population; this is extremely important to the science behind the method. As with the OFA database you will have the opportunity to share PennHIP information with others through the PennHIP website if you wish. Sharing of your dog’s results is not mandatory.
 
How much does PennHIP cost?
 
Edgerton Veterinary Clinic currently charges $250 for the entire procedure including a pre-sedation physical exam, sedative medication, PennHIP radiographs, submission fees and hospital boarding. When results of the analysis arrive (usually 1-2 weeks or less), we will consult with you to answer any questions you may have at no additional fee.
And for those who wish to submit films for OFA scoring, an extended hip view will be included along with the completed OFA submission form (an additional $30 fee is required by OFA).