PennHIP Certification

The PennHIP Certification is a process used to assess the health of a dog’s hips and predict potential hip issues such as dysplasia and osteoarthritis. It’s widely recognized as the most reliable method for determining the future risk of hip joint problems. Here’s how it works:

Process:
Anesthesia or Sedation: The dog will need to be sedated or anesthetized to ensure that the hips are relaxed during the procedure, allowing for accurate radiographs.
Radiographs (X-rays): In addition to the typical hip-extended radiographs, a special device is used to position and hold the dog’s hips in a way that allows for detailed imaging.
Compression and Distraction Radiographs: The procedure uses a method that involves compressing and distracting the hips to measure the displacement of the femur. This provides precise data on the joint's tightness and potential instability.
Distraction Index (DI): The key measurement used in the PennHIP method is the Distraction Index (DI). This number predicts how likely a dog is to develop hip dysplasia or osteoarthritis in the future. A lower DI indicates tighter hips and a lower risk for hip issues, while a higher DI suggests looser hips and an increased risk.

Importance:
Predictive Value: The DI helps predict future problems, such as osteoarthritis, before they become clinically apparent.
Breeding: For breeders, this test ensures that only dogs with healthy hips are used for breeding, helping reduce the incidence of hip problems in future generations.

For more detailed information, or to begin the certification process, you can visit the official PennHIP website at www.pennhip.org.