Osteochondrosis

                        ---------------

                  (osteochondritis dissecans)



                      General Information



Osteochondrosis is a disease of the cartilage of the shoulder,

hock or knee joints of young, fast-growing, large-breed dogs.

Lameness first appears at 6-9 months of age and may persist for

several weeks or months.  Lameness may also come and go over a

period of several weeks.  Males appear to be more commonly

affected.



While the exact cause is unknown, the conditions begin as

abnormal development of the deep layers of joint cartilage.  As

the condition progresses, a small piece of cartilage may become

detached from the underlying bone.



Diagnosis is by carefully evaluating the medical history and

performing thorough physical and x-ray examinations.



While many animals respond to rest and medication, some require

surgery to remove diseased fragments of cartilage.  Complete

recovery is expected in most cases.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  One or more follow-up x-ray examinations are necessary to

    evaluate your pet's healing.



2.  Diet:  Ordinarily no special is required.



3.  Exercise:  Severly restrict  exercise for ____ weeks,

    followed by limited exercise for ____ weeks.  Gradually

    resume normal exercise over a 4-week period.



4.  Surgical patients:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Check the incision daily.  Report any abnormalities

    to the doctor.



    ____Keep your pet on firm, padded bedding during recovery.



    ____Your pet will be evaluated for suture removal on 

    ____________________.



    ____Follow-up radiographs (x-rays) will be taken on

    ____________________.



        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * The incision is swollen, red or draining.



    * Your dog is feverish or depressed, or refuses to eat.



    * Your dog vomits.



    * Your dog develops lameness in another leg.