Hip dysplasia, often abbreviated as HD, is a common joint problem in dogs. It can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. To get clarity, an HD examination is necessary. Such an examination does involve costs, which can vary considerably depending on the veterinarian and the situation. Many dog owners are shocked by the bill and wonder if insurance will cover it. In this blog post, we explain step by step what an HD examination entails, when it’s necessary, the average prices, and how you can save money. This way, you’ll be well-prepared and know what to expect.
What exactly is an HD examination?
A hip dysplasia examination involves taking x-rays of the dog’s hips. For these x-rays, the dog is often given light anesthesia or sedation, so it lies completely still. The veterinarian takes multiple x-rays and sends them to a specialist. Sometimes this is the Dutch Kennel Club (Raad van Beheer), for example, when the examination needs to be officially registered for breeding purposes. The purpose of this examination is to detect abnormalities in the hip joints. This allows the veterinarian to determine whether hip dysplasia is present and how severe the abnormality is. It provides clarity and helps to develop a plan for the future.
When is an HD examination necessary?
An HD examination isn’t routinely performed on all dogs. There are several situations where it’s recommended:
- In young dogs of breeds prone to HD, such as Labradors or German Shepherds.
- When a dog limps, becomes stiff after exertion or is in pain.
- For breeders who want to have a dog officially approved for breeding.
- For veterinarians who want to perform preventive checks on at-risk breeds.
In all these cases, an examination can be helpful for more clarity. It provides insight into your dog’s health and helps inform treatment or breeding decisions.
What are the costs of a HD examination in dogs?
The price of an HD examination depends on the clinic and your dog’s situation. On average, the cost is between €150 and €300. This often includes x-rays and sedation, but not always the official assessment. An official assessment usually involves additional costs, for example, if the Dutch Kennel Club (Raad van Beheer) needs to review the x-rays. Sometimes the bill can be higher if more anesthetic is needed or if additional testing is performed. It’s wise to request a quote from your veterinarian beforehand to avoid any surprises.
Factors that influence the price
The cost of an HD examination often varies per dog and veterinarian. This depends on several factors:
- The weight of the dog, because larger dogs require more anesthetic.
- The location of the clinic, in a city prices are often higher than in the countryside.
- The choice for official registration with the Board of Directors or only a medical assessment.
- Combining examinations, such as having an elbow examination performed at the same time.
All these factors influence the final bill. It’s therefore wise to ask beforehand what’s included and what additional costs may be incurred. This way, you can better estimate your actual costs.
Are the costs covered by dog insurance?
Dog insurance can sometimes cover part of the cost of an HD examination, but this varies by provider. Basic insurance often excludes examinations. Supplementary packages may provide reimbursement, especially if the examination is medically necessary due to symptoms. Preventive examinations are usually not covered unless explicitly stated in the policy. Therefore, it’s worth carefully reviewing the terms and conditions beforehand. If your dog has symptoms and you have a supplementary package, this could save you hundreds of euros. This way, you avoid having to pay the entire bill out of pocket.
Save smartly on HD research costs
An HD examination can be expensive, but there are ways to limit costs:
- Compare different vets and clinics, prices vary.
- Have multiple examinations performed at once, for example hips and elbows together.
- Choose a pet insurance that covers orthopedic examinations.
- Take out insurance when your dog is still young to avoid exclusions.
- Always ask for a clear price quote in advance.
By comparing carefully and planning smartly, you can significantly reduce costs. This way, you ensure your dog gets the care he needs without immediately running up a hefty bill.
Choose a dog insurance that suits you
The cost of an HD examination varies, but usually amounts to several hundred euros. This amount can be further increased by additional costs, such as anesthesia or an official assessment. Dog insurance can cover some of these costs, especially when there’s a medical necessity. By comparing carefully beforehand and taking out insurance in time, you can save a lot of money. This way, you won’t encounter any unpleasant financial surprises. Want to know which dog insurance will (partially) cover the cost of an HD examination? Compare the best dog insurance policies now and choose the package that suits you and your dog.
