Radiographic diagnosis of skeletal diseases among dogs in Lagos and Ogun States, Nigeria: A preliminary report

Abstract

Case records of dogs presented with signs of skeletal injuries at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State and Petcare Animal Hospital, Ikeja, Lagos between January, 2010 and December, 2011 were reviewed. Data recorded included breed, sex and age of the dogs, presenting clinical signs and the diagnosis made. Radiographs obtained from the dogs were also reviewed to check whether the diagnosis made was in agreement with the radiographic findings. The result of the study showed that a total of 37 dogs comprising 24 males (65%) and 13 females (35%) were presented with musculoskeletal injury during the period. The breeds most frequently affected were Alsatian (14) and Rottweiler (8). In all, the results showed a prevalence of 24% for osteoarthritis, fractures (27%) and coxo-femoral luxation (21.6%). Eighteen (49%) of the cases involved joints with coxo-femoral luxation and degenerative diseases of the hip joint (24%), being the most prevalent. It was, therefore, concluded that degenerative joint diseases of the hip are relatively common especially among the large breeds of dogs in Nigeria. Keywords: Musculoskeletal, injury, dogs, osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease.