05/04/2026
BREED SPOTLIGHT!
This weeks breed spotlight is also one our clinic employee's pets. Say hello to Bessie - the German Shepherd! She is owned by Caitlin.
Bessie just turned 1 year old in April. She is very spunky, intelligent, and high drive. It is a challenge to keep her brain and body occupied. Shepherds are a working breed, so they don't do well in low-activity homes. Not recieving the exercise and mental stimulation they need can result in un-desired behaviours, such as barking, anxiety, and destructive play.
German Shepherds are also prone to a condition called Hip Dysplasia. It is a skeletal condition where the hip joint develops incorrectly. It results in hip laxity, pain, and arthritis. It can appear in young puppies and older seniors.
Unfortunately for Bessie (and Caitlin!!) - she appears to be the "poster pup" for it. Screening rads were taken at 6 months old and the resulting xray of Bessie's hips is included here for your viewing pleasure. It can be managed with supplements, exercise, appropriate diet, and sometimes physical therapy and surgery.
Everyone say hi to "Stressy Bessie"!