The value of a second opinion

[Gina Heitz <brier@oregonsbest.com>]

With Sue's permission:

Late last week Sue called me and told me that Sophie (silver from the 
Casino litter) was diagnosed by her vet as mild to moderately hip 
dysplastic.  (She is not)  However because of the history with this litter 
neither Sue or I really had reason to doubt her vet.  Sue agreed to drop 
Sophie' films by Aloha for Dr. Doug to get a look at them and give his 
opinion.  In the conversation Sue and I briefly discussed options, 
management, surgery, cost etc. and I headed off to Olympia for the weekend 
to dog shows with Sophie heavy on my mind.  Sue and Chris spent the weekend 
in a state of shock, loss, and despair, trying to figure out where to go 
next in the event that Sophie would require surgery.

Monday morning Dr. Doug looked at the films and called Sue with his report 
of NORMAL hip conformation probably would pass OFA with a good.  No signs 
of arthritis or DJD and her hips were well seated.  The films were done 
well, positioning was great the quality of the film was perfect as in the 
technical work was done correctly, a very clear picture.

So anyway as the title of this post says a second opinion is sometimes a 
good choice.  But really my opinion, for anyone who is close enough to 
Aloha who has not had their dog x-rayed yet please consider just going to 
Dr. Doug first....   If for no other reason, to save me another 10 gray 
hairs!  I know not funny but intended to be...

All is well that ends well in this case but while on the subject, I know 
it's hard to believe but there are vets out there too that will recommend 
surgery for dogs who really do not require surgery.

Hope Everyone is well!

Gina