Early hip health
Early hip health: JPS Surgery & PennHIP scoring
At Potton Vets, we offer advanced options for assessing and protecting your puppy’s long-term joint health—starting from just a few weeks of age. Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis (JPS) and PennHIP scoring are two complementary tools in the early detection and management of canine hip dysplasia.
What Is Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis (JPS)?
JPS is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can significantly reduce the severity of hip dysplasia—but timing is critical. It is most effective when performed in puppies are between 12 and 16 weeks of age, before major pelvic growth is complete.
- Encourages better development of the hip socket (acetabulum)
- Reduces future joint laxity
- Can prevent or greatly delay osteoarthritis
- Most affected in mild to moderately affected hips
What Is PennHIP Scoring?
JPS is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can significantly reduce the severity of hip dysplasia—but timing is critical. It is most effective when performed in puppies are between 12 and 16 weeks of age, before major pelvic growth is complete.
- Helps breeders select against hip dysplasia in puppies intended for breeding
- Measures hip laxity objectively and reliably
- Supports early detection – but comes slightly too late for JPS eligibility
How Potton Vets Can Help
- Orthopaedic screening at 12 weeks to assess JPS suitability
- JPS surgery carried out on-site by experienced clinicians
- PennHIP scoring from 16 weeks for breeders and high-risk cases
- Follow-up care, including K-Laser therapy to support joint health
- Client education and tailored advice for growing dogs
Who should consider JPS or PennHIP?
- Owners of Labradors, German Shepards, Golden retrievers, and other high-risk breeds
- Breeders looking for early screenings of litters
- Pet owners seeking to avoid future hip arthritis, especially in active dogs
Next steps:
- Book a screening exam at 12 weeks if you’re considering JPS
- Book a PennHIP assessment at 16 weeks if your puppy is intended for breeding
- Not sure which applies? Call us at 01767260007 or email us at clients@pottonvets.co.uk
Do you offer OFA hip and elbow screening?
We are also registered for the OFA (Orthopeaedic foundation of animals) hip and elbow dysplasia screening schemes.
| Purpose | Age | Main use | |
|---|---|---|---|
| JPS | Preventative surgical correction | 12-16 weeks | For at-risk dogs - NOT for breeding |
| PennHIP | Radiographic assessment of hip laxity | From 16 weeks of age | For breeding decisions or comfirmation of risk |
We’re here to help you give your dog the healthiest start possible.
If you would like to find out how potton vets can support you and your dog with expert hip screening, please call us on 01767 260007