BVA/KC hip & elbow scores

BVA/KC Hip & Elbow Scoring is a scheme run by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and The Kennel Club (KC) to assess joint health in dogs. It uses X-rays (insert X-ray service) to evaluate the hip and elbow joints to identify signs of hip and elbow dysplasia.

During the assessment, your dog will undergo a series of carefully positioned hip and elbow X-rays (insert X-ray service). These images are then submitted to the BVA/KC panel for independent veterinary specialist review and scoring. To ensure accurate positioning, your dog will be sedated or given a light anaesthetic. Your dog’s comfort, safety, and vital signs will be closely monitored throughout the procedure by our veterinary team.

The scoring provides an objective measure of your dog’s joint health. Lower scores generally indicate healthier joints, while higher scores may suggest an increased risk of joint problems. The results can help guide you when making decisions around breeding, exercise, weight management, and preventative care.

BVA/KC Hip & Elbow Scoring is commonly recommended before breeding to reduce the risk of passing joint conditions to future generations. It can also be useful for understanding your dog’s long-term mobility and overall health, providing valuable insight to support your dog’s well-being throughout their life.