He Can Barely Walk but Can't Be Stopped - Moozie's Story
Moozie (AKA “Asher”) was 4 years old when he was diagnosed with a debilitating neurological condition; he wasn't expected to survive much more than a year. Now, nearly 6 years later, Moozie shows no signs of stopping (the video at the end of this article proves his determination). Moozie is nearly blind, needs tons of help to walk, can't feed himself or drink on his own. But here he is chewing on a big yellow ball,...
Shoulder Injuries in Dogs
Dogs can contort their bodies in incredible ways; they are amazing athletes! It's no wonder that injuries happen when their shoulders get bent or turned the wrong way. The Shoulder Joint Shoulder joints in humans are easy to find and palpate (feel) since they lie on the outer sides of the body. The shoulder joint of the dog is more elusive; it lies against their front chest and can be hard to feel, especially in...
Help Painful, Weak Dogs Get Moving Again: Leda's Story
This awesome article was sent to us by Jeff VerHoef of Canine Mobility who worked with "Leda" the Bouvier. He was interviewed by Kate Poss, the founder and writer for This is Whidbey. We've talked about how physical therapy, massage, braces, and anti-knuckling devices can help dogs regain mobility. Now read Leda's story about overcoming severe arthritis and spinal stroke (FCE). It may "take a village" but they're soooo worth it! Reliable resources for treating...
Iliopsoas Strain in Dogs
Whether it’s humans or dogs, the iliopsoas muscles come up a lot in treatment of low back, pelvic, and hip pain. This can range from muscle tightness to muscle injury, with associated levels of lameness. The Iliopsoas The iliopsoas includes the iliacus and psoas muscles. Together they are the main hip flexors, meaning that they bring the knees to the chest. The iliopsoas muscle originates from the low back (psoas)...
Video Consults Help Your Pet And Save You Time And Money
If you're like me, your dog is right next to you. Take a moment to look at them now. Have they been a little "off" lately? Slowing down or having more trouble getting around? Maybe you're looking for exercises to help them recover better? Or some braces or aids to help them move better? Maybe you don't know if there's something wrong or even what questions to ask. If you've already followed your veterinarian's...
Electrostimulation Helps Increase Muscle & Decrease Pain
WHAT IS ELECTROSTIMULATION FOR PETS? Electrostimulation is using an electrical impulse to a nerve within a muscle to help decrease pain, increase muscle strength, or both. Hang on a minute…..I’m picturing Frankenstein stuff….. When delivered appropriately and with proper training, electrostimulation should be ONLY a positive experience, particularly in our pets who can’t understand why we would do something painful even if it was helpful. Stimulation devices all have multiple...
Virtual Consults for Pets - Rehab, Conditioning, and Mobility Issues
Many of you are becoming familiar with telemedicine so that you can connect with your veterinarian for a virtual appointment. A Vital Vet Pet Video Consultation is different - it's a totally new concept in virtual consultation. Here's how: You do not have to be a client of the Vital Vet Pet Consultants Our Pet consultants are the best of the best - some names you might even recognize since they helped develop the certification...
Farrah: Hind Limb Lameness and Obesity Case Study
Farrah: Hind limb lameness and obesity case study Background Farrah, a 1.5 y FS Labrador, presented with a 6-month history of left hind limb lameness and more recent history of right hind limb lameness. She had possibly sustained an injury to her left tarsus when she was a puppy. Functional Limitations: Jumping up (bed and car), going downstairs, getting up from lying down Current medications: Rimadyl 150 mg, once a...