BRACE YOURSELF: The Importance of Custom Bracing for Dogs
In veterinary medicine, custom splints and braces are becoming standard practice. Why is it important to provide custom supports for dogs? First, let's take a look at us - humans. There are hundreds of different types of splints and braces made for humans. They come in various ready-made, off-the-shelf sizes (usually from XS to XXL sizes) and are made for practically every part of the body (see image below). These off-the-shelf splints and braces...
Great Trick for Using Pawz for Anti-Slip
Dog Boots The trouble with using dog boots to provide indoor traction is that a dog's paw is essentially round, and booties (or anything that is not really snug and form-fitting) tends to spin on the dog's paws. Then, you end up having the "traction" tread material on the top of the foot and the slick non-treaded material at the bottom of the foot. The other issue is that most dog boots are not...
Renaissance Man, Flyball Legend, STAAR Conference Rock Star
A Vital Vet Publication: We're deeply affected when we lose one of "our own". This article is written in memory of Cyclone, one such soulful creature; he was a renaissance man, a flyball legend, and the sweetest pup you'd ever meet. We had the pleasure of spending time with Cyclone at the STAAR Conference throughout the years. He was one of our "Steady Eddies" as a dog volunteer. He was such a...
He's 13 Years Old And Has Had 16 Surgeries But Benny Remains ‘THE HAPPIEST PUP EVER’
A VITAL VET Publication: "Options" - that's what pet parents need. What are the options for my pet? How do I know what to choose? Here at Vital Vet, that's what we provide - OPTIONS. Need a sling or harness? How do I keep my dog safe at home? What are my options for providing him with traction or protection? Is there a rehab professional that can help me at...
FUNdamentals K9 Conditioning Course by Jana Gams, DVM, CCRP
MASSIVE SHOUT OUT! It's an honor and pleasure to officially introduce Dr. Jana Gams to the Vital Vet community!! "Think Before You Throw" and "Is Sloppy Sitting Something to Worry About?", are two of Vital Vet's MOST POPULAR articles - both written by Dr. Jana Gams. Check them out if you haven't done so yet. Many of you are asking for more from Dr. Gams. Well, here it is: Dr. Jana Gams is...
THINK BEFORE YOU THROW
Repetitive ball throwing: facts and alternatives Not sure what might be bad about repetitive ball throwing? Read and learn some more appropriate ways of exercising and bonding with your dog. “A tired dog is a good dog” - perhaps, but we are really happy that more and more dog owners are becoming aware of a potentially bad outcome from repetitively playing toss & fetch with a ball. Not only can...
Wraps and Braces for Carpal and Tarsal Injuries
The excerpt below is from an article by Drs. Gayle Jaeger and Sherman Canapp on carpal and tarsal injuries in dogs first seen in Clean Run Magazine in 2008. Though it's an older article, it is well-organized and still relevant. Carpal (front leg wrist) and tarsal (back leg ankle) injuries are common in larger and more active dogs but can occur in any dog and breed. Canine athletes are more prone to these injuries...
Cohesive Bandage Can Be Used For Traction and To Reduce Scuffing
Slipping or scuffing on hardwood or tile floors? Cohesive bandage (e.g., VetWrap) works well to reduce slippage and scuffing when used properly. In this video, Vital Vet expert Ilaria Borghese demonstrates how to apply VetWrap safely and for maximum impact. VetWrap Link Author: Ilaria Borghese, MS, MA, OT, Thera-Paw, Inc., STAAR Conference, Vital Vet Other Related Publications Traction for Weak, Unstable, or Injured Pets Custom Bracing for Pets with Injuries...