ELBOW DYSPLASIA
If Your Dog's Gait is Changing, Check for Elbow DysplasiaDon't miss the video at the bottom where Dr. Karen Becker discusses four types of canine elbow joint problems that fall into the general category of “elbow dysplasia.” "Elbow dysplasia" is a catchall term used to describe one or more inherited developmental abnormalities in a dog's elbow joint.Generally speaking, elbow dysplasia means the development of arthritis in the elbow joint.Four Types...
Understanding Canine Gait: Significance of Analyzing Your Dog’s Gait
The manner, in which a dog ambulates or walks, is called “gait”. When a dog moves around the show ring, it is called “gaiting”. Gait is a complex topic and one that fascinates dog owners who value their pet’s mobility. Elements of canine gait analysis A physical therapist analyzes gait by breaking it down into the following elements: Level of independence Level of independence represents how independently the dog can...
Vet Advice: Relieving Your Dog's Arthritis
The easy run becomes a stiff walk; the jump to a favorite chair is no longer possible; lying down is accompanied by a deep groan. As our dogs age, things that were once second nature become an effort. Today, thanks to advances in veterinary medicine and companion animal care, many dogs are living to a ripe old age. On the downside, that longevity also increases the odds that they’ll suffer...
Pamper Your Pooch: The Benefits and Basics of Dog Massage
Massage is a healing art that has been practiced for hundreds of years. While it may seem like massage is a luxury reserved for elite athletes and spa attendees, massage can be a great form of preventive care for all, including your pet. If you’ve had a massage before, you probably remember feeling relaxed and perhaps a little sore, depending on the type of massage you received. There are numerous...
The Vet’s Guide on Wheelchairs for Dogs (9 Things to Know)
Today, mobility options for special-needs dogs have become widely available. If your dog is in need of temporary or permanent mobility assistance, a wide number of carts, walking sling harnesses and wheelchairs for dogs may be one of the answers, if not the only answer. In my practice I often see pets that require such support, but pet owners are sometimes confused which mobility assistance option is best for their...
Relieving Muscle Pain in the Dog’s Lower Back & Hips
There is one common issue that affects performance dogs as well as older dogs. It is sub-clinical pain or “aches” in the muscles of the lower back and/or muscles of the hips. Clinically these usually do not present themselves in the form of a physical problem or illness. These issues are not typically recognized by the owner/handler. I will usually pick them out while taking a history from the client....
Dog Sports 101: Flyball
Got a ball-crazy dog who’s smart and fast? Looking for a way to burn some of his energy and meet some people? Then we've got a sport for you! Flyball is a canine relay race in which teams of dogs take turns jumping hurdles and retrieving a tennis ball. But there's a twist: To get the tennis ball, each dog must pounce on a spring-loaded box that ejects the ball...
How to Teach a Dog to Swim
One of the best things about summer is cooling off at your local swimming spot, especially if you can have a swimming buddy! If you live near a dog-friendly lake or beach, or you have a backyard pool, you should definitely encourage your dog to join you for a swim. But before letting your pup jump in the deep end, you will need to give her a few basic...