Ortocanis

Physiotherapy for dogs: when it is necessary to apply it

,

Physiotherapy is one of the recovery therapies that can bring the most benefits when there is an injury. But not just humans. Physiotherapy for dogs is also recommended so that these animals can improve their pathologies. In addition, in many cases, it gives them the extra point they lack to be able to recover completely.

The most appropriate physiotherapy technique for a dog will be different depending on the pathology it has. Among the main ones are, in addition to the classic manual therapy, there is the laser, water baths, magnetotherapy, electrical stimulation or therapy through the application of heat. But when is it necessary to use it?

When to use physiotherapy in dogs

Generally, physiotherapy in dogs is usually quite beneficial for animals that have undergone an operation. Especially, in those who have gone through an operation related to the bones, either of the limbs or of the spine. Generally, it is only necessary to apply it to adult dogs, since puppies usually recover quickly from their ailments.

Also for animals that have lost muscle mass noticeably in the joints of the legs. And also of the dogs that are getting older, more likely to suffer ailments and pains than the younger animals.

With physical therapy, which began to become popular about a decade ago, dogs can speed up recovery from an operation or their injuries. Also relieve chronic pathologies or wear and tear associated with age.

Thanks to different techniques, dogs that receive physiotherapy will be able to relieve their pains and see how the inflammation of their joints and areas affected by diseases is reduced . It will also improve the flexibility of the muscles and reduce the degree of atrophy of ligaments and tendons. And you’ll also see your recovery period shorten by about 30%.

Perro con veterinario

What are the physiotherapy sessions like for dogs?

Physiotherapy sessions for dogs are different depending on the type of treatment that should be applied to them. But in general, they follow common guidelines. Usually, each session lasts between 30-40 minutes and an hour. And depending on the condition of the animal and the estimated duration of treatment, it will have to receive sessions two or three times a week.

In addition to receiving therapy in the consultation of a specialist in canine physiotherapy, animals can also receive manual physiotherapy at home through massages. These sessions can be given by their owner, provided that they have previously received instructions to do so.

This option is the most indicated in case the dog needs a continuous treatment due to the physical wear and tear associated with age. Or when you do not allow the person who is going to apply the treatment to manipulate the area where you feel pain.

To try to avoid the latter, however, it is important that the owner of the dog is present when physiotherapy sessions are applied to the animal. This way you will have more confidence, be more relaxed, and block less access to the area where you feel pain.

/0 Comments/by
Ortocanis

Myositis in dogs: main causes, symptoms and treatment

, , ,

Myositis in dogs is one of the canine diseases that most affects their quality of life. Not only because it can affect your ability to move and perform your usual daily activity. Also because it is a very painful pathology that limits them a lot. It is an inflammation of one or more muscles that can affect different parts of the body. Its origin can be multiple, and can be due to wounds and muscle breaks as well as overexertion. But also to the effects of age.

It mainly affects short-haired pets, such as various breeds of dog. It can occur at any age, although it appears more frequently in adult and older dogs. There are three types: eosinophilic, rheumatic and purulent.

Miositis en perros: principales causas, síntomas y tratamiento

Causes and symptoms of myositis in dogs

Myositis in dogs can be due to several reasons. Among them, a muscle tear or a hematoma, both the product of a blow or a fall and excessive physical activity or a jump from a high height. But it can also appear after bearing an excessive load without the animal being prepared for it.

Sometimes it also occurs as a result of hypothermia that a dog can suffer when it is in an environment in which it is excessively cold and without being prepared for it. Then, the muscles have trouble moving, since the cold paralyzes them, and inflammation appears.

When it appears in an older dog, it is simply about the effects of age, which produce various pains and ailments. Or by parasites that nest in the muscles and other mobile areas of the animal’s organism, and cause displacements and erosions.

Obviously, one of the main symptoms that a dog has myositis, in addition to the difficulty of displacement if it affects the legs or the area of the joints and spine, is pain. Affected dogs will have so much pain that they usually won’t want to move (or won’t be able to), and they will moan in pain. They will also refuse to touch the affected area, and even caresses, even if they are soft.

The dog may feel better first thing in the morning after sleeping, but he will already appear tired. And the pain will increase as the day goes by. It is especially indicative of the presence of myositis pain in the area of the pelvis or shoulder, two of the points in which this ailment first manifests.

In addition, myositis presents other additional symptoms. Among them, the difficulties to pose one leg or several, the curved position of the dog’s back , etc. All together with an evident tension in the neck area, product of pain and difficulties in moving, and swelling of the affected area. It can also increase body temperature, and blood appears in the urine. And as a consequence of all this, come decay and loss of appetite.

Treatment of myositis in dogs

When myositis is detected early, and it is a mild form, it will be enough to take the animal to the veterinarian to put an appropriate treatment after finding the cause of the disease. It will usually be fully restored within a couple of weeks. But when it comes to severe myositis or its treatment is postponed, it may take longer to heal, and you may have sequelae.

Among these sequelae are the shortening of the affected muscles, muscle atrophy and the paralysis of one or more limbs. In these cases, in addition to a treatment to eliminate the pain and try to repair as much as possible the damage, the dog may need rehabilitation and various supports to be able to move. These range from a protector for the affected limbs to a wheelchair adapted for more severe cases involving paralysis of the hind legs.

/0 Comments/by
Ortocanis

Physiotherapy for animals: accelerates their rehabilitation

,

Animal physiotherapy is a group of therapies and techniques that help us accelerate the rehabilitation of our friends. Recommended for a wide variety of injuries and pathologies, it is becoming a great ally for recovery.

What is physiotherapy for animals

As for humans, physiotherapy for animals is a technique that serves both for the prevention of injuries and for the rehabilitation of them. In addition, due to the wide variety of options, it is able to treat different musculoskeletal pathologies.

It has been shown that physiotherapy in animals is able to cure various conditions. With the reduction of pain, inflammation and swelling, the body is more prepared to rebuild muscle strength and thus regain lost mobility. The recovery process is reduced when these therapies are used.

Physiotherapy for animals is aimed at three different categories. On the one hand, small animals, such as dogs and cats. Secondly, large animals, such as horses. Finally, exotic animals, such as those who participate in circuses or who live locked up in zoos, in which their physical condition is seriously damaged.

Benefits of physiotherapy for animals

Physiotherapy for animals should be carried out when indicated by a veterinarian. It is a complementary therapy that needs to be supervised. Some of the benefits obtained with this treatment are the following:

  • Improved quality of life when mobility has been lost due to some type of injury or degenerative disease

  • Slowing down of the processes that damage and degenerate the musculature and bone structure of the animal. Also helps treat muscle spasms

  • Increased performance and improved treatment for musculoskeletal injuries

  • Improved energy and vitality

  • Reduction of pain in muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints that have suffered ruptures and optimization of fracture repair

fisioterapia para animales

How are the physiotherapy sessions in animals

Physiotherapy in animals covers different treatments. The duration of these sessions is between an hour and an hour and a half depending on the technique used. These can be passive or active depending on the objective we have.

One of the techniques used is massage. In addition to reducing muscle tension and pain, endorphins are released and stress is reduced. Physiotherapy in animals not only improves physical condition, but also helps the emotional picture.

Hydrotherapy is also very common for those animals with joint problems. Since in water we do not carry the weight of the body, this type of physiotherapy for animals is indicated for those whose muscles or bone structure is weakened. The rehabilitator will be in charge of assessing the modality of the swim, the intensity and the time.

Laser therapy or ultrasound are also very often used for the treatment of pathologies. The intensity and depth at which you work will always depend on the degree of the disease and should always be supervised by a rehabilitator.

Physiotherapy for animals as part of rehabilitation can greatly improve our friend’s recovery process. In our store, you can find massagers and hot and cold therapies that will help you achieve these goals.

/0 Comments/by
Ortocanis

How to detect and treat elbow bursitis in dogs

, , ,

Elbow bursitis is a more frequent ailment than we think in dogs. Especially in those that have medium or large size and short fur. It is nothing more than an inflammation of the bursa in which the synovial fluid of certain joints is located. Specifically, those that have a gap between the bones they join. It is in it that this bag is located, which wraps around the joints. Almost all joints in the body of humans and animals are of this type, such as the knee or elbow. And it is in the latter that elbow bursitis is most often given in dogs.

Cómo detectar y tratar la bursitis de codo en los perros

Elbow bursitis in dogs: diagnosis and treatment

The appearance of bursitis in the elbow of a dog’s paw spontaneously is quite rare. It will usually appear after a strong blow to the area. Or after a light blow but that the animal is given continuously. When it occurs, it is quite evident that something happens to the animal. The joint begins to become inflamed and the animal has trouble walking and moving it. In addition, he begins to have pains.

Logically, the earlier it is detected, the less gravity it will reach. To do this, it is advisable to explore the dog’s paws with some frequency and, before any strange lump in its joints, go to a veterinarian. He will examine the animal and prescribe the most appropriate treatment.

This treatment will be different depending on several variables. Among them, the state of bursitis, as well as the presence or not of certain complications. For example, from an associated infection. Usually, it will be enough to put a bandage on the affected limb. You may also advise the use of an elbow orthosis to reduce it.

In cases where there is infection, it will also be treated with antibiotics. If it is advanced, it may need to be drained, using a fine needle. And if it is a severe bursitis, it will be necessary to perform a surgical intervention to reduce it.

How to avoid the appearance of bursitis?

To prevent as much as possible the appearance of bursitis, repetitive blows should be avoided. Against the abrupt and strong little can be done, but at least the others can be tried. For example, those that can occur when lying on the ground. To avoid them, a soft surface can be placed where the dog usually lies down.

Obviously, if it is done suddenly, the dog will reject it. Especially if you are an adult and not used to it. Therefore, the sooner you start getting used to sleeping on a cushion of those used as dog beds, the better. If possible, it should be started when the dog is still a puppy. This will make it easier. If you do not accept it, you can try it by placing a soft carpet where you are used to lying down.

It is also advisable to avoid, as far as possible, that the dog lies on the asphalt. Also on the ground if there is no grass or grass on it, since being hard and presenting an irregular surface, it can damage the elbows and lead to bursitis.

/0 Comments/by
Ortocanis

How to help the recovery of newly operated dogs

, , ,

Dogs that undergo an operation have to go through a period of rest and care to return to their normal lives. Therefore, the recovery of dogs requires special care that in many cases depends on the type of operation they have undergone.

Regardless of this, a series of guidelines to follow will have to be taken into account when the animal leaves the veterinarian and arrives home. This way you will be more comfortable and your recovery will be more bearable

Rodillera para perro

What to do to help dogs recover after an operation

While the dog is still in the veterinary clinic, it is advisable to accommodate its rest area according to its condition. It is convenient to keep it especially clean and ventilated. And as quiet as possible so that the animal can be relaxed and smooth.

During the first days, and depending on the severity of the operation, it is convenient that you do not do much exercise. You just have to go out to relieve yourself. And in these cases, you don’t have to let him walk away.

You also have to be very careful of your wound, and prevent it from licking it. Although in many cases, a dog licks a wound is good, if it has stitches it is not advisable. He could remove them ahead of time, and the wound would open. So, if the animal begins to lick the wound of the operation, everything possible must be done to avoid it.

The simplest way is to place a necklace around his head, shaped like an open bell. This collar, made of transparent plastic, prevents him from doing so, and is annoying for the dog. However, it is the best way to avoid problems with wounds.

You also have to remember to give him the medication that has been prescribed. And make him drink plenty of fluids. Above all, in the hours after the operation, so that it expels the anesthesia.

Wound cleaning

In addition to certain medication, the veterinarian will recommend to the owner of the operated dogs how to take care of the wound. Above all, how you have to clean it to avoid infections.

In general, an antiseptic solution should be used for this purpose two or three times a day. And carefully monitor the wound so that there are no problems. Of course, before any alteration that presents, you have to go to the veterinarian to rule out problems.

External aids in limb operations

Operations on the limbs are some of the most annoying for dogs. Not a few, in addition, take a long time to heal. And some even require specific rehabilitation so that the animal can regain mobility in it. As long as, of course, the wound is already completely closed and healed.

In these cases, the dog may need some kind of support or protector not only to avoid harming himself. Also to be able to have more firmness in the use of the affected leg. For example, in the case of bone fractures, it may be advisableto put a splint on it. Or simply, a protector or a support, which can be knee, carpal, tarsus, hip, etc. With them, the dog will feel safer when moving.

/2 Comments/by
Ortocanis

Arthritis in dogs: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

,

As they get older, dogs also have their ailments. Among them, arthritis, a disease suffered by about one in five dogs. Arthritis affects the joints and causes affected dogs to swell one or more legs. Arthritis in dogs will cause them to not only walk badly. It will also cause them a lot of pain.

This disease is degenerative and in many cases has no cure, but at least it can be treated so that it progresses as slowly as possible. Especially if it is diagnosed in its early stages. Then measures can be taken to alleviate its effects, and to improve the quality of life of the animal. But to achieve this, it is essential to detect its symptoms as soon as possible.

artritis en perros

Main symptoms of arthritis in dogs

Among the main symptoms of arthritis in dogs is the difficulty that those affected have to get up and lie down. They may also have more or less stiffness in the affected legs. Because they may have one or more affected.

In addition, they are reluctant to climb stairs, nor do they want to jump. They may also stop performing certain movements that they used to do habitually. In parallel, noises can be heard when bending the legs. And inflammation may be visible, making it easier to detect the disease.

It is normal for the dog to also have pains, which will cause him to complain. In any of these cases, it is advisable to consult with the veterinarian so that he can correctly diagnose the ailment.

It should also be borne in mind that arthritis in dogs does not only occur in animals of a certain age. It can also affect younger dogs. In these cases, arthritis is usually due to an injury, and also to a strong blow.

Treatment of arthritis in dogs

As we have mentioned, following certain guidelines and treatments, arthritis in dogs can be relieved and slowed down. Also largely avoid the pains it causes.

Generally, the first thing the veterinarian will do after the diagnosis of arthritis is to put a drug-based treatment. Among them there will be analgesics for pain, and also anti-inflammatories. Of course, the treatment will depend on each animal and also on the advanced nature of the disease.

It is also usually recommended that the dog take a food supplement, focused on the regeneration of cartilage that has suffered damage. Among them, those with Omega 3. In many cases they can relieve inflammation and cause the condition of the affected legs to improve. And in later cases, and if the arthritis is usually very advanced, the veterinarian may recommend an operation.

In addition to the treatments proposed by the veterinarian, certain measures can also be taken to facilitate the daily life of the dog. For example, you have to monitor your diet to prevent it from getting fat and overloading your joints. You should also try to get him to do some gentle exercise on a daily basis. For example, walking for 15 or 30 minutes every day. Swimming will also be good.

In case the disease causes pain to the dog, and difficulty moving, it is advisable to use protectors or orthoses on the elbows or knees of the affected paws. With them, the limb will be safer, and the dog will have less pain.

Ayudas para perros con artrosis

/0 Comments/by
Ortocanis

Everything you need to know about rehabilitation for dogs

, , ,

If your pet has an injury and you want to speed up his recovery, you may be interested in rehabilitation for dogs. Today we tell you everything you need to know about these treatments.

There is nothing worse than watching our best friend suffer. An injured dog is more inactive than usual. You can see the pain in the movements, how he wants to run and jump as always and the sadness that produces him not being able to do it. In those moments, you would do anything to help him get back to being healthy. Have you considered rehabilitation for dogs?

Todo lo que necesitas saber sobre la rehabilitación para perros

What is rehabilitation for dogs?

As with humans, rehabilitation for dogs consists of a series of exercises and treatments coordinated with a professional physiotherapist. These treatments are designed to relieve the pain of the injury, accelerate recovery and give guidelines and exercises to strengthen the affected part to recover normality. There are several types of rehabilitation therapy for dogs. Some are heat therapies, massages, exercises with pilates equipment, with circuits … Are you surprised? Rehabilitation treatments for dogs are very similar to those for humans. Because, after all, we are not so different from our four-legged friends.

What is rehabilitation for dogs?

You may be wondering, “Okay, that sounds good, I want my dog to recover as soon as possible. But does rehabilitation for dogs really work? What can a therapist offer my pet?” Well, you should know that rehabilitation for dogs has many benefits for your best friend.

  • Decreased pain. Thanks to massages and therapies such as heat, the muscles and bones of dogs are relieved and relaxed. In this way, dogs with ailments such as a herniated disc or other injuries can begin to strengthen their damaged parts again thanks to an activity that will no longer be so painful.
  • Delayed atrophy. The immobility of an injury ends up causing other associated problems, such as atrophy or weight gain. With dog rehabilitation you will keep your pet moving and fit. As soon as that injury heals, he will be ready to run again.
  • Re-education of the movement. Some physical or mental injuries seriously damage the mobility of our pets. Rehabilitation for dogs can activate damaged muscles, regain balance and improve coordination. There have even been cases of dogs with reduced mobility for, for example, neurological injuries that, with a lot of work and affection from their owner and the therapist, have been able to return to being independent and active.

As you can see, there are multiple benefits of rehabilitation for dogs. With the help of a professional therapist, you will be able to greatly improve your pet’s quality of life. Don’t let that injury stop him from leading a happy and active life. If your dog is suffering the aftermath of an injury, don’t hesitate. Contact a center specialized in rehabilitation for dogs and take care of your health from today.

/0 Comments/by
Ortocanis

The therapeutic properties of dog harness

, ,

Have you ever seen someone walking a dog carrying it in a therapeutic harness? Today we will explain the properties of the dog harness.

When talking about a dog harness, you’re probably thinking about that alternative restraint system to the collar. And yes, sure enough, that’s also a harness. But today we want to talk about a very special type of dog harness. Do you want to know why?

Because those harnesses allow dogs to regain their mobility. Thanks to those gadgets, our best friends can overcome injuries, speed up rehabilitation, and have all the joy of when they’re healthy. Do you want to know how?

arnes-perro-multifuncion-julius

Therapeutic dog harness: how does it work?

Dog harness with therapeutic properties works, so to speak, as a restraint for the dog. The owner passes under the part of the body that has damaged mobility (hind legs, front legs) so that the handles are up. In this way, a fastening effect is created. The owner carries part of the weight of the dog so that this is not an impediment.

This makes the dog feel lighter and regain some of its agility. Imagine, for example, a dog with a damaged hind leg. Every time he carries his weight, he hurts himself, so he stops exercising and in the end his whole body suffers. It is increasingly difficult for that dog to recover its good state of health.

With a dog harness for the hind legs, the owner of that dog offloads part of its own weight. That way, having nothing to pressure his injury, the dog can return to exercise the muscles without forcing it. Thanks to this, he will recover mobility much earlier and the days of the injury will be a distant memory.

Dogs that will not regain mobility

But there is another type of dog that can benefit from the dog harness: those who will never regain their mobility. Wheelchairs for dogs give them the possibility to move freely and have a dignified and relatively comfortable life, but, at the end of the day, they are linked to something that makes them uncomfortable and heavy.

arnes-de-soporte-para-perroA dog harness is a way to give you back that feeling of freedom from time to time. Thanks to the support of his sleep, the dog has the feeling of being able to run autonomously again on his four legs. You will see how your best friend is agitated with happiness by feeling free and light again to run and play for a while. A time that for him means everything.

Dogs need to move in order to lead a good life. It’s not just about the joy they feel when running and playing. Good physical activity is crucial to prevent injury, atrophy or contract diseases related to a sedentary lifestyle. A dog harness is a great way to give your pet a chance to live healthier and happier.

/0 Comments/by
Ortocanis

Herniated disc in dogs: tips to help your pet

, , ,

Herniated disc in dogs is a painful disease. Many owners want to help their pets, but they don’t know how. Is this your case? Read on and find out how to help your dog with his herniated disc.

If you have a dog with many years of life or of certain specific breeds (such as beagles or poodles), your pet may have suffered a herniated disc in dogs or is at risk of suffering from it. This disease is painful and can cause problems in mobility, paralysis in certain areas of your body, lack of control of the bladder …

Many dog owners suffer from seeing their best friends in that position, but they don’t know how to help them. In this article we want to give you some tips to make the recovery of herniated disc in dogs more bearable.

Hernia discal en perros: consejos para ayudar a tu mascota

Herniated Disc in Dogs: Tips to Help Your Dog

1. When in doubt, take your pet to the vet

Hernia in dogs can occur for several reasons. Sometimes they are degenerative herniated discs produced by age. And some dogs have a genetic tendency to contract them. But sometimes they are produced by activity. A jump or a bad fall can lead to a herniated disc in dogs. If you notice any kind of limping or pain in your dog, take him to the vet. Express your doubts and ask him to do a complete check-up on the dog. Prevention can prevent your dog from annoying and painful rehabilitation and even surgery.

2. Follow the program prescribed to your dog

Herniated discs in dogs have built-in rehabilitation that includes exercises and medication. This can be a nuisance to you as a dog owner, but remember. Your dog is a loyal friend and deserves the best. Follow the guidelines that the veterinarian prescribes you and you will see how your state of health improves. Some exercises you can do are treadmill rides, stimulation, application of heat to the affected area using an infrared lamp … The veterinarian is the expert, so you should ask him any questions about the treatment that may arise.

3. Complement the treatment with alternative methods

A word of warning: an alternative treatment is an adjunct to the therapy ordered by the veterinarian. In no case replace medication or rehabilitation exercises with an alternative therapy.

However, certain techniques have been shown to help relieve pets during their recovery from a herniated disc in dogs. Animal physiotherapy or electrotherapy can help accelerate the effects of veterinary therapy and make it less unpleasant for your dog.

4. Acquire specialized equipment

Some accessories, such as dog wheelchairs, thermal coats, special feeders or ramps to help you get on the sofa or car can make it easier to rehabilitate herniated discs in dogs.

Dogs are faithful creatures that are by our side when we need it most. Give him the same treatment. Help him when he faces the pains of the herniated disc in dogs and you will see how the joy of your pet returns to the home.

/0 Comments/by
Ortocanis

3 benefits of a wheelchair for dogs

, , , ,

If your dog has mobility problems or injuries, have you considered acquiring a wheelchair for dogs? Below we tell you the 3 benefits of acquiring a wheelchair for dogs.

You may have ever seen dogs in wheelchairs and felt some grief. Pets look small and helpless in dog wheelchairs. Their mobility is no longer the same, they can not jump and run as before and you have to adapt the house so that the dog can move comfortably.

However, for the dog a wheelchair is not a punishment. Quite the contrary. Think of it this way: the dog wheelchair is a device that allows animals that can no longer move comfortably to overcome pain and physical impairments and live a life as full and happy as possible.

If you think your pet needs a wheelchair for dogs and you suffer at the thought of acquiring one, don’t worry anymore. Today we want to tell you the 3 benefits of wheelchairs for dogs. Improve your pet’s life today and enjoy many years of joy with it.

{%ALT_TEXT%}

@happysevilla with your self-adjusting dog wheelchair

The 3 Benefits of Acquiring a Dog Wheelchair

1. Avoid pain

Imagine that your dog has an injury to one of his hind legs that makes him limp. The dog wheelchair allows you to run again and enjoy walks and socialize with other dogs without pain. Also, since you will no longer strain the injured dog’s paw, it will speed up your recovery. Before you know it, your best friend will be back in top form pulling on the leash when you take him out for a ride.

2. Regain mobility

Some dogs, especially older ones or those with a genetic tendency, suffer from herniated discs in dogs. One of the symptoms is loss of mobility and paralysis of some parts of the dog. This prevents them from leading a healthy and happy life. Wheelchairs for dogs allow them to dodge this impediment and return to enjoy all the fun of walks and socializing with other dogs. As with humans, the dog wheelchair can make your pet regain its independence and avoid the obstacles of poor mobility.

3. They are adaptable

Dog wheelchairs can adapt to different sizes, your dog’s needs and almost all terrains. Your dog will not have to give up the beach or the mountain and will be able to continue carrying the same train of life as before the injury.

The wheelchair for dogs is a complement that they do not lock in metal bundles. On the contrary. It allows them to run again and lead healthy, full lives, away from the sedentary lifestyle and unhappiness they would have without them. Do not think twice and acquire for your dog a wheelchair with which he can return to play and be happy.

/0 Comments/by