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Boots for dogs: to prevent and heal injuries

Surely on some occasion you have seen a dog with a kind of shoes that protected its legs. It is not a whim of its owner so that the animal looks like it is wearing shoes. Surely there is a reason for you to wear dog boots . A poorly healed wound, an injury to a foot pad, etc.

But they can also be used preventively to avoid injuries and illnesses . Especially when taking a dog to the mountains or for a walk through rough terrain. Or when there are low temperatures, snow or ice. The use of shoes or boots for dogs protects their paws and avoids problems derived from stepping on them.

Boots for dogs: as an aid in healing injuries

When dogs suffer certain types of injuries, they feel pain when supporting the injured paw. In addition, especially if it is a wound caused by a sharp object , the paw pads are often injured. Therefore, for a certain time they feel pain when stepping on . And the paws are more sensitive when stepping on certain surfaces and can be hurt again.

Protecting the injured leg with a boot will prevent many situations in which it could be injured again. The boots can be high and low, with a rubber sole or with a vibram type. In the latter case, it will help you move comfortably (and with better grip) on all types of surfaces.

The boots are indicated for dogs that have some mobility problems . In these cases, they will have to wear boots on all their legs. They are not uncomfortable and are easy to put on and take off, so they are perfect for them. And by wearing them, you will improve your grip level. Precisely, dogs that have mobility problems, mainly due to age or a serious injury, often have stability problems . And they slip.

With the boots they will be able to grip better , they will walk with more comfort and they will avoid falls. In these cases, the most recommended, especially if they move on smooth surfaces, are those with rubber soles .

Boots on uneven or snowy surfaces

Dog boots will also be very comfortable for the animal if we put them on in certain situations. For example, to walk through forests or uneven surfaces . Also for climbs to the mountain. Or when it is very cold or snowing. With them, their legs will not suffer from finding stones or other strange elements. Nor by the action of the cold.

Frost and snowfall leave the ground in conditions that are not exactly the most suitable for dog paws. The cold when stepping on them can dry out their pads , which in many cases can open. This leads to injuries to their legs, and consequent mobility problems. Boots with vibram-type soles have more grip than rubber ones and are more appropriate for snow. However, they can be used on all types of terrain.

04/01/2019/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Causes of a limp in young dogs

Animal welfare, injuries, Pathologies

Lameness, although we usually relate it to older dogs or that are close to it, the truth is that it can appear at any age. However, it can be due to specific pathologies. Here we leave you the causes of lameness in young dogs.

Why does lameness appear in young dogs?

Lameness is a problem that occurs in dogs very frequently. The origin of this can be found in the bones, cartilage, joints and even the hip. To determine its cause, we will not only have to take into account the age of the animal and its lifestyle, but we will also have to value the presence of certain pathologies or diseases.

Although in many cases the cause can be the same at any age, today we are going to talk about the causes of lameness in young dogs. However, whenever we observe problems walking, it is convenient to go to the veterinarian.

canine panoaestheitis

This inflammatory-type disease is one of the causes of lameness in young dogs. Its origin is found in the bones, especially the humerus. It occurs mainly in large and giant breeds due to their own growth.

Symptoms include weakness and a limp that can alternatively affect both legs. For the diagnosis, an X-ray will be performed that will allow us to see the affected parts inside the bone. It usually disappears when the animal reaches adulthood, so only anti-inflammatories are administered.

Avascular necrosis in the femur

This cause of lameness in young dogs also occurs in humans. The head of the femur is disappearing for reasons that are not fully known. It most often affects small dog breeds, although it also affects some large ones. Usually between four and six weeks of age.

To diagnose it, it will be necessary to observe lameness in young dogs with support and a progressive increase in pain. The kneecap of that leg will be elevated from its normal position. Initially it may be mild but in one or two months it will intensify. An X-ray makes it possible to verify it. The treatment is surgical, and consists of joining the tibia with a band and nails.

hypertrophic osteodystrophy

The third cause of lameness in young dogs comes from feeding. Imbalances in the diet cause abnormal bone proliferation to occur. The limbs swell and fever also appears. It is very painful.

To treat this lameness in young dogs, which are usually large breeds, the diet is modified and anti-inflammatories are administered. It can take months for the problem to be fixed.

Osteochondritis dissecans

The cause of this lameness in young dogs is a crack in the cartilage of the joint. By losing the liquid that is inside, it touches the bone and inflammation occurs. It can appear on the knee, elbow or shoulder, among others. Surgical intervention is usually necessary, in addition to using protections, such as chondroprotectors .

Patella dislocation

The last of the causes of lameness in young dogs is dislocation. Both due to a blow and genetics, the patella moves out of place. It is more frequent in small breeds and the symptomatology is jumping when walking. By palpating the joint it can be easily detected. Depending on the severity of the lameness in young dogs, surgery may be required. If it is mild, anti-inflammatories and chondroprotectors will suffice.

And so far the causes of lameness in young dogs. Remember that blows, accidents or excessive activity can also cause it. In any case, the veterinarian will be the one who can tell us the reason and its treatment.

31/12/2018/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

When is a thermal coat for dogs necessary?

Animal welfare

For some time now, it has become more and more common to find dogs on the street with a kind of coat made of a fabric similar to that of a raincoat and of a certain thickness. It is a thermal coat . With them, the animal keeps its joints warm and does not get cold in winter. Also, if it rains and the coat can be waterproof and they won’t get wet either. In this way, the chances of the animal suffering greater joint pain or catching a cold are reduced.

Of course, as popular as these types of protectors are, it is not recommended that they be used by all dog breeds. Depending on their size, type of hair and skin, dogs retain more or less heat. Therefore, a breed that conserves body heat better will not need a protector unless the climate in which it lives is exceptionally cold, it is elderly or suffers from osteoarthritis or some other joint ailment. On the other hand, it will be needed by those who rapidly lose internal heat, breeds more typical of hot climates or who suffer from some joint ailment.

Dogs that do need a coat in winter

Short-haired dogs are much more likely to lose body heat . Also those with long but fine hair . So it’s not just Boxers , Dalmatians , Chihuahuas , or Greyhounds that need coats when it’s cold. Also the Maltese puppies or the Shi-Tzu . Otherwise, it is common for the cold to affect them, and that they even tremble, contract respiratory diseases or aggravate the ailments in the case of elderly dogs or those with osteoarthritis.

In these cases, it is advisable to put an open term on them to go outside when it is cold. Generally, there are countless models available in many sizes , in order to adapt to the size of each animal. There are even those specifically designed for certain breeds , such as greyhounds . With them they will not only reduce joint ailments but they will not be cold, they will remain dry when it rains and they will be able to enjoy winter walks to the fullest.

They are also increasingly used in dogs that play sports since keeping them warm before a physical activity will prevent injuries and improve their performance.

Breeds that do not need a thermal coat for dogs

In general, large dogs with thick fur and thick, long hair do not require additional protection from the cold. They are breeds such as the German Shepherd , the Mastiff , the Husky or the Alaskan Malamute . Among his ancestors are the wolves, and his fur still bears quite a resemblance to them. These and other breeds often have a rough coat . Even pointed and tough. It is the layer of hair that protrudes.

Beneath it is another close to the skin, made up of millions of very fine hairs that intertwine with each other. In this way they form a layer that insulates the skin . Thanks to it, the heat takes longer to escape from your body. It is also more insulated from the rains, and if the animal gets wet, the water does not penetrate its skin as easily. Therefore, it is not necessary to put a protective thermal coat on them.

In these cases, what needs to be done for dogs to maintain their body heat is to take proper care of their skin and hair . Unlike other breeds, they do not need to be washed very often. Otherwise, your protection layer may be damaged. What is necessary is to brush them with some frequency to remove dirt and loose hairs that entangle the rest.

24/12/2018/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Sphincter problems in dogs with paralysis

Animal welfare, Pathologies

Motor disability in dogs usually leads to other pathologies. Above all, if the problems are in the hind legs, which causes serious mobility difficulties . This causes more problems for them. Among them are ulcers due to lack of movement and bone problems due to forced postures and displacements. Both problems are visible to the naked eye, so it is common to act on them quickly. Others are not so obvious, such as toilet training problems .

For the first, special care must be provided to the animal’s skin. In the case of bone problems, an adapted wheelchair is the solution. Not only because the animal will be able to move with almost total normality. Also because you will be able to maintain your natural posture. This will prevent bone deformities and spinal problems. But with toilet training problems, since they’re not that obvious, extra precautions need to be taken. What can be done to alleviate the problems that this entails?

Problems of sphincters in dogs: hygiene above all

When a dog with mobility problems does not control its sphincters, among other things, it will stop controlling its urine. Also feces. Therefore it is necessary to avoid that their hind legs and the back of their spine are in contact with the droppings . It will be necessary, therefore, extreme hygiene in these areas.

Many dog owners often put diapers on them to avoid escapes or hygiene problems at home. Placing underpads in your bed to collect urine may also work. If the dog is female, special washable panties can be placed on it to prevent dripping. If it’s male, a special anti-drip girdle .

If the dog wears diapers, they must be removed every day for a few hours to avoid skin problems in the areas covered by the diaper. In addition, they must be changed with certain frequency . Generally, it’s good to take them off when you take them out for a walk. But you also have to keep their buttocks very clean. To do this, in addition to cleaning it with soap and water, you can use wet wipes or gauze soaked in physiological serum.

urine infections

When a dog does not have mobility in its hind legs, it can suffer from diseases derived from its condition. Among them, various infections . Of these, the most frequent are those of urine . This is because, due to lack of mobility, your bladder does not empty completely . Therefore, there is always fluid retained inside it, which leads to infection.

To avoid greater evils for dogs with paralysis, you have to be attentive to the appearance of their urine . If changes in color or smell are seen in it, they may be signs of a urine infection. In these cases it is necessary, more than advisable, to consult with the veterinarian to examine the animal.

It will be the one who decides the most appropriate treatment for him. He may even decide to empty his bladder , a delicate procedure that should only be carried out by veterinarians. In cases of recurrent infections, he may advise regular bladder emptying to try to reduce the number of infections.

12/12/2018/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

How to take care of the skin of a disabled dog

Animal welfare

The skin serves as protection against external aggressions, both to humans and to other animals. When it comes to a dog whose mobility is reduced, it tends to suffer more due to continuous rubbing in certain areas of its body. To prevent it from being damaged, we are going to learn how we can take care of the skin of a disabled dog.

Why does the skin get irritated?

Whether we are talking about dogs with disabilities or one that is not, the skin not only serves to protect their internal structure, but it is also the means they have to relate to what surrounds them.

When we spend a lot of time in the same position or there is something that regularly rubs against a specific area of the skin, ulcers and irritation can appear. If we do not take care of the skin, these wounds can worsen, to the point of exposing the bone and becoming infected.

To prevent this from happening, we must learn to care for the skin of a disabled dog. It is simply a matter of increasing precautions and paying attention to this delicate part of the body. Although it is resistant, it also needs protection.

How can we take care of the skin of a disabled dog?

The first thing we must do to care for the skin of a disabled dog is to protect it. This point consists of looking for those elements that do not cause injuries to your body. Specifically, in those parts that are more susceptible to wounds or ulcerations, such as the hips, elbows or ankles.

The harness that we use must have protections inside, so that the part that is in contact with the skin is padded and soft. In our gallery you can see what these types of harness are like. In the event that there is already a wound, we must protect it well to prevent any part of them from rubbing it.

Carrying open wounds is also a risk for other reasons. Flies or other insects can deposit larvae, causing the wound to become infected. Depending on the dog’s disability, you will have more trouble driving them away. If we use diapers, we must remove them when going outside, so the wounds can breathe.

Secondly, to take care of the skin of a disabled dog, we must regularly modify its posture. The parts that stand out the most, and that we mentioned earlier, are more susceptible to injuries, so we must check them frequently. In addition to using creams that help heal, we can move the animal’s limbs as part of physiotherapy at home.

Finally, to take care of the skin of a disabled dog, we must be careful with drag. The legs without mobility will always be supported against the ground, and when moving, it can cause injuries. In addition to wearing protective coats, we can purchase wheelchairs to help you get around.

Taking care of the skin of a disabled dog does not have to be a complicated task. In the same way that we hydrate our skin and avoid damaging it, we will have to do it with our little friend. And if you have doubts, you can contact us and we will help you in any way we can.

05/12/2018/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Why is my dog limping?

injuries, Pathologies

It is quite common to see a dog limp . Like humans, a bad step or a blow can lead them to suffer pain. And as a consequence to limp for a few minutes. But when time passes and they don’t stop doing it, or when they start to limp on one leg for no apparent reason, it’s a good idea to find the causes.

To do this, the first thing is to check the leg on the outside. It may simply be that the animal has stuck something in the area of the paw pads and is hurting it when walking. In these cases, it will suffice to carefully remove it and disinfect the affected area. Sometimes you can remove it yourself. But other times, what is wrong will not be so obvious, and it will be necessary to go to the vet to examine the dog.

-“My dog limps”: let’s see the possible causes.

Aside from getting something stuck in the leg, or suffering from an injury, the most common cause of a dog limping is a joint injury . Or in the muscles and bones. In many of these cases, it will be revealed by some swelling in the leg, or an inflammation in the joints. But other times there will be no external sign that gives it away. In these cases, the dog starts to limp suddenly. Many times, it does so after practicing physical activity of a certain intensity. Among the most common injuries are ligament tears and dislocations , as well as fractures .

The effects of age can also cause a dog to limp due to conditions such as osteoarthritis . In these cases, the veterinarian must prepare a plan for the dog to get better. It can also be caused by dysplasia , either of the hip or elbow. In this case, the hip or elbow joint becomes inflamed, and does not fit properly in its rightful place. In many cases it may require surgery to correct.

Also, in young dogs, it can be caused by something similar to the pain children experience in their legs as they grow. It is more common in large dogs, and disappears only after a few weeks. It is called panosteitis and can pass from one leg to another. In any case, it is much less worrying than the previous causes.

What to do if your dog limps

The first thing to do when faced with lameness in a dog is to go to the vet. He will examine you to determine the causes of the ailment and will give you the appropriate treatment. In some cases, anti-inflammatories will suffice and a splint, orthosis or harness may suffice. But in other cases surgery will be advisable to correct the problem.

In other cases, the animal will have to perform various rehabilitation exercises. And you may need some help to improve your ambulation . For example, a joint protector, which will vary depending on the joint and leg affected. These neoprene protectors will increase the working temperature of the joint, accelerating metabolism and recovery while reducing pain and inflammation.

In any case, it is always advisable to follow the recommendations of the veterinarian before placing one.

aids for limping dogs

Toni Fernandez

Director of Ortocanis

26/11/2018/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Reasons why a dog has trouble walking

Animal welfare, injuries, most commented, Pathologies

There are several factors why a dog may have trouble walking. When evaluating a pathology, we must take into account, among other things, the age of the animal, since on some occasions, such as in elderly dogs, the main reason may be age itself. But what other causes can there be?

Causes of walking problems

Depending on the rhythm of life that our dog leads, it is possible that he will experience localized pain for a few days. Just as it happens to us, excessive exercise can cause tiredness and weakness. This will cause us to have trouble walking.

However, when the pain lasts for more than a couple of days, we should go to the vet. There they will make an assessment and proceed with the diagnosis. Some of the most common causes of walking problems are the following.

injuries

In addition to an unseen fracture or torn tendon, walking problems can also be caused by a back or spinal cord injury. This usually appears due to trauma, a stroke or damage to the discs.

When a dog’s spinal cord or spine is inflamed or injured, the hind legs may show signs of weakness or instability. This will inevitably cause problems walking. If our dog has not suffered an accident but is in this situation, we must go to the vet as soon as possible.

degenerative myelopathy

This disease is another reason why a dog may have trouble walking. Especially in adult dogs , the fibers that send signals to the brain for leg movement are gradually being destroyed. The cause is the deterioration of the spinal cord itself.

Dogs with myelopathy do not experience pain, but the disease directly affects mobility. The legs lose strength and the animal is not able to walk normally or stand for long. Currently there is no cure for this disease, but physiotherapy and holistic medicine can relieve symptoms.

Diabetes

Females are more prone to diabetes, which can also cause walking problems. Although some breeds such as Goldens, German Shepherds or Schnauzers are more prone, it can affect anyone.

To avoid diabetes, it is advisable not to give dogs foods rich in sugar. Since they are capable of eating anything, it is very common for many owners to share their food. But we must not forget that some apparently harmless foods that they also like are toxic to them. To determine if diabetes is the cause of walking problems, an analysis is enough.

osteoarthritis

Arthritis and osteoarthritis are other reasons why dogs can have trouble walking. Adult dogs and large breeds are usually the ones who suffer the most from this disease. It usually affects the hip and knee joints, deteriorating cushioning and causing pain.

Some medications in addition to physical therapy can relieve symptoms. Thus, our friend will be able to maintain an optimal quality of life and reduce his problems walking.

The causes of walking problems are wide and varied. In any case, if we observe that our dog spends more than two days without being able to move normally, it is best to go to the vet. The sooner we detect the problem, the sooner we can fix it.

19/11/2018/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

What can cause paralysis in dogs?

injuries, most commented, Pathologies, Treatments

Paralysis in dogs

, which makes the animal unable to move its hind legs, front legs, or four legs, has various origins. It can be caused by trauma, but also by illness. It can also be gradual or sudden, be irreversible, or offer possibilities for improvement or healing.

Wheelchair for Ortocanis dog

In any case, it will be necessary to provide the animal with all the necessary care to facilitate its recovery. For this, it is essential to know the cause of paralysis to apply the most appropriate treatment. We could not only alleviate your symptoms, but reverse them in certain cases, and if not possible, provide you with the highest possible quality of life .

Main causes of paralysis in dogs

Fundamentally, paralysis in dogs is caused by either trauma or disease. This can be congenital or infectious. Among the congenital diseases that cause paralysis in dogs, especially in the hind limbs, is a degenerative pathology of the intervertebral discs. Dogs that suffer from it, usually due to age, lose mobility, since the membrane that surrounds their spinal cord progressively decomposes.

As for infectious diseases that cause paralysis , there are two that are particularly dangerous. They are rabies and distemper. On the other hand, the animal experiencing paralysis may have a tumor somewhere on its body that affects its mobility. For example, if you have one in your spine, it can affect your limbs.

In addition, the dog may suffer paralysis from an injury to the neck or spinal cord. Generally, these types of injuries are the result of a hard blow or an accident. In these cases, the paralysis is usually permanent.

On many occasions the dog does not want to move because it has pain. It is common to find cases of ligament injuries or osteoarthritis where the dog avoids using the affected limb. We would not talk about a paralysis itself but we must know these cases since they are more frequent. Normally we will see that the animal complains if we manipulate the affected area. In these cases the veterinarian could recommend the use of an
orthosis
.

In another order of things, paralysis in dogs can also be psychological, as a result of shock. In these cases, since there are no spinal cord injuries, the paralysis will be temporary. It can also cause the intake of spoiled food, contaminated with botulinum toxin. It can even be caused by the bite of an insect, since there are animals that with a bite can cause paralysis in dogs. This is the case of some families of ticks.

Symptoms and treatment of paralysis in dogs

In addition to being unable to walk, paralysis in dogs can have other symptoms. For example, difficulties getting up. It can also be an indicator that the animal cannot urinate, or that it has trouble controlling urine. In the latter case, it will drip constantly. This can also happen to the animal when defecating. In addition, you may also walk in pain or as if you are dizzy.

In these cases, it is best to take the animal to the veterinarian to examine it and decide the best way to help it. In case you suffer from incontinence apart from paralysis, it will be necessary to keep it as clean as possible. This will prevent the animal from having infections (and undesirable odors). In these cases you can use special
diapers
for dogs and protective coats.

On the other hand, we must ensure that he rests in the most comfortable way possible. For this it is advisable to use an orthopedic bed for dogs. In addition to providing them with better rest, these beds are designed to distribute the weight of the animal, avoid pressure points and ulcers on the skin due to prolonged use.

In any case, having a paralysis is not currently an obstacle for dogs to continue moving and enjoying. There are wheelchairs adapted to them, with which, if they have mobility in the front legs, they can continue walking and moving as if all four legs worked well.

Frequently asked questions

My dog limps on one leg, but it doesn’t hurt

Even if your dog isn’t showing signs of pain, lameness indicates that something isn’t right. Lameness can be the result of injury, infection, inflammation, or even joint problems such as arthritis. Sometimes dogs hide their pain due to their instinct, so it’s important to take it to the vet for a thorough examination. Treatment will vary depending on the cause, but rest is generally recommended in the first few days.

Why My Dog Can’t Walk With His Hind Legs

The inability to walk with the hind legs can be a sign of a serious condition such as a degenerative disc disease, neurological problems, spinal injuries, or even vascular disease. This symptom requires immediate veterinary attention to diagnose the underlying cause and begin appropriate treatment, which may include medication, surgery, or physical therapy.

My dog limps on one front leg

Lameness in a front leg can be caused by a number of reasons, including injuries (such as sprains or fractures), infections, joint inflammation, or problems with the paw pads. It is important to note any other symptoms such as swelling, redness, or tenderness to touch, and consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. Rest and avoiding physical exertion are common recommendations until the veterinary consultation.

Paralysis in dogs due to poisoning

Paralysis caused by poisoning in dogs can occur due to the ingestion of toxic substances such as poisonous plants, dangerous foods (such as chocolate or xylitol), or chemicals. This is an emergency case that requires immediate veterinary attention. Treatment depends on the toxin involved and may include inducing vomiting, administering antidotes, or providing life support until the toxic substance has been eliminated from the body.

Treatment for dogs with paralysis in the hind legs

Treatment for hind leg paralysis depends on the underlying cause. Options may include surgery, especially if there is a herniated disc or spinal injury; medications to relieve pain and inflammation; and physical therapy to help regain mobility. Mobility aids, such as dog wheelchairs, may also be recommended to improve the animal’s quality of life.

My dog has weakness in his hind legs and is shaking

Weakness and tremor in the hind legs can be symptoms of various conditions, including neurological problems, muscle degeneration, or even exposure to cold. It is crucial to observe if these symptoms are accompanied by other changes in the dog’s behavior or overall health. A veterinarian can perform tests to identify the cause and suggest the most appropriate treatment, which can range from medication to rehabilitation therapy.

My dog walks and goes sideways

If your dog walks by leaning to one side, this may be indicative of balance problems, neurological problems, or even pain in some part of his body that prevents him from walking normally. Noting other symptoms such as head tilting, difficulty getting up, or lack of coordination can help the diagnosis. A veterinary evaluation is essential to determine the cause and the appropriate treatment, which can include everything from medications to specific rehabilitation exercises.

Remember, these are informative starting points and never substitutes for veterinary consultation. Each case is unique, and only a professional can offer diagnosis and treatment

Toni Fernandez

Director of Ortocanis

12/11/2018/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Diseases of adult dogs and their symptoms

Animal welfare, Pathologies

Old age, if we are lucky, is something that affects us all equally, whether we are humans, dogs, cats or any other species. Although each one can have its particular pathologies, the truth is that the diseases of adult dogs are often similar to ours. We leave you what they are and their symptoms so you can detect if they are affecting your friend.

What are the diseases of adult dogs

A dog is considered an adult when it reaches 8 years of age. When it comes to large breeds, it can be even sooner. At this stage, imbalances in health and some pathologies typical of this age begin to appear. Although not all dogs will suffer from them, we are going to find out what are the most common diseases of adult dogs and the symptoms they present.

Although some may have treatments or solutions to help them improve, others are a natural part of the process of any living being and the only thing we can do is support them and continue to love them so that they feel supported.

osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is probably one of the most frequent diseases of adult dogs. It is familiar to us since it also affects humans, and the symptoms are very similar. Bone and joint pain and difficulty in performing certain movements are the symptoms that appear when this pathology progresses.

That is why adult dogs become progressively more inactive and can change their cheerful and playful character. The symptoms are, therefore, an increase in passivity, complaints when making some movements, loss of interest in walking and playing, and even loss of appetite. However, there are many solutions such as slings or knee protectors that can help relieve pressure and reduce pain.

Obesity

Obesity is another of the diseases of adult dogs that occurs more frequently. In addition, it is often linked to osteoarthritis. Excess weight increases the pressure on the joints and the effort they must make.

To prevent this from happening, you have to pay attention to your diet. Excess treats should be eliminated and opt for a senior feed. Nutritional needs vary as well as the total number of calories. Obesity can cause other diseases in adult dogs, such as heart and kidney diseases.

deafness and blindness

Both are also diseases of adult dogs, just as they happen to people. As long as they maintain their sense of smell, dogs can handle themselves quite well. On the other hand, in the case of blindness, if it is about cataracts, they can be operated on. When it comes to degenerative processes there is little we can do. Since it is possible that they move at a slower speed, we should always offer them a good coat to walk.

Kidney diseases

Although there are more, the last of the most frequent diseases of adult dogs are kidney diseases. Nausea or loss of appetite are the main symptoms of this pathology. Although there is no cure, some medications can reduce the discomfort caused. Just like with arthritis.

Diseases of adult dogs are a natural part of the aging process. The important thing is to continue taking good care of the animal, administering the medications it requires and offering therapeutic help to maintain its mobility.

05/11/2018/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Physiotherapy for dogs: when it is necessary to apply it

Animal welfare, Treatments

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%.

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.

29/10/2018/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina