Dog Harnesses - VITAL VET REVIEW
I must admit, I don't like dog collars. I've had healthy dogs and dogs with orthopedic and neurologic issues and none of them appreciated being tugged around by their neck. I don't blame them! In general, harnesses provide better support and control, and definitely help ouchy dogs get around better. For dogs with injuries or who have trouble getting around, harnesses are indispensable. For hyperactive dogs who want nothing more than to chase...
THE DOG'S KNEE-Treatment Options: Part 4 of 6 in a Series
PART 4 - TREATMENT OPTIONS There are both medical and surgical treatment options for patients suffering from cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR). Medical management is sometimes considered to be more conservative than surgical treatment. It is important to understand, however, that medical management for CCLR in dogs can be very extensive and expensive. The choice to pursue surgical management may be influenced by factors such as patient size, the stage of...
THE DOG'S KNEE: Part 2 of 6 in a Series
ABOUT ACL AND CCL INJURIES - PART 2 The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), equivalent to the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL in people, is responsible for limiting hyperextension of the stifle (knee), limiting internal rotation of the tibia in relation to the femur, and to prevent forward sliding/drawer motion of the tibia in relation to the femur. Cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR) is the most common cause of hind limb...
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...
GET A GRIP: Keeping Seniors, Injured, and Weak Dogs Safe at Home
Older dogs and those with injuries or balance issues can have trouble moving around the home, especially on slippery surfaces like tile or wood floors. Some dogs react to slippery floors by not wanting to get up or walk - they lack confidence and will elect to "stay put" rather than risk slipping. Pets that are nervous about moving around can become weak because they are less active. Other dogs are less self-protective or fearful,...
Hind Leg Weakness In Dogs – Signs And Symptoms
There are many causes of hind leg weakness in dogs and the exact cause is often difficult to establish – even for veterinarians. Senior dogs often show weakness in their back legs. This usually develops gradually over time. Dogs tend to get aches and pains as they get older – just like we do. Some causes of hind leg weakness in dogs can however strike at any age. Sudden weakness,...
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...
Orthopedic Outcomes Improve When Veterinary Surgeons and Rehab Teams Collaborate
Orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation go hand in hand, say surgeon David Dycus, DVM, MS, CCRP, DACVS-SA, from Veterinary Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Group in Annapolis Junction, Maryland, and rehabilitation specialist Matthew Brunke, DVM, DACVSMR, CCRP, CVPP, CVA, from Veterinary Surgical Centers Rehabilitation in Vienna, Virginia. These former coworkers explain why it’s important for surgeons and rehab specialists to work together for optimal patient outcomes. The surgeon says… For people who undergo...