Essential fatty acids are vital nutrients that your pet’s body cannot produce on its own, making them a crucial part of a healthy diet. Among these, omega-3 fatty acids stand out for their numerous health benefits.
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), offer a wide range of advantages for your furry friend:
The best sources of omega-3 fatty acids for pets include:
To ensure your pet receives the optimal amount of omega-3s, consider the following:
Remember, a balanced diet that includes essential fatty acids is key to your pet’s overall health and well-being. By incorporating omega-3s into their diet, you can help them thrive and live a longer, healthier life.
For More Information you can contact one of our vet techs via our contact form or visit us on Facebook.
Hey guys, this is Nikki the lead Vet tech with Posh Dog Knee Braces. Today let’s talk about signs to look out for when your dog is having issues with mobility. One of the most common things we will see is limping or favoring a leg. There are many things that can cause limping, such as pain, weakness, and even numbness in the limb. This could come from the spine, hips, or a joint, so it’s always best to have a vet check out any consistent limping.
Another sign of weakening mobility is having a hard time getting up. If your dog does the boot scoot trying to stand each time, or seems to be really digging with those front legs, this could mean joint or muscle problems. Usually this is also a sign of osteoarthritis. Over time, especially if a certain joint is sore, they use them less and less frequently, thus causing weaker and weaker muscles. Especially those back legs. This is why a lot of hip arthritis dogs may end up needing something like a cart to help them walk eventually.
Stiffness or moving really slow can also be a warning of arthritis, weakened muscles,or neurological issue. Sometimes this will come with shaking or trembling. Dog’s do not typically shake or tremble from the cold, but they will shake if in pain.
Not wanting to play or jump anymore. If your dog stops at those stairs now and refuses to jump, they are not being stubborn. Perhaps there is something causing them pain when they use the steps, such as a back issue, limb pain, or muscle pain. You may need to get a temporary sling to use under their belly, to help them up and down the stairs.
Dragging toenails, or scraping them on the concrete. Sometimes this can be from numbness due to a neurologic issue, or pain/muscle weakness. Either way, make sure to let your vet know if your dog is showing any signs of dragging their feet or toes. Dog’s should naturally pick up those feet every time they step, but if there is pain or weakness, it becomes harder and harder. There are boots and braces that can be used to help prevent damage to their feet if this becomes an issue.
Again please let me know if you have any questions about weakening mobility! For more information please visit our Contact Page or Facebook Page.
Hey guys, this is Nikki the lead Vet tech with Posh Dog Knee Braces. Today let’s talk about PROM and stretching, especially after an injury like CCL tears. So to explain better, let’s first dive into what happens when we injure a ligament. Those fibers are gone forever once torn. There is no surgery to re-attach them; they will be absorbed by our body. Then, our bodies do something quite amazing. They replace those collagen fibers of our ligament tissue with new collagen fibrous tissue, called scar tissue. So scar tissue can be a good thing, or it can be a bad thing.
Ever had a car accident or injury? Did the Dr. say to just rest for 6 months and never move that joint? I sure hope the answer was a big NO!! Letting scar tissue form, but not doing any stretches or PROM after an injury while scar tissue forms, will result in a joint recovering, sure, however, there will be no range of motion after. The joint will be stiff, the scar tissue hard and unforgiving.
I see these patients come in, months after the CCL injury, and their dog is stiff and sore still after the allotted recovery time. This is from lack of stretching those joints most likely. Scar tissue is strong stuff. Sometimes it takes surgery to remove scar tissue once it forms incorrectly, and we start over. The second time around, hopefully you would be doing the recommended stretches and PT.
When we do stretch and PROM after an injury, it not only tells our joints to produce lubrication to keep things healthy, it also makes those scar tissue fibers more elastic, and healthy. These patients have a much more comfortable long term success rate than those that do not do any PROM. They will have full function of their knee and joints, and much less discomfort long term.
Takeaway? Please follow our PROM and stretching recommendations when using the Posh Dog Knee Brace, or even the elbow and carpal braces. Find a physical therapist if you are unfamiliar with PROM, or uncomfortable doing it yourself. It is definitely in your pups best interests.
Again please let me know if you have any questions! You can contact us via our contact form or follow us on Facebook.
Today let’s talk about stress for our dog friends, and how to help your dog unstress. Sometimes dog’s will not outright tell us when something bothers them, instead they will give you clues or behaviors that may not be what we like. Sometimes dogs can come with some emotional baggage, both shelter pups as well as backyard breeder pups. Things like leaving them alone at home, going on vacations, changes to their routine, bringing home a cute new kitten or puppy (or human baby), even changing food can cause your dog stress.
There are much more options to consider to unstres your dog, but treating stress early on is the best thing you can do. Some bad behaviors or anxiety can turn into real issues that eventually need medical intervention, however, most of the time all it takes is a little love from you to pull them through. For more information you can contact us via our Facebook page or leave a message on our contact page.
Hey guys, this is Nikki the lead Vet tech with Posh Dog Knee Braces. Today let’s talk about atrophy. What is atrophy and how can we prevent it? Atrophy happens rather fast for our furry best friends. It is when the muscles are not being used, be it from an injury or disease process, and we start having mobility issues. Injuries like a CCL tear can definitely cause atrophy in the thigh muscle rather fast, like a few weeks. This is why at Posh we provide physical therapy to do daily with your recovering dog.
Once atrophy has set in, it is really hard to get that muscle back. Bracing will help, as we are allowing a patient to fully weight bear with the brace on, and resume activities. The sooner we resume activities, the faster we can begin working those muscles. If you simply chose to do CM, with no physical therapy, your dog will have atrophy and a much higher chance of the second leg injuring. If walks are out of the question for you, then hydrotherapy should be an option, as you need to be doing some kind of activity to challenge that muscle.
If we leave muscles to atrophy for too long, we can end up with a patient that can no longer use that leg properly. You will have gait changes, trouble standing up, and difficulty walking normally without swinging the leg to overcompensate. There are many things you can do, even nutritionally, to help fight atrophy. Egg proteins, amino acids, whey protein, ect. You want to be sure your dog is getting adequate protein, as they will be working those muscles with the brace on.
Again please let me know if you have any questions you can contact us via our Facebook Page or send us an message via our contact page!
Hey guys! This is Nikki, Lead Veterinary Technician with Posh Dog Knee Braces. Today let’s go over six fun activities you can still do with your braced pup.
First activity, walks, walks and more walks! We include a full rehab and walk schedule for you, so you don’t have to guess how long is too long. When starting out, nice and slow up to 10 minutes twice daily is perfect, if your dog is feeling up to it. Then, you can slowly increase the amount you are walking each week.
Second activity, swimming! Just like Dory says “Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming.” Swimming takes all the pressure off those limbs and joints, so that your pup is using all of the muscle, without all the pressure on those legs. There is no overcompensating on joints with swimming, so enjoy some fun times with your furry friend at the beach, or a pool!
Third activity is hydrotherapy. Similar to swimming, hydrotherapy is done with a controlled setting, usually at a rehab facility. Exercising with an underwater treadmill is one of the most common forms of hydrotherapy. Make sure to find a facility that will accommodate this activity. This is one of the best options, as it is controlled, and helps strengthen those atrophied muscles.
Fourth activity is finding something that will help strengthen the core. This helps support our hips and spine, and keeps things happy and in alignment. This is why with the posh program, we include tips on doing dog ups and downs, sit ups, even doggy yoga specific for dogs!
Games that are less of an impact, such as nose work, obedience training, or something fun mentally like a puzzle treat game. Play hide and seek with your dog, have them try to find you. Have them try to sniff out their favorite toy or treat. Give them fun things to do.
Lastly is physical therapy. This can be done with a physical therapist, which is the best option, or at home. While a physical therapist can tailor a routine for your dog, you can find similar exercises to do online as well, such as passive range of motion, ladder work, curb work, sit to stands, ect. We do provide a lot of these with our PT handouts, as suggestions to our clients for use.
Thanks, and feel free to reach out with any questions via email Po*********@***il.com or through our website and you can visit us on Facebook.
Think about the issue from your dog’s point of view if they won’t go for a walk with you while on a leash.
If your dog refuses to walk on a leash, consider things from their perspective. Why doesn’t he find walks enjoyable?
First, rule out any physical issues. Do his nails grow too long? He can have painful muscles, inflamed skin between his toes, or arthritis that makes it difficult for him to walk. To be sure, take your pet for a veterinary examination. Ask your veterinarian about the possibility of pain medication if your dog is an elderly dog with arthritis.
Examine how well his harness fits him; if not, try a different one or just use his flat collar.
Make sure the area you’re strolling on is pleasant for him; avoid hot concrete, rough grass, and steep inclines. Are his paws too cold if it’s cold outside? Some dogs try to elevate all four feet off the ground by practically sitting on their hindquarters. Some people stutter.
To make your dog more excited about going for walks, keep in mind:
Let’s now increase his enthusiasm for walks and the leash.
Say “Leash!” as you pick up the leash and place it on him. Present him with a treat right away. Next, use a fresh cue (one that you haven’t used previously) and invite him to accompany you on a walk around your home or yard. Saying “Walk,” “OK,” or “Let’s go!” is OK. It is irrelevant. It matters that you say it in a lighthearted, joyful manner and give him a reward as soon as he follows your lead. Give him rewards all the time. Limit the duration of sessions to three to five minutes. You might have noticed by now that he keeps staring up at you as he walks along.
Take him for a quick walk somewhere fresh when you think he’s ready. Along the way, spoil him with lots of sweets. Use a very high rate of reinforcement (treats and praise) as you approach and pass the hurdle if you believe that something up ahead might annoy him. When he comes to you with a worry, eventually he will look at you like you’re a pleasure.
Walks should be gradually extended, but if your dog starts to show signs of reluctance after you’ve taken care of his equipment and health concerns, cut down on the distance and honor his boundaries! Not every dog has to walk long distances to be happy or healthy.
If you are interested in one of our Posh Dog Knee Brace you can contact us via our contact page or check us out on Facebook.
People sometimes assume that a dog isn’t in pain if it isn’t screaming out or whining. However, a limp is a clear indication of pain and a warning that your dog is unwilling to bear weight on the injured leg.
Dogs are typically energetic, active members of the family, which makes them prone to accidents. These can include systemic infections, fractured bones, and strained muscles.
If your dog is limping, it’s time to take him to the vet. Depending on how serious the issue is, they might want you to keep an eye on your dog at home for 24 to 48 hours while you rest him. If your limp doesn’t get better or gets worse, they’ll probably want you to make an appointment.
It is crucial to keep in mind that in this situation, over-the-counter pain relievers should not be used. Dogs can safely take aspirin and acetaminophen (Tylenol), but overdosing can cause bleeding issues and liver failure. Do not take these drugs without first talking to your veterinarian.
To find out why your dog limps, the veterinarian must perform a complete physical examination. An examination from head to toe should involve taking your dog’s vital signs, feeling its lymph nodes, listening to its heart and lungs, manipulating the achy limb, and watching it while it walks. In order to identify potential reasons, it is critical to identify which limb and which part of the limb is afflicted.
Dog limping has a very wide range of causes. Infectious ailments like Ehrlichia and Lyme disease, inflammatory disorders like panosteitis, vascular disorders like blood clots, and orthopedic issues like fractures are some of the broad categories that encompass soft tissue strains or rips (ligaments, tendons, and muscles). These can be further separated into front and back limbs. A torn cranial cruciate ligament is one particular issue that can only occur in the back limb, however the majority of lameness issues are comparable in the front and back legs.
With a history and your dog’s age and breed, you can frequently determine the triggering cause (this is called the signalment). For example, panosteitis, a typical inflammatory illness of the breed, would be a strong suspect in a German shepherd puppy with acute onset of shifting leg lameness. If an elderly dog suddenly became lame in one leg and could not bear any weight, this could be a sign of a bone malignancy such as osteosarcoma and a fractured bone. Rocky Mountain spotted fever, a common tick-borne infection, could be the cause of a young limping Coonhound with a history of tick exposure, fever, and abnormalities on bloodwork.
Your veterinarian may offer a variety of tests, such as bloodwork, tick disease testing, and/or x-rays, depending on what they discover. The optimal course of treatment will also be decided by them.
Additionally, your veterinarian will advise resting your dog. There won’t be much exercise involved—leash walks will only be taken to use the restroom. Icing or using heat can be helpful in certain situations. The cause determines the appropriate course of action.
Consult your veterinarian right away if your dog starts to limp, give them some rest so they can heal, and refrain from giving them over-the-counter medication without first talking to them. There are many different reasons why dogs limp, and your veterinarian should be able to assist your dog based on a comprehensive medical history and physical examination.
If you are interested in more information or would like to know more about our Posh Dog Knee Brace you can contact us via our contact form or visit us on Facebook.
For your dog, which is preferable—a dog collar or a harness? Most of it is dog-specific! The degree to which the equipment fits your dog will depend on a number of factors, including its design, fit, introduction, and usage.
There are a ton of dog collar and harness options available, along with a ton of contradicting information when contrasting dog collars and harnesses! Which is better for your adult dog or your puppy? How can you tell? Although the response is “it depends,” the following tips will assist you in selecting the ideal equipment for your dog.
Choosing which dog collars or harnesses to discard is the easiest part of the process. Any device intended to inflict pain or suffering on your dog is not eligible for consideration. This includes prong and choke collars, shock collars (marketed euphemistically as “e-collars”), and harnesses that tighten around your dog’s barrel, called “no-pulls.” Never listen to someone who claims these aren’t unpleasant. They are, and that’s how they use pain to manipulate the dog.
We would much rather teach dogs how to behave properly when walking than simply punish them for pulling or other undesirable behavior.
Next, even if the equipment isn’t made or meant to be unpleasant, we advise against giving it to your dog. It will be challenging to get your dog to willingly learn and comply with you if you employ equipment that they obviously detests.
When presented with some things, like head halters, most dogs find them repulsive at first. Many dog owners find the process of counter-conditioning and desensitization to be particularly difficult when trying to teach their dogs to accept head halters, as most dogs need a very slow, gentle introduction and significant conditioning before they will accept these devices. It’s best to put the head halter away if your dog exhibits signs of disliking it.
Although vibrating dog collars are sometimes advertised as aversive, they can be utilized positively if you help your dog associate the vibration with good things from the beginning. Vibration dog collars are frequently used by owners of deaf dogs to signal or cue their pets for certain actions, though the dog does not need to be deaf to use the collar for this purpose. However, once more, it’s not a good idea if your dog indicates to you that she finds the vibration unpleasant even after you’ve tried to desensitize and counter condition her.
Regular harnesses, which are typically regarded as non-aversive, make most dogs happy. On the other hand, you may mark it off your list if your dog flees from you when you pick up her harness because it means she detests it!
Every dog collar and leash has the potential to be unpleasant if used incorrectly, therefore even our recommended training aids must be used correctly—please don’t yank, jerk, or hang! Generally speaking, our top picks for dog walking equipment are:
Our initial tools of choice are usually flat collars, martingale collars fitted correctly, and front-and/or back-clip harnesses.
Back-clip harnesses and flat collars are ideal for non-pulling dogs.
Martingale dog collars can be extremely helpful if your dog has mastered the ability of pulling out of her collar. Martingale collars, sometimes known as “Greyhound collars,” are perfect for dogs with extremely narrow skulls and thick necks when the head is smaller than the neck. Just enough is tightened with leash tension on these “limited slip” collars to keep them from slipping over the dog’s head.
We prefer the more recent style of front-clip harnesses for pulling dogs. There are no shoulder straps on these goods to restrict the dog’s range of motion. We believe that vibration collars and head halters are appropriate for dogs who are accustomed to them.
For dogs who play or wrestle with a lot of mouth-to-neck biting, we suggest breakaway collars. In order to avoid potentially fatal choking incidents, take off your dogs’ collars before they play or when you leave them together unattended.
Puppies need to have the greatest consideration when selecting a collar. Aversive tools are obviously out of the question, but even a flat collar can cause serious harm to a puppy’s delicate trachea if it pulls. Use additional caution when handling your puppy to ensure that you aren’t applying pressure to its sensitive throat; wearing a harness is usually a preferable option.
Regarding the collar/harness conundrum, there is no simple solution. Examine your alternatives, seek assistance (if necessary) in selecting the right product, observe your dog’s reaction to your selection, and make adjustments as necessary. And don’t forget to train your dog so that regardless of the equipment you select, pulling becomes less of a problem.
If you have any questions or would like more information about our Posh Dog Knee Brace contact via our contact page or visit our Facebook page.
These ten weight-loss suggestions for senior dogs will help them live longer, better lives!
Like senior people, older dogs find it easier to move around if they don’t weigh too much. Dogs of all ages may find it difficult to lose weight, but this is more true as they mature. Dog weight loss is still worthwhile, though. Not only do slim dogs move around easier, but they also have longer lifespans. Dogs fed 25% less calories than their littermates that were fed freely lived over two years longer, had fewer outward symptoms of aging, and had an additional three years of pain-free mobility before developing canine arthritis, according to a 14-year research. Senior dogs can enjoy longer, healthier lives with the help of these weight loss methods!
Pancreatitis, diabetes, heart disease, disc disease, torn cruciate ligaments, hip dysplasia, various joint diseases, surgical complications, weakened immune systems, and several cancers are among the health issues that are more prevalent in overweight dogs. Regretfully, research indicates that over 50% of senior dogs in the United States are overweight, yet almost all of their owners are unaware of this! It’s time to face facts and put your dog on a diet if you can’t feel your dog’s shoulder blades and ribs easily, if her waist is invisible (tucked behind the ribs), or if there’s a roll of fat at the base of her tail.
The proportion of carbs to fats and protein is more important for weight loss than calories. It is hard to lose weight on most prescription weight-loss diets because they are low in fat, high in carbohydrates, and poor in protein. Senior dogs don’t require any carbohydrates at all and thrive on a diet strong in protein, which helps them gain lean muscle. A diet that is moderate in fat, low in carbohydrates, and high in protein will help dogs lose weight by satisfying their appetites.
More fiber, which is the indigestible portion of carbs, won’t make your dog feel fuller and too much of it can obstruct their ability to absorb nutrients. Grains are a frequent source of fiber, and as long as they don’t include too much fat, many grain-free diets can be helpful for weight loss because they are rich in protein and low in carbohydrates
Creating your own moderate-fat, low-carb, high-protein diet is an additional choice.
Instead of most grains and starches, use lean meats, low-fat dairy, and green vegetables if you feed a homemade diet. Take off the skin from fowl (except the breasts) and trim meats of any removable fat. Steer clear of fatty meats like lamb, hog, and high-fat beef, or cook them until the majority of the fat is gone. Eggs are OK to use, but only in small amounts. Additionally, you can substitute up to 25% of a commercial pet food with these foods, increasing the overall protein content and lowering the amount of carbs in the diet.
It’s a common misperception that feeding your senior dog a lot of green beans will make them feel less hungry, Green beans and other non-starchy vegetables are safe to include in your dog’s diet, but if you’re giving them too few calories or too little fat, the extra bulk won’t make them feel full. Adding mass alone is insufficient to satisfy your dog; fat is what makes the biggest difference. A protein shortage brought on by consuming an excessive amount of green beans can result in the loss of lean muscle rather than fat.
The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA from fish oil help dieters feel more content with their diets and aid in weight loss, according to recent research on humans and dogs. For healthy senior dogs, according to Straus, fish oil containing 1 to 1.5 mg of combined EPA and DHA per pound of body weight should be given daily; for dogs with health issues (heart disease, kidney disease, cancer, arthritis, allergies, and other conditions causing inflammation or affecting the immune system), the recommended dosage is up to 3 mg. Vitamins D and A are included in some cod liver oils, such as Carlson Norwegian Cod Liver Oil with Omega 3s, for further health advantages.
Remember that oils are pure fat and provide about 40 calories per teaspoon when adding them to your dog’s food. Many liquid fish-oil solutions have label directions that are greater than they should be, which means your dog’s diet is getting too many calories. If your dog need higher dosages of DHA and EPA, search for softgels that are more concentrated. To make sure you’re not adding too much fat, measure other oils carefully, such as coconut and olive oil.
Reduce your senior dog’s food by roughly five percent and feed that slightly reduced amount for a week or two instead of making big changes all at once. Approximately 1 ounce is reduced for every pound of food, or 1/8 cup for every two cups. Weigh your dog now, and then again in a week or two. If she doesn’t lose weight, cut her food intake by an additional 5% and stick with it for a week or two. Once your dog starts to lose weight, keep lowering the amount of food they are fed, and then stick with that level.
This tactic is beneficial since it prevents your dog’s metabolism from changing unexpectedly, which makes it more difficult for them to lose weight and more likely for them to gain it back. The likelihood of long-term success is higher for gradual, consistent weight loss.
Reduce the amount by up to one-third if you go to a food that is significantly more in fat and protein than the one you are currently eating. This is because foods that are higher in nutrients will supply you more calories in smaller quantities. Your dog might be happier even though he gets less in total than he did previously.
Giving your senior dog smaller meals more frequently will make them feel less peckish. Add some canned or fresh high-protein food in place of some dry food to give him the impression that he’s getting something exceptional. Make him work for his meals by putting them in a Kong, Buster Cube, or other food-dispensing toy. This will make him feel more content. To extend the life of a meal, freeze his wet food, which is a combination of dry food and nonfat yogurt, inside a Kong toy.
It’s critical to measure your dog’s food accurately. Some senior dogs gain weight when you try to eyeball their food, a lesson learnt the hard way. We’ve discovered that the only way we can consistently regulate the weight is to weigh everything he eat with an electronic scale. Scales are available online and at office and kitchen supply stores. The majority can accurately measure up to five pounds to the tenth of an ounce, and for really tiny measures, they can convert to grams.
Keeping a food diary or diet book for your senior dogs and measuring everything will help family members understand how much the dog is consuming. If Fido is receiving training goodies, afternoon snacks, and breakfast leftovers all day, feeding him a tiny dinner won’t make a difference. Get the participation of everyone who feeds your dog by discussing the diet plan with them. To keep your dog engaged, assign a set amount of little training treats to each member of the family. In addition, encourage everyone to focus on calorie-free activities like games, walks, fetch, and other favorite activities.
If your senior dog is small, you can use a postal scale used for packages or a baby scale to weigh her. If your big dog is agreeable, take her to your veterinarian every one to two weeks; they have a walk-on scale that fits dogs of all sizes. If your dog has bad memories of the clinic, try to rehabilitate her attitude with high-value, low-calorie treats. Short visits consisting of treats, excited jumping on the scale, and a minute of sitting or stillness before returning home are often well-received by most dogs.
Aim for weight loss of three to five percent of body weight per month, or one percent per week. About half a pound should be lost per week, or two pounds, for a 50-pound dog. After your dog starts dropping weight consistently, you can wait longer between weigh-ins, but make sure you’re still on track by checking in once a month. It’s simple to revert to overfeeding your dog and fail to detect the problem until they’ve put on a significant amount of weight.
Your dog’s calorie requirements may also alter as he gets older, after being neutered, or if his level of activity changes with the seasons. Frequent weighing will enable you to detect and address any weight gain in your dog before it becomes a more serious issue.
It is more satisfying for a senior dog to receive multiple small goodies rather than one large gift because dogs are more concerned with the quantity of treats they receive than the size of each treat. Slice treats in half or quarters lengthwise before dicing to create lots of small pieces.
High-fat and high-calorie treats, including peanut butter and hot dogs, can make you gain weight. Try raw baby carrots, slices of zucchini, other crunchy vegetables, or tiny pieces of melon, apple, or banana as an alternative. Use low-fat organ meats, such as liver or heart, to make your own confections. Because they can be poisonous to dogs, grapes, raisins, and products containing the sugar substitute xylitol should not be used.
Giving your senior dog snacks during the day made of some of his supper is another tactic. Just make sure you adjust the size of her meal appropriately.
Dogs enjoy chewing, so finding a long-lasting, low-fat chew can keep your pooch occupied, content, and out of trouble with the calories. Steer sticks, dried tendons, and other like chews are effective as long as they are not small enough for the dog to swallow.
If you use rawhide, we suggests using thick, premium rawhide that is made from a single, solid piece and is unbleached (not white), preferably made in the United States, without any additional flavorings or smoking.
While raw, fresh bones can also be chewed, we cautions that this should be done with caution because “bones, like any hard chew, have the potential to break teeth, particularly in older dogs whose teeth are more brittle.” Knuckles, for example, are too huge for dogs to jam between their molars and chomp on, so they are less likely to cause issues than marrow bones, which are heavy and hence not a suitable option.
If you would like any information about our Posh Dog Knee Brace you can contact us via our contact form or you can check out our Facebook Page.
Although elbow dysplasia in dogs is an irreversible hereditary disease, having your puppy checked for it can help lessen its effects.
Elbow dysplasia is the second most common cause of elbow lameness in dogs. Some people call this osteoarthritis, but actually dysplasia refers to an actual developmental defect, usually genetic.
If left untreated, this usually results in osteoarthritis down the road. True elbow dysplasia needs to be diagnosed after the growth plates have closed, after 4-12 months old. Some patients may not show lameness until later in life, when arthritis really kicks in. If caught early enough, as soon as they are symptomatic, surgery can be done to remove damaged tissue, and fix elbow joint. However, even surgery is not a cure. This may help slow down progression of arthritis, however, arthritis will still form.
Elbow dysplasia, a degenerative joint disease (DJD) complex, is defined by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) as involving three key locations where an abnormality in bone growth may occur:
When an OFA result solely shows DJD, it is generally considered that lesions related to coronoid process disease are present. Most cases of elbow dysplasia can be explained by this.
Data from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) show that over 79 breeds of dogs are affected with elbow dysplasia. To assist breeders in enhancing the genetic health of dog breeds, the OFA analyzes dogs for inherited medical disorders. It is a voluntary screening process that involves an examination and paperwork from your personal veterinarian. The OFA receives the results and provides a certification score. Breeders can prevent inherited disease by using the statistics to guide their breeding decisions. To be screened and become a part of the OFA, dogs do not need to be purebred.
OFA records show that the Chow and Bulldog breeds have the greatest rates of elbow dysplasia. Interestingly, elbow dysplasia has never been documented in Beagles or Pyrenean Shepherds.
OFA assigns a grade based on the degree of alterations in the joint if it isn’t normal. Elbows fall into the following categories:
The degree of degenerative joint degeneration shown on radiographs is the basis for these grading. Joint abnormalities cause the bony degenerative changes. Evaluations of the elbow should begin at age two. Normal wear and tear on your dog’s elbow joints over time may cause changes in the bone called osteoarthritis, which would mask any inherited developmental issues.
A flaw in the elbow joint’s ultimate development in a puppy causes elbow dysplasia. Three bones mesh together to form the complex elbow joint: the humerus, which is the large bone that descends from the shoulder, the radius, and the ulna, which are the two smaller forearm bones. Arthritis can develop and cause lameness if there is a deviation from the normal alignment of these bones that create the elbow joint.
Dogs with minor elbow dysplasia might not exhibit lameness until later in life, while severe dysplasia can be severely crippling. Dogs that are male are more commonly impacted. Dogs who are overweight or excessively active run the risk of sustaining joint problems. Between 30 and 80 percent of canines are thought to be afflicted bilaterally, which complicates diagnosis. These dogs may have a reduced range of motion and an overall shortened stride rather than the head bobbing that is typically associated with lameness in the front legs. Manipulation will cause pain in both legs. It is usually advisable to radiograph the other leg in case it is also afflicted if your dog is lame in one of its front legs.
The dog may exhibit swelling in the elbow joint of its front limb if it has severe elbow dysplasia. An almost fused joint will feel firm to the touch due to bony changes. Warmth, fluid accumulation, and inflammation are possible in the early stages, but they will go away with time.
A lameness test, which involves flexing and stretching the elbow joint and observing your dog’s movements, is the first step in the diagnosis process. It’s likely that your veterinarian will advise elbow joint X-rays. An extreme flexed-joint X-ray view is necessary for OFA examination, but your veterinarian may also get alternative views to assess the severity of the issue. A CT scan or arthroscopy may be suggested in addition to referring a patient to a board-certified veterinary if the diagnosis is unclear.
While medical care can help your dog with painkillers, joint supplements, bracing and rehabilitation programs to build muscle and reduce joint strain are all possible components of medical therapy.
Not everyone can afford elbow replacement surgery, due to the cost. This is where our Posh Dog Elbow brace can be very helpful. We have worked both with patients pos-op after surgery, to help support and maintain normal movement and support post-op, as well as for patients that could not afford the surgery (or their dog was not a surgical candidate). Some patients come to us with arthritic changes already happening in the elbow, and they are not great surgical candidates for that reason as well, so bracing may be a great alternative. When looking for an elbow brace, especially for dysplasia, you must find a custom product that will help aid in offloading/act as a shock absorber. This is exactly what Posh Braces do, and why we work with many rehab practitioners as well as surgeons. Taking the pressure off the elbow can help relieve the symptoms of elbow dysplasia, and hopefully slow down the production of arthritis, similar to surgery. We are here to support your dog through this process, both with helping you measure for our elbow brace, as well as helping you with the fitting process.
Don’t let elbow dysplasia ruin your dog’s quality of life, call Posh for more information you can contact us via our contact form our visit our Facebook page.
Dogs with heat pad therapy can have less pain, less stiffness, and more relaxed muscles.
Can your dog’s arthritic pain be relieved by heat therapy? Indeed. In addition to providing your dog with certain benefits, an orthopedic dog heating pad can also be comforting on a chilly day.
Your dog with arthritis may find that heat helps both relieve and heal chronic pain over time. Not only can heat relieve your dog’s sore joints, but it also promotes blood circulation. Warmth frequently relieves muscle spasms and causes stiff joints to relax. Using heat on your dog can help him benefit as much as possible from stretching exercises or rehabilitation.
Heat treatment lowers muscular spasm, improves local tissue oxygenation and metabolism, and raises the pain threshold and extensibility of connective tissue.
Cold therapy works best to reduce inflammation after an acute injury. Consider using cold compresses for the first 24 hours if your senior Labrador aggravates a previous stifle injury, for instance. After surgery, cold therapy is the most beneficial alternative for up to 72 hours.
When using heat or leaving your dog on a heating pad, exercise caution. It’s possible to unintentionally warm the region and exacerbate the trauma. Pet-specific heating pads come with heat settings that are ideal for a dog’s requirements. It is possible to set a human heating pad too high, and overheating is particularly dangerous for elderly, injured, or young dogs.
Always make sure your dog is comfortable by checking on them often. Placing a covering, such as a towel, between your dog and the heating pad is usually the best option. Applying heat to your dog for longer than 30 minutes is generally not recommended, while your dog might benefit from as little as 10 minutes.
You may create a low-cost heating “pad” at home by heating a moist towel in the microwave. Keep in mind that your dog will find it too hot when you remove it if it is hot to the touch. You can apply the warm, damp cloth straight to a sore joint. The same goes for rice or maize kernels; keep them away from the dog, as well as hot water bottles. For your dog’s arthritis pain, warm therapy works great—but it’s important to use warm, not hot, therapy.
If you are interested in more information about our Posh Dog Knee Brace or treatment for your dogs leg injuries please contact us via our contact form or visit our Facebook Page.
There are too many variables to make a general recommendation. When creating the ideal walking plan for your dog, take them all into account.
There isn’t a reliable general guideline that specifies how far or how long you should walk your dog. The frequency of dog walks should be determined by several pertinent aspects that are unique to each person’s health and requirements. These factors include:
A few warnings: Longer and quicker walks may not be in your dog’s best interest if she is an exercise addict who is constantly pushing herself to go farther and faster. This could cause her to get overly excited about starting a half-marathon or footrace every time you put on her leash. Alternate her long walks with shorter ones to help her learn how to take a more balanced approach to walking while also encouraging her to sniff and look around.
On the other hand, you are probably overdoing it if your dog occasionally refuses to go on walks, lays down, or runs for home. She may be in some bodily discomfort that you are unable to identify, in which case you should speak with your veterinarian. There’s never a good reason to make your dog participate in something she doesn’t appreciate.
Beyond the ones we’ve already discussed, there might be other medical issues. When it comes to physical concerns about your dog getting too much or not enough exercise, your dog’s veterinarian is the best person to ask. Looking to purchase a Posh Dog Knee Brace or would like information on it contact us via our contact page or visit our Facebook page for more information.
While no dog enjoys having their nails clipped, all dogs may learn to tolerate the process.
Dog Nail cutting can become a stress-free part of your normal grooming regimen with a little effort. We begin by introducing you to the two main techniques for dog nail trimming and provide some troubleshooting advice. Although most dogs dislike having their nails clipped, all canines may be trained to tolerate the process with time and patience. It’s time to clip your dog’s nails if you can hear them clicking as he moves over a floor.
Dogs who enjoy having their nails clipped are rare. However, your dog can be progressively trained to accept having his nails clipped:
If you would like more information about our Posh Dog Knee Brace contact us via our contact form or visit our Facebook page.
Dogs undergoing physical therapy sessions can heal from wounds or surgeries more swiftly and with wider range of motion. Additionally, visiting a canine rehabilitation therapist doesn’t cost much.
Although it’s incorrect to refer to professionals who help humans as “physical therapists,” canine rehabilitation therapists offer the same services to dogs. With the increasing availability of dog physical therapy, some veterinarians have pursued post-doctoral studies in acupuncture, chiropractic, pain management, and other rehabilitation modalities.
For instance, the American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians (AARV) provides information on the efficacy of this method for managing pain and function loss resulting from disease or injury to veterinarians, veterinary surgeons, and pet owners. In an effort to better serve the special needs of working and athletic animals, including those with chronic conditions like arthritis and neurologic impairments, the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation was established more recently.
Dog physical treatment typically starts with a referral to a canine rehabilitation therapist if your veterinarians do not specialize in rehabilitation themselves. These experts complete credentialing programs that concentrate on canine anatomy and physiology, common medical conditions and injuries, assessment methods, pain recognition, and rehabilitation programs to obtain credentials like CCRP (Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner) and CCAT (Certified Companion Animal Rehabilitation Therapist). Among the therapies they provide are:
It’s crucial to remember that the field of canine rehabilitation treatment is evolving quickly due to the availability of new technologies and methods as well as ongoing research, which makes continuing education and staying up to date for rehabilitation therapists essential.
Dog physical therapy can be used to treat both acute and chronic diseases, much like comparable human treatments. A canine rehabilitation therapist may be able to assist with techniques, specialized equipment, and at-home exercise routines if your dog is in pain, has lost strength or flexibility, has an uneven gait or loss of balance, is recuperating from an accident, injury, surgery, or illness, or has chronic symptoms that interfere with favorite activities.
Certain therapies call for tools that you may use at home, like ramps, platforms, balance pads, cushions, and discs. Clinic consultations are necessary for other equipment, like swimming pools, treadmills for dogs, and electronic/magnetic gadgets.
In order to ensure that their dogs have comprehensive physical assessments and that the therapist can contact the veterinarian with any necessary medical treatments or diagnoses, the majority of canine rehabilitation therapists choose to collaborate with veterinarians. Meanwhile, other dog owners have put together their own teams for physical therapy, working directly with holistic practitioners such as massage therapists, chiropractors, and canine acupuncturists. Go to AHVMA.org, the website of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, and select “Find a Member” to locate veterinarians who specialize in nutrition and complementary therapies that improve healing and rehabilitation.
A physical examination, which includes noting the dog’s stride, movement, structure, flexibility, strength, muscle tension, sore spots, and mobility, is the first step in seeing a canine rehabilitation therapist. The therapist will have time to get to know the dog and owner, go over the owner’s improvement and treatment objectives, and talk about the dog’s medical history and behaviors during what may be an hour-long session.
It could be beneficial to record your dog walking or moving in various directions both inside and outside as canine rehabilitation specialists concentrate on mobility and movement. Include the dates, diagnoses, and treatments of any specific illnesses, injuries, or incidents that have impacted mobility in your documentation.
The primary objective of the first visit is to create a strategy using the technology, tools, and therapies that are suitable. This frequently includes the suggestion of certain workouts to improve the muscles weakened by disease or trauma. Usually, these are made specifically for the patient to incorporate into an at-home workout regimen. Dogs that are healing from surgeries or accidents, or whose hind legs are weakening, may find that at-home exercise is very beneficial.
A follow-up plan can contain notes to distribute around family members to ensure that everyone can take part in the rehabilitation process and encourage the dog’s progress. This way, everyone in the family can help your dog heal.
Your dog’s progress will be meticulously documented by your canine rehabilitation therapist, who will also keep track of the specific therapies your dog has received, evaluate the effectiveness of rehabilitation plans, create exercise schedules that you and your dog can follow at home, schedule check-ups to record the healing process, and assess your home for any potential effects on the dog’s functional status.
Costs for veterinarian visits vary based on the type of treatment required, the therapist’s training and experience, and the location. Individual treatment sessions can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 or more, and initial consultations usually run between $100 and $200. The number of sessions needed for treatment determines the overall cost. Costs can be cut by using do-it-yourself therapies and home fitness regimens.
As long as the dog is insured prior to being sick or wounded, several pet insurance companies will pay for holistic and alternative therapies, including canine rehabilitation. For this reason, insurance specialists advise getting coverage for young, healthy dogs well in advance of the onset of any pre-existing conditions that might prevent coverage.
You understand the value of rehabilitation therapy if you have ever worked with a physical therapist following a disabling injury or illness, a broken bone, or a torn ligament. When the time comes, as an informed pet owner, you can be prepared to provide the same hands-on care for your dog by locating a canine rehabilitation therapist.
For more information on your dog physical therapy and how our Posh Dog Knee Brace helps in your dogs recovery contact us via our contact form or visit our Facebook page.
