How can osteopathy help your dog?
What can Osteopathy treat?
There are a wide range of symptoms or issues that indicate your dog could benefit from osteopathic treatment. If you notice one or more of the following then please get in touch:
- Poor performance levels.
- A reluctance to exercise - particularly if a recent change.
- Lameness - including intermittent lameness or favouring one leg.
- Changes to gait - a change in the way of going.
- Changes in head or tail carriage.
- Inability to track straight - the dog seems to be bent to one side through the back or pelvis.
- Discomfort standing - the dog may shift position frequently or refuse to stand square.
- Stiffness.
- Injuries from falls, training, or other activities.
- Problems bending in one direction - may be very obvious in agility dogs weaving around poles.
- Problems with jumping or performing other activities.
- Age related issues e.g. arthritis. Although arthritis can not be cured, osteopathy can help maintain mobility and keep the dog active for longer.
- Changes in behaviour - as this may be due to musculoskeletal pain.
If you notice any other symptoms please contact me to see if osteopathic treatment may be appropriate.
My dog doesn't have any of these issues, could it still benefit from treatment?
Osteopathy can help all dogs, even if exhibiting no obvious symptoms. Osteopathy uses a holisitic approach to check the function of all areas of your dog's body. In this way minor issues and restrictions can be identified and treated before they lead to more serious problems in the future.
Many owners will book their dogs in for maintenance treatments every 3-6 months to help improve joint mobility, elasticity of muscles and general well-being.
What to expect from a session.
I normally treat dogs in their own home. In this way the dog is usually more relaxed. I can also attend sessions of clubs and classes such as agility or flyball groups and treat a number of dogs in the same location - allowing the owners to share the travel fees associated with treatment.
I will take a case history, asking questions about previous injuries and illness. The dog will be assessed at walk, trot, performing circles and standing. I will then work through the whole body to assess for areas of dysfunction e.g. joint restriction and muscle tightness. Usually any issues are treated as they are identified. No sedation is used during treatment.
You will be advised on any restrictions to activity that will aid recovery, and any activities to avoid in the future.