Arthritis

How do I know if my dog has arthritis? How can I tell if my dog is in pain? Do young dogs get arthritis? I have just found out my dog has arthritis-what do I do?

Our canine arthritis consultations are highly influenced by CAM’s approach, with some of our therapists holding CAM Advocate Status. We are keen to support our canine companions with this degenerative condition, as it is considered a welfare issue for dogs in the UK when left untreated. Understanding your individual dog’s situation is a thorough and collaborative process between the pet owner and the physiotherapist to assess the dog’s condition and develop an effective treatment plan. Here is an overview of how such a consultation might unfold:

We highly recommend that you join Holly’s Army – where you will find more personalised support and advice from vets, nurses, physios and others also living with arthritic dogs.

Free Downloads

Preliminary Information

The consultation begins with the physiotherapist gathering essential information about the dog, including its breed, age, medical history, and any previous diagnoses or treatments. We will ask about your dog’s everyday routine, behaviours and habits.

Veterinary Referral

In many cases, a veterinary referral may be required before initiating physiotherapy. The physiotherapist may request relevant veterinary records and collaborate with the veterinarian to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the dog’s health.

Initial Assessment

The physiotherapist performs a comprehensive physical examination, assessing the dog’s gait, range of motion, muscle strength, joint flexibility, and overall mobility. This assessment helps identify areas of discomfort, stiffness, or weakness. We will take a body condition score and weigh your dog.

Client Input

The pet owner plays a crucial role in the consultation. They provide insights into the dog’s behavior, daily activities, any observed changes, and specific concerns. This information helps in understanding the dog’s lifestyle and tailoring the treatment plan accordingly.

Joint Palpation and Mobility Testing

The physiotherapist conducts joint palpation to identify areas of inflammation, pain, or sensitivity. Mobility testing is performed to assess how well the joints move and to identify any restrictions.

Treatment Options Discussion

Based on the assessment findings, the physiotherapist discusses potential treatment options with the pet owner. This may include therapeutic exercises, massage, joint mobilization, aquatic therapy (hydrotherapy), heat or cold therapy, and other modalities.

Customized Treatment Plan

A personalized treatment plan is developed collaboratively, taking into account the dog’s specific condition, overall health, and the owner’s ability to implement the plan at home. The plan may include both in-clinic sessions and at-home exercises. We will follow up after this with some nutritional and supplement advice. We are not sponsored or driven by any nutraceutical or dietary companies which means our advice is absolutely independent.

Education and Home Care Instructions

The physiotherapist educates the pet owner on the nature of arthritis, the goals of physiotherapy, and the importance of consistent at-home care. Clear instructions are provided on how to perform prescribed exercises, administer medications, and monitor the dog’s progress. We want you to be empowered at home so we will teach you easy techniques and exercises that you can incorporate into your daily relationship with your own dog in between treatment sessions. We will also help you to evaluate small environmental changes within your dog’s home that can make all the difference to your dog’s everyday life.

Follow-Up Appointments

Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the dog’s response to treatment, adjust the plan as needed, and address any concerns or questions from the pet owner. We aim to leave you in control; by teaching you how to use Client Specific Outcome Measures. Through monitoring your dog’s individual pain/ coping indicators, YOU can gauge improvement or deterioration and act accordingly.

Collaboration with Veterinarian

Ongoing communication between the physiotherapist and the veterinarian is maintained to provide a holistic approach to the dog’s care. Adjustments to the treatment plan can be made in collaboration with the veterinary team.

Throughout the consultation, a compassionate and patient-centered approach is maintained to ensure the well-being and comfort of the canine patient. Regular reassessment and adjustments to the treatment plan contribute to the overall success of canine arthritis physiotherapy.

Email Address

Location

The Gold Standard In Physiotherapy And Hydrotherapy For Dogs