Post-surgery rehabilitation for dogs is crucial to ensure their speedy recovery and optimal return to physical function.
Canine Remedial Massage, Animal Laser Therapy, and Canine Exercise and Rehabilitation are three complementary approaches that can be implemented post-surgery to aid in a dog's recovery.
Here's how each can be applied:
Canine remedial massage involves hands-on techniques to manipulate soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It aims to alleviate muscle tension, improve circulation, reduce pain, and enhance relaxation.
Assessment: Begin with a thorough assessment of the dog's condition, including the surgical site, range of motion, and any pain or discomfort.
Tailored Treatment: Develop a massage therapy plan tailored to the dog's specific needs and the type of surgery performed. For example, if the surgery involved the limbs, focus on those areas.
Gentle Techniques: Use gentle and non-invasive massage techniques, ensuring not to put direct pressure on the surgical site.
Pain Management: Address pain and discomfort by targeting muscle spasms and promoting relaxation.
Regular Sessions: Schedule regular massage sessions, gradually increasing intensity and duration as the dog progresses in their recovery.
Animal laser therapy involves the use of low-level lasers to stimulate tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. It is non-invasive and safe for dogs.
Treatment Protocol: Administer laser therapy sessions directly to the surgical area, focusing on reducing inflammation and accelerating tissue healing.
Frequency: The frequency and duration of laser therapy sessions should be determined, but typically, multiple sessions per week may be required initially.
Monitoring: Regularly assess the dog's progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Canine exercise and rehabilitation involve structured physical activities to improve strength, flexibility, and overall mobility. It aids in preventing muscle atrophy and maintaining joint health.
Gradual Progression: Start with low-impact exercises and gradually increase intensity and duration as the dog's condition improves.
Range of Motion: Include exercises that focus on maintaining or improving the dog's range of motion in affected joints or limbs.
Supervision: Ensure that exercises are performed correctly and under supervision to prevent overexertion or injury.
Consistency: Consistency is key; adhere to the prescribed rehabilitation plan and track the dog's progress.
Incorporating these three approaches post-surgery can significantly enhance a dog's recovery process. However, it's essential that I work closely with your veterinarian to create a comprehensive and customized rehabilitation plan based on the specific surgery, the dog's age, breed, and overall health. Regular monitoring and adjustments to the plan will help ensure a successful recovery.
The first appointment will need to be a 1 hour treatment and I recommend purchasing a 6 x 1 hour Concession Package, where you get 1 free treatment. The first 2 weeks will require 3 x 1 hour treatments, then dropping down to 2 x 1 hour treatments for 2 weeks. and then reassess.