Exercise for dogs with torn cruciate ligaments

Exercise for dogs with torn cruciate ligaments

A torn cruciate ligament in dogs often requires the right exercise for dogs with a torn cruciate ligament. A torn cruciate ligament in a dog can have serious consequences and usually requires comprehensive treatment.

In addition to medical measures, targeted training can help support the healing process and restore the dog's confidence in its legs. In this article we will introduce you to two exercises specifically aimed at helping dogs with cruciate ligament tears.

The slalom exercise for dogs with cruciate ligament tears

This exercise is designed to improve the dog's mobility, movement and coordination. It requires four to five obstacles placed in a straight line on flat ground. The optimal distance between the obstacles is about a dog's length.

The dog is led slowly and gently through the obstacles on a short leash, shifting his weight from one side of his body to the other and putting even weight on his legs. The dog should be praised for each successful completion of the exercise. It is recommended to perform this exercise once a day with two repetitions each for optimal effect.

The paw raising exercise for dogs with cruciate ligament tears

This exercise aims to strengthen the running muscles and train the dog's coordination. The dog stands on a non-slip surface while the owner crouches next to him and slightly lifts the foreleg (above the paw) to take the pressure off the leg for about 3-5 seconds.

On the hind legs, the barrel is gripped above the paw and bent slightly. It is recommended to start with two repetitions per run twice a day and gradually increase the duration of the hold up to 15 seconds.

Extra tip for dogs with torn cruciate ligaments

If the dog does not want to put weight on his affected leg after a cruciate ligament tear, a hair tie can be placed around the affected hind leg (above the paw) of the affected hind leg. This can help him become aware of his leg and help him regain use of all four legs.

It is important to note that every dog ​​is different and has different daily routines. It is therefore advisable to adjust the training intensity accordingly.

Exercise for dogs with torn cruciate ligaments
Exercise for dogs with torn cruciate ligaments 4

physical therapy

Unfortunately, some veterinary clinics and veterinarians neglect this important aspect by either not addressing physical therapy at all or only starting it after 6-8 weeks. In comparison, in humans, physiotherapy is started on the third day after joint surgery.

However, timely physical therapy can help speed up the healing process and improve the dog's well-being. Just three days after the operation, relaxing massages, light joint movements and decongesting lymphatic massages can be carried out to restore joint mobility. A complete restoration of joint mobility should be achieved after approx. 3-4 months.

In addition, it is important to carry out regular physio and osteotherapy treatments to reduce the progression of osteoarthritis and minimize the consequences of incorrect loading. Neglected physical therapy can lead to serious symptoms such as muscle atrophy, muscle contractures, progressive cartilage degeneration, and painful spinal muscle tension.

It is therefore advisable to involve a well-trained therapist and to actively involve the owner in the therapy plan. The exercises should be performed slowly and carefully and the intensity should be increased slowly. Close physical therapy can help speed up the healing process and improve the dog's well-being.

It is therefore important that dog owners ensure that early physiotherapy is integrated into the treatment plan if their dog undergoes cruciate ligament surgery. Good cooperation between veterinarian and therapist is crucial.

Dog owners should ensure that the therapist always adapts the treatment to the dog's condition and the surgical technique used. In addition, the exercises should be carried out independently, several times a day and under the guidance of a therapist.

Some animal hospitals and veterinarians have already recognized the importance of early physical therapy in treating cruciate ligament tears. There are specialist practices that specialize in the treatment of cruciate ligament tears in dogs and offer early physiotherapy as an integral part of treatment.

In summary

Targeted exercise support for dogs with cruciate ligament ruptures through targeted training can make a positive contribution to the healing process and restore the dog's confidence in its legs. The exercises presented here can help strengthen the muscles, improve movement and train coordination.

However, it is important to consult a veterinarian before beginning training and to ensure that the exercise for dogs with cruciate ligament rupture is appropriate for the individual dog. It is also advisable to carry out the training under the guidance of an experienced trainer or veterinarian in order to achieve optimal effect.

Overall, the exercises presented here are a useful addition to the medical treatment of dogs with cruciate ligament tears. They can help speed up the healing process and improve the dog's well-being.

If you have any further questions about the exercises or would like specific tips on other medical conditions, please feel free to contact us, physiotherapists or trainers.

Early and close physiotherapy is essential in the treatment of cruciate ligament tears in dogs. Dog owners should ensure that there is good cooperation between the veterinarian and the therapist and that the exercises are carried out regularly and under supervision.

Neglected physiotherapy can lead to serious symptoms and have a negative impact on the healing process. However, with targeted and professional support, dog owners can help their dog get back on their feet quickly and lead a pain-free life.

With targeted and professional support, you can help your dog get back on his feet quickly.

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