Hydrotherapy for senior canines is a rapidly expanding field that has gained popularity for its numerous benefits in promoting the well-being of our doggo friends. As dogs age, they often face various health challenges, including arthritis, muscle atrophy, and joint stiffness. Hydrotherapy, which involves exercising in water, has proven to be a valuable therapeutic option for senior dogs. Below we will explore the benefits of hydrotherapy for senior canines and why it is becoming a preferred choice for many pet owners.

In addition to physical benefits, hydrotherapy fosters a strong bond between dogs and their human companions. The supportive and encouraging environment created during hydrotherapy sessions enhances the relationship, making it a positive experience for both the canine and the owner. This is particularly valuable for senior dogs who may be dealing with the challenges of aging, as the emotional connection plays a crucial role in their overall well-being.

With all of that being said, below are my 7 recommendations as to why introducing hydrotherapy to the routine of a senior canine is so important to not only their lives but also to their position in your family unit.

1. Low-Impact Exercise:
One of the primary advantages of hydrotherapy for senior canines is that it provides a low-impact form of exercise. Aging dogs, much like aging humans, may struggle with joint pain and arthritis. Traditional forms of exercise can exacerbate these conditions. Hydrotherapy, however, allows dogs to move their joints and muscles without putting excessive pressure on them. The buoyancy of the water reduces the impact on their limbs, making it an ideal option for senior dogs to maintain mobility.
2. Pain Management:
Hydrotherapy is an effective way to manage pain in senior canines. The warm water used in hydrotherapy sessions helps to soothe achy joints and muscles, providing relief from discomfort. The water's buoyancy also reduces the gravitational force on the dog's body, minimising pain associated with movement. For senior dogs with conditions like osteoarthritis, hydrotherapy can be a valuable component of a comprehensive pain management plan.
3. Improved Range of Motion:
As dogs age, they may experience a decrease in their range of motion. Hydrotherapy encourages a full range of joint movements, helping to improve flexibility and overall mobility. The resistance of the water ensures that dogs engage in various muscle groups during their exercises, leading to enhanced joint flexibility. This increased range of motion can contribute to a better quality of life for senior canines.
4. Muscle Strengthening:
Muscle atrophy is a common issue in aging dogs due to reduced activity levels. Hydrotherapy provides a controlled environment for dogs to exercise their muscles, promoting strength and endurance. The resistance offered by the water requires more effort from the muscles, contributing to the development of lean muscle mass. This can be particularly beneficial for senior canines who may be experiencing weakness or muscle loss.
5. Weight Management:
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for the overall well-being of senior dogs. Excess weight can exacerbate joint issues and contribute to a decline in mobility. Hydrotherapy offers a weightless environment, allowing senior canines to engage in physical activity without putting undue stress on their joints. Regular hydrotherapy sessions can assist in weight management and help senior dogs maintain a healthy body condition.
6. Enhanced Circulation:
Hydrotherapy promotes improved blood circulation, which is essential for the health of senior canines. The warm water causes blood vessels to dilate, facilitating better blood flow to muscles and joints. This enhanced circulation can accelerate the healing process, reduce inflammation, and contribute to the overall vitality of aging dogs.
7. Stress Reduction:
The calming effect of water can help alleviate stress and anxiety in senior canines. Hydrotherapy sessions provide a soothing and enjoyable experience, creating a positive association with physical activity. This is especially beneficial for dogs dealing with age-related anxiety or those who may be hesitant to engage in traditional forms of exercise.
It's essential to note that hydrotherapy should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a qualified professional. A certified canine hydrotherapist can tailor the hydrotherapy program to address the specific needs and health conditions of senior dogs. Individualised sessions ensure that the intensity and duration of exercises are suitable for the dog's age, fitness level, and health status.
Hydrotherapy is proving to be a valuable tool in caring for the health and well-being of senior canines. Its low-impact nature, coupled with a range of physical and psychological benefits, makes it a preferred choice for many pet owners seeking holistic approaches to senior dog care. As we continue to prioritise the health and happiness of our doggos, hydrotherapy stands out as a therapeutic and enjoyable option for senior dogs in their golden years.

As a canine physiotherapist, I see many injuries and pathologies in dogs ranging from spinal disease to hip dysplasia to ACL injuries. One injury that tends to alarm doggo owners more so than others is a condition called carpal hyperextension. 
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What is Carpal Hyperextension?
Carpal hyperextension, also known as "dropped wrist" or "down pastern," is a condition that affects a dog's front legs. This occurs when the carpus, which is the equivalent of the human wrist in dogs, extends beyond its normal range, causing instability and discomfort. In simple terms, it's like a dog's wrist bending backward more than it should and the supporting ligaments can become lengthened and stretched.  A normal wrist has straight upright legs while a hyperextended wrist is flatfooted in appearance. 

Causes of Carpal Hyperextension

1. Genetics: Some breeds are more prone to carpal hyperextension due to their genetic predisposition. Breeds like Great Danes, Doberman Pinschers, and Basset Hounds are more commonly affected.
2. Developmental Abnormality: Carpal hyperextension in young dogs is caused as a result of weakened ligaments. It is often seen in large breed puppies such as Great Danes and causes can range from inadequate nutrition to rapid growth however, sometimes no underlying cause is identified. 
3. Trauma or Injury: Accidents, falls, or repetitive stress on the front legs can lead to carpal hyperextension where the ligaments get stretched or torn and is a common cause of carpal hyperextension in dogs. 
4. Overuse: Working dogs or those involved in strenuous activities might develop this condition over time.

Greyhounds are known for their remarkable speed and agility, as well as their gentle temperament, making them a popular choice for many pet owners, especially when they take up residence on the couch! Although Greyhounds are less susceptible to developing CCL injuries or other acute orthopaedic injuries than other breeds, there is a common problem that often goes unnoticed but can cause severe lameness: the development of corns on their paw pads. This can be a painful condition that is often compared to the feeling of having a stone in your shoe while walking. Lets take a closer look at what these ‘corns' are, how to identify them, and how to treat them effectively.

Causes:
Corns in Greyhounds are hard, painful growths that typically appear on the paw pads. The exact cause of corns remains elusive, but several factors are believed to contribute:

1. Genetics: Some Greyhounds may have a genetic predisposition to developing corns, as they are more prevalent in certain bloodlines and sighthound breeds.
2. Weight Distribution: Greyhounds have slender legs and a unique weight distribution. The pressure placed on their paw pads during high-speed running can lead to the development of corns.
3. Environmental Factors: Walking on abrasive surfaces, such as concrete or gravel, can exacerbate the formation of corns over time.

Prevention: 
Maintaining the paw health of your Greyhound involves a proactive approach to prevent the development of corns. Several key preventative measures should be considered. Firstly, regular paw care is essential; frequent inspections of your Greyhound's paw pads help in the early detection of corns or any signs of damage. Secondly, proper conditioning of the paw pads is crucial, as keeping them moisturised and well-conditioned can help prevent excessive dryness, which is a contributing factor to corn formation. Additionally, weight management plays a significant role in preventing corns, as maintaining a healthy weight reduces the pressure exerted on the paw pads during physical activities. Lastly, it's advisable to choose walking surfaces carefully; whenever possible, opt for softer terrains like grass or sand, which can reduce the risk of corn development by minimising the abrasive effects on your Greyhound's paws.

 Corns can be a painful and debilitating condition for Greyhounds, causing acute lameness and distress. If you suspect your Greyhound has developed a corn, seek veterinary care promptly. By understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and exploring treatment options, you can help your doggo regain their agility and comfort, ensuring they continue to enjoy their active lifestyle.
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Harnesses for Dogs Pros:

1. Even Distribution of Pressure: Harnesses distribute the force evenly across your dog's chest and shoulders, reducing the risk of neck strain or injury, making them an excellent choice for dogs that pull on the leash. They generally come in two different types; a restrictive harness or a Y harness 
2. Added Security: Harnesses provide added security, minimizing the chances of your dog slipping out of their collar.
3. Ideal for Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs with flat faces, such as bulldogs or pugs, benefit from harnesses as they reduce the risk of respiratory distress that can be caused by collars.
4. Types of harnesses: Generally speaking, harnesses come in two different types; the Y-shaped harness and the restrictive harness. The former sits close to the neck and loops under the chest while the restrictive straps across the front of the shoulders. There is speculation that the restrictive harness can limit the mobility of the shoulder while the Y-shaped harness can compress through the base of the neck if not fitted right.

Cons:

1. Not Ideal for Houdini Dogs: Some dogs are masters at escaping harnesses, so it's essential to choose a well-fitted and secure option if your dog tends to be an escape artist.
2. Size and Bulk: Some harnesses can be bulky and might not be suitable for very small dogs or dogs with thick fur. Look for lightweight and adjustable options.
3. Training Challenges: While harnesses are excellent for control, they might not offer the same level of training assistance as collars, which can make leash training a bit more challenging.

Anatomical Consideration

Understanding your dog's anatomy is crucial when deciding between a collar and a harness:

1. Neck Sensitivity: Dogs with sensitive necks or specific medical conditions, like cervical spine issues, should typically use harnesses to avoid exacerbating these problems.
2. Spinal column and intervertebral discs: There are seven vertebrae in the dog's neck separated by discs. Tension in these areas can cause injury to the spinal cord (housed inside the vertebral column) joints within the vertebra themselves or the discs. 
3. Muscles: You should always be thinking about 'what lies underneath the collar' if your dog is a regular puller or is prone to cervical spine issues.  There is a multitude of muscles that lie under the collar to help hold the dog's head up against gravity.  Collars can go on to cause muscle pain, stains or even contusions! Likewise, there are some important tendons and muscles that cross over the shoulder joint where a harness sits such as the bicep or supraspinatus tendon. 
4. Skin: When harnesses are in contact with skin, especially under the armpits and around the chest, they can cause skin irritations, especially if they are left on for too long or become wet.
5. Lymphatic system: The lymphatic system is a collection of tubules and nodes, filled with fluid, that help our immune system.  A collar can cause compression on these vital organs and cause swelling or impaired immunity. 
6. Respiratory Health: Breeds with flat faces (brachycephalic breeds) or respiratory issues should use harnesses to prevent pressure on their airways. The trachea is the windpipe which is C-shaped and has cartilage-shaped rings around it.  These rings can become impaired with a collar and can squeeze the trachea resulting in respiratory issues. 
7. Blood Vessels: Damage to the important arteries and blood vessels in the neck can lead to impaired blood flow to the brain due to pressure.
8. Nerves:  On either side of the neck are paired nerves that supply the neck and also the front limbs of the dog.  Pressure to these can lead to neurological signs and symptoms such as weakness, pain and impaired motor function. 
9. Thyroid:  This small, butterfly-shaped gland regulates metabolism, body temperature, heart and respiratory rate, brain development, cell growth, and mood. Mechanical pressure by a collar can damage this gland and cause issues like hypothyroidism. 

 As a physiotherapist, I understand the significance of recognising and addressing postural adaptations, especially in our canine amputees. There are several reasons for postural adaptations, such as injury or trauma, muscle weakness and imbalance, and to alleviate pain and discomfort, to name a few. These adaptations can significantly affect a dog's overall function and well-being. Dogs cannot express their pain or discomfort in words, making it a challenge to diagnose and treat their specific needs. In this blog post, we will specifically discuss the various postural adaptations that occur in dogs following front-limb and hind-limb amputations. We will also explore how the field of physiotherapy can play an indispensable role in their road to recovery.

Postural Adaptations in Front Limb Amputees:
Losing a limb is a significant change for any dog. However, dogs usually adapt quickly after removing a limb, especially younger ones. But younger dogs have to spend the rest of their lives adjusting and potentially overusing their remaining limbs to compensate. On the other hand, older dogs may not adapt as fast, but they have a shorter period to adjust their posture and experience less load through the remaining limbs. In cases of front limb amputation, dogs tend to shift 14% of their weight into the remaining front leg and 17% into their hind end (Jarvis et al 2013.) This adaptation can lead to an increased strain on the remaining carpus joint (equivalent to the wrist joint,) which can flatten out and become extended over time. This condition is called carpal hyperextension.

My parents are from a generation where they’ll innocently ask “What do you want to be when you grow up!?” I’ve listened intently to our children answer this question over the years and from time to time, I find myself shocked at their responses. From basketball players and artists to scientists and student support assistants, their answers change yearly based on their current passions.

 Insights from a Canine Physiotherapist

Canine rehabilitation and physiotherapy have seen a lot of innovative advancements in recent times. One such tool is the underwater treadmill, which is fast becoming a staple in the physiotherapists clinic. The underwater treadmill offers a wide range of advantages that can help dogs regain their strength and mobility. As a canine physiotherapist, I've seen the impact of underwater treadmill therapy firsthand. Lets take a look into the many advantages it offers to our doggo's overall wellbeing.

Understanding the Underwater Treadmill
The underwater treadmill is a fairly impressive piece of equipment designed with the well-being of dogs in mind. It's a treadmill submerged in a tank of warm water, usually to the tune of 32deg celcius with the depth of the water and the treadmill's speed adjustable to meet the unique needs of each dog.

 Benefits of Underwater Treadmill Therapy

1. Low-Impact Exercise for All Ages and Abilities: One of the standout features of underwater treadmill therapy is its low-impact nature. It's suitable for dogs of all ages, from puppies to seniors, and even those with arthritis or joint issues. The buoyancy of the water significantly reduces the stress on joints, making it an excellent choice for rehabilitation.
   Tip: This low-impact exercise is particularly beneficial for dogs recovering from surgery, as it minimises strain on surgical sites.
2. Improved Range of Motion and Flexibility: The natural resistance of water encourages dogs to move their limbs through a full range of motion. This not only helps in improving flexibility but also aids in the prevention of muscle atrophy, especially for dogs recovering from surgery or injury.
3. Muscle Strengthening: As dogs walk or trot against the water's resistance, they engage their muscles more effectively than they would on dry land. This helps build and tone muscles, which is especially valuable for dogs regaining strength after surgery or dealing with muscle-related issues.
4. Effective Cardiovascular Workout: The buoyancy of water makes the heart work harder without putting excess strain on the dog's body. It's a great way to improve cardiovascular fitness, which is essential for overall health.
5. Pain Reduction and Management: The hydrostatic pressure of water reduces swelling and inflammation, which can help alleviate pain. This is particularly beneficial for dogs with conditions like osteoarthritis or those recovering from orthopaedic surgeries.
6. Enhanced Rehabilitation Post-Surgery: Underwater treadmill therapy is commonly used in post-surgical rehabilitation. It can speed up the healing process by promoting circulation, reducing recovery time, and helping dogs regain their strength and mobility faster.
7. Weight Management: Weight management is crucial for overall health, and the buoyancy of water supports weight loss programs. Dogs can burn calories effectively in the underwater treadmill while reducing the risk of injury due to excessive weight-bearing on joints.
   Tip: Combining underwater treadmill therapy with a balanced diet can yield exceptional results in weight management.
8. Stress Reduction and Mental Well-Being: Many dogs find the warm water and gentle exercise in the underwater treadmill soothing. It can reduce stress and anxiety, making it an enjoyable experience for them. This aspect is particularly valuable for dogs with behavioural issues or those dealing with emotional trauma.
9. Therapeutic for Neurological Conditions: Underwater treadmill therapy can be beneficial for dogs with neurological conditions, as it allows them to move their limbs in a controlled environment. This aids in neural re-education and can contribute to improved motor function.
10. Tailored Rehabilitation Plans: Each dog is unique, and underwater treadmill therapy can be tailored to meet their specific needs. The water level, speed, duration of the sessions, and even the addition of resistance jets can be adjusted based on the dog's condition, progress, and rehabilitation goals.

Canine rehabilitation therapists and physiotherapists often make use of the underwater treadmill, which is a highly versatile and therapeutic tool. It offers a low-impact workout that can help improve the health and well-being of dogs, whether they are recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or simply looking for a great fitness routine. With an underwater treadmill, dogs can exercise in a safe and comfortable environment, making it a highly effective solution.

As our doggos grow older, they enter a new phase of life that requires somewhat, a little TLC.  We have all seen it growing up; Nan or Grandpa slowly slowing down before our eyes and just as humans experience changes as they age, so do our dogs. In this post, I have put together a few tips and tricks to think about and to guide you through the process of caring for your senior dog and helping you provide them with the best possible quality of life during their golden years. But first things first, we need to understand with dogs, what is considered ' senior.'

Understanding the Aging Process
Determining when a dog is considered 'old' or 'senior' is not as straightforward as one might think. The aging process of dogs varies depending on their breed and size. The old way of multiplying a dog's age by seven to determine their equivalent human age is not accurate. However, as a general guideline, we can consider the following:

1. Small Breeds: Dogs weighing under 9 KG are often considered seniors at around 10-12 years of age.
2. Medium Breeds: Medium-sized dogs typically become seniors around 8-10 years old.
3. Large and Giant Breeds: Larger dogs may be considered seniors as early as 6-7 years old.

Low-level laser therapy is  fast becoming a heavy player in the veterinary and animal physiotherapy world as an alternative or complementary treatment. Nowadays, dog owners are searching for the best treatment available to enhance their dogs' quality of life, and low-level laser therapy is a great option. It's a non-invasive, painless approach to pain treatment that helps support the healing process. Let's explore the uses and benefits of LLLT for our dogs in need

What Is LLLT?
Low-Level Laser Therapy, also known as cold laser, is a medical treatment that uses low-intensity lasers or light emitting diodes (LEDs) to stimulate healing and reduce pain at the cellular level. Unlike surgical lasers that use heat to cut or burn tissue, LLLT uses near infrared light to target specific areas of the body without damaging surrounding tissue. 

Bringing a new puppy into your life is an exciting adventure filled with joy and boundless energy. While you enjoy watching your pup explore the world with eagerness, it's essential to maintain a balance between letting them be active and ensuring their physical development progresses in the right direction. A common concern that new puppy owners have is 'How much exercise should my pup get?' The response is not as straightforward as you may think. There are some generic 'rules' still circulating out there, such as '5 minutes of exercise for each month of age,' which fails to consider the type of workout, the breed characteristics of the dog, their behavior and health, and of course, the adjustment of exercise as you go.

Understanding Puppy Development
Puppies undergo rapid growth during their early months, with their bones, muscles, and joints developing at an astonishing pace. While exercise is vital for their overall health, it's important to be mindful of the types and amounts of activities you introduce, as excessive or inappropriate exercise can lead to serious musculoskeletal issues.
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The Importance of Controlled Exercise
It's important to note that puppies are not miniature adults. Their growing bodies are more susceptible to injuries caused by excessive stress. Overexertion, repetitive high-impact activities, or vigorous play can harm their developing joints and lead to problems like growth plate injuries and joint dysplasia. To ensure your puppy's healthy growth, here are some guidelines to consider: