McTimoney Chiropractic and sports massage is an all over treatment designed to relieve muscle tension, gently realign your animals spine and pelvis, and reduce or eliminate pain and discomfort. So your dog is feeling fab after their treatment, what can you do to make the most of their session and care for them in between K9 chiropractor visits?
So what can I do to help my dog in between Chiropractic and sports massage sessions?
1) Follow the Aftercare Advice
After your dog’s treatment I will give detailed aftercare advice for you to follow. I know this is sometimes hard to implement but the closer you follow the care the more your dog will get out of the session.
For example, I will need you to limit your dogs exercise and try to stop play for 24/48 hours if possible. If your dog is allowed to run around like crazy after the treatment it can easily put everything back to how it was before and your dog will need seeing again a lot sooner.
I may also ask you to implement some more long term adjustments such as not allowing your dog to run up and down stairs and lifting them in and out of the car or using a ramp. Again these are important to potentially stop your dog reinjuring themselves.
Please try to do any specific exercises, stretches and massage I give as again these will aid your dog.
2) Recognise when your dog needs a follow up treatment
I will discuss with you and show you as much as possible where your dog is painful. This is so that if you notice the pain responses returning you can call me for a follow up. Also I will discuss your dog’s gait with you and explain how their movement is affected by discomfort. In this way you can keep an eye on them and again, call me if you notice any discomfort returning. My website has further details of how to know when your dog is is in pain.
3) Keep your dog healthy
It is vital to keep your dog as healthy as possible to prevent heath problems occurring or returning. This includes:
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Feeding a good quality food and maintaining a healthy weight
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Good dental care and hygiene
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Coat maintenance to prevent mats and skin problems
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Keeping their nails trimmed regularly to reduce abnormal pressure on their joints.
4) Consider other therapies
As part of your aftercare I will sometimes suggest other therapies such as hydrotherapy, swimming or acupuncture. If its possible, these therapies could really help your dog recover and stay pain free. I will talk to you about these therapies if I feel your dog would benefit and if necessary refer you back to the vet as sometimes, with veterinary referral, these therapies are covered on your insurance.
I hope these pointers will help you look after your dog between sessions and to recognise when they may be in need of a follow up.
Book a McTimoney Canine Chiropractic Treatment
Areas covered in UK: Worcestershire and surrounding counties.
Book a McTimoney Canine Chiropractic Treatment or Call Emily Walters on 07983 565 438
