… osteopathy can keep your dogs fit and active

Dogs can benefit from osteopathy.

Many of the problems they suffer are similar to humans; they can sustain common back and neck injuries, muscle tensions, or ligament and tendon damage, which can be treated by osteopathy.

I have a treatment room for animals such as cats and dogs at my practice in central Norfolk.

Regular treatments can maintain strength, improve mobility and flexibility and even enhance performance in dogs in a competitive environment.

My aim is to reduce pain and discomfort and enable animals to lead active, healthy lives. In addition I will offer advice to owners on how to keep their pets and livestock injury-free.

Call me on 01362 858530 for treatments for your companion.

Canine Osteopathy

Whether it is a working dog, an agility animal, or a beloved companion, canines can sustain injuries.

They can suffer from back and neck injuries, or from poor movement and mobility, but these can be eased through osteopathy.

With agility dogs, such injuries may be through poor landings or twisting; hamstring and hip injuries to rear legs; or RSI (repetitive strain injury) through constant training.

Household pets can hurt themselves too, either from a fall or playful over-exuberance in the park with other dogs or misjudging jumps.

Puppies can even be hurt in the litter by their fellow pups or the mother accidentally sitting on it.

Treatment is similar to humans with diagnosis and assessment and then massage and manipulation, laser therapies and technical interventions, as well as rest.

I work closely with vets and will always refer a case to a veterinary surgeon where necessary.

Temperament changes can be an indicator of a problem in a dog, but other symptoms to look out for include:

• 'Misjudging' jumps
• Disc injuries
• OCD elbow, hocks, hips
• Resistance to turning in one direction
• Reluctance to jump
• Lameness when alternative causes have been ruled out
• Change in performance
• Pain on getting up
• Difficulty climbing stairs or getting into cars
• Degenerative changes
• General stiffness