McTimoney for your Dog…
Unlike our equine companions, we do not place such physical demands on our canine friends. However, dogs can be just as susceptible to back pain as horses, whether they are domestic pets, working dogs, obedience or show dogs.
Photo by ‘Coalcroft photography’
Common causes of back pain in the dog are:
- Compensations from musculoskeletal conditions or injury – a dog with an injury to its leg will adapt its posture and gait, this compensatory movement pattern can manifest secondary sites of musculoskeletal dysfunction and pain.
- Repetitive/demanding work regime
- Constant pulling on the lead
- Playing rough with other dog or toys
- Conformational deficits and compensations
- Carrying excess weight
A dogs good nature and instinctive ‘need to please’ their owner can cause them to work through any pain and never complain. Therefore, it is important to be aware of signs of back pain.
Common signs and symptoms that your dog could be experiencing back pain and discomfort are:
- Resistance or refusal to go on walks or play
- Unlevel paces and change in gait
- Having difficulties or refusing to jump in or out the car, or go up and down stairs
- Decline in performance
- Stiffness after periods of rest
- Uneven claw wear
- Appearing sensitive and sore to touch/groomed
- Toe dragging or uneven claw wear
- Muscle atrophy or asymmetrical muscle tone
- Constantly favouring one side to lie or sit down on
- Uncharacteristically showing signs of aggression
- Change in behaviour and general demeanour
Your dog will need a reviewed exercise regime and rest post treatments, please do not arrange a McTimoney treatment for your dog the day before a competition or strenuous work.
If your dog presents lame and has not been assessed or diagnosed by the vet, treatment cannot proceed and referral to the vet is required.
Please remember, as with all complementary treatments for animals and in accordance with the 1966 Veterinary Surgeons Act, veterinary permission must be granted prior to treatment.
