Dogs Not Performing Like Normal

[lurcher man george 16]

In in the south east I've found two people now but will keep posted about the dog

[sandymere 8,263]

Have you checked it over yourself? its sensible to do so weekly even when well . Wrote this back along

 

It is a good idea to check all joints on a weekly basis to monitor for early niggles such as minor sprains this also gets one familiar with the size, feel and normal range of movements of joints, when one knows how they should feel and move changes can be more easily identified. If unsure with an injury compare the opposite leg as a reference and have a low threshold for seeking expert advice. Minor sprains can often be picked up before they become overtly symptomatic with weekly checks allowing the opportunity to instigate restorative rehab to avert more serious problems developing. Sprains are injuries to ligaments, usually through stretching beyond their normal range and can be simple with just over stretching or more complex when there is damage such as tearing involved. Tendons have a poor blood supply so healing can be slow and problematic hence the importance of catching minor sprains before there is substantial weakening or tearing involved. Healing tendons have scar tissue which will become a weak point for the future and each incidence will build on the problem to cause further trouble. The worst case sprains lead to rupture and as with fractures any suspicion will need a veterinary opinion.

 

 

Personally I take lameness seriously until I know it’s not anything to worry about, at the first signs I check the dog over and act according to what I find. A simple thorn will be removed and work continued as will a knock that resolves with a bit of a check and rub down but any sign of joint swelling or if I cannot find a cause I will cool the limb in the nearest water before heading home to make a proper evaluation and management plan. Anti-inflammatory pain killers, under the supervision of the vet, are a good stand by and a short course of treatment along with a bit of rest can work wonders in many cases but there needs to be the initial recognition of the problem then proper evaluation of the treatment needed. Health is all about early intervention, sort the problem straight away and it is less likely to develop into a major issue, ignore the early signs and sometimes things will settle on their own but sooner or later they will progress into a serious injury that can end a season or even career.

 

From

 

http://www.thehuntinglife.com/forums/topic/331249-wrist-injuries/

[my hounds 316]

George hows your dog?,has he been seen by a Chiropracter as yet?.