Benefits for Dogs

Canine osteopath assessing the upper back movements in a black Alsatian dog.
Here are some of the reasons why your dog should see an osteopath:

– To reduce pain

– Improve mobility

– Improve function to do daily tasks (e.g. going for a walk)

– Optimise performance in canine sports/activities and in obedience

– Speed up recovery from injury, accident or post-operation

– Improve behavioural changes caused by pain

– Help prevent re-injury.

Signs that your dog may need to see the osteopath:

– Lameness or limping

– Stiffness or decreased mobility

– Rigid posture

– Increased difficulty with daily tasks (e.g. jumping, walking up stairs)

– Repetitive strain injuries (e.g. jumping on and off sofa)

– Post- trauma (e.g. car accident, fights)

– Post-competition injury (e.g. agility, fly ball)

– Breed specific conditions (e.g. hip dysplasia in German Shepherds, elbow dysplasia in Labradors)

– Age-related changes

– Post-operative rehabilitation.

Jasmine the osteopath is smiling at the large black dog, who appears relaxed.
Canine osteopath is kneeling on the floor and treating the dog’s rib cage.
Subtle signs that your dog might be in discomfort or pain:

– Social changes (they may not want to greet you)

– Increased sleep or lethargy

– Decreased Appetite

– Either more vocal, or are much quieter than usual 

– Increased licking of an area (can indicate referral pain)

– Shaking

– Sensitive to touch/grooming

– Decreased performance (e.g. slower at walking)

– Obedience issues – it may be painful for them to go into sit or down position

– Post-operative issues

– Chronic conditions – improving quality of life.