Ortopedia canina

What to do with a dog that has back problems

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Dogs can have health problems related to their limbs. But they can also have back problems . These problems can be both muscular and bone . And it can be due to various factors. For example, to an illness, whether punctual or chronic. Or to a blow.

They can also be due to the wear and tear of bones and muscles due to age . Indeed, elderly dogs can suffer from degenerative diseases, such as osteoarthritis . Also have more aches and pains than a young dog. This affects your well-being, but also your mobility. And as a consequence, in its general condition.

Support for dogs with back problems

A dog with pain not only moves worse. He is also in a worse mood and sadder. In these cases it is best to consult the veterinarian. Both to find out what is wrong and to recommend the most appropriate treatment. On many occasions it will basically consist of supplying anti-inflammatories and painkillers. Other times a surgical intervention will be necessary. For example, if there is a complicated herniated disc .

In addition to these types of treatments, the well-being of dogs can be helped with protectors and orthopedic supports . For example, a thoraco-lumbar thermal support . With them, in addition to having the back protected, they will receive heat in the affected area. In this way, your injuries will improve.

This support is indicated for dogs of a certain age that suffer from osteoarthritis in the spine. Also for those with instability in the lumbar and thoracic area , or cauda syndrome . Apart from this, it is indicated for conservative treatment in herniated discs . And also for the periods after the operations of this ailment.

In general, it is recommended for dogs that suffer from any type of spine ailment. And for those who have mobility problems in the hind legs .

Colchón Ortopédico para perros

Orthopedic beds and thermal coats

Dogs with back problems should rest well to avoid further pain. Generally, a conventional dog bed will not provide them with the support and support that they need. Therefore, if a dog has spinal injuries or mobility problems it is advisable that they use an orthopedic bed . This is especially advisable if the dog is already old , or if it has osteoarthritis problems.

These types of beds are made in a special way to improve the rest of elderly dogs . Thus, if they rest better, their body will be more rested, and their injuries will soften a little . The same will happen if the dog has osteoarthritis. These beds are manufactured with specific materials and finishes to improve the performance of the animal’s joints.

They are usually made up of a special viscoelastic or foam material , covered with soft fabric with a pleasant touch, so that the dog is comfortable on them. Apart from this, they are usually thicker and firmer than conventional dog beds.

In addition to beds, these dogs also need to be bundled up in winter . Low temperatures can affect your joints and your back . Therefore, it is advisable to put a protective thermal coat on them. This way they will stay warmer and your back will not suffer the consequences of the cold.

 

 

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Monica Sala Carrillo

Thermotherapy for dogs

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Thermotherapy for dogs is a technique based on the application of surface heat on the injured area for therapeutic purposes.

Types of thermotherapy according to your scope

  • Surface use of seed bags, microwave gel bags, warm wet towels and infrared lamps. In this way what we get is that the heat is absorbed in a cutaneous way and can reach deeper tissues through conduction.
  • Deep methods, such as ultrasound, shortwave and microwave; These produce biological effects by directly heating the tissues in depth.

Thermotherapy dogs

Main effects of thermotherapy for dogs

  • Repairing, the increase in temperature causes vasodilation and increased blood flow. This produces an increase in oxygen and nutrients to the injured tissue, favoring healing and tissue repair. That is why we should never apply this technique in active hemorrhages.
  • Sedative, heat favors the extension of muscles and tendons while reducing muscle spasm; thus achieving greater extensibility of connective tissue and less joint stiffness.
  • Anti-inflammatory, hyperemia favors vasodilation, increased blood circulation, the supply of oxygen and nutrients and the elimination of metabolites and waste products.
  • Analgesic, stimulation of nerve endings in the skin interferes in blocking painful sensations.

Contraindications of thermotherapy

  • Infections and acute inflammations , in the first 48-72 hours we must avoid this therapy, since in this phase we seek to control vasodilation.
  • Cardiovascular diseases, thrombophlebitis, acute phlebitis or peripheral vascular disease , heat increases blood flow in the area of application and lowers blood pressure, aggravating these pathologies.
  • Sensory deficit , before applying this therapy we must evaluate the thermal and painful sensitivity of the area to be treated, due to the sedative effect of thermotherapy on the nervous system and the risk of burns.
  • Active hemorrhages, heat increases blood flow aggravating this picture.
  • In areas with blood risk deficit , thermal elevation increases metabolic demands, leading to ischemic necrosis.
  • Malignant tumors, as it can increase the rate of tumor growth.
  • Skin lesions or open wounds, the risk of burns and infections makes these pathologies incompatible with therapy.

 

 

by María Jesus García Serrano

@vetliferehabilitacioncanina

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Ortocanis

Important Facts About Using Cast For Dogs

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Injuries can happen anywhere and at any time. The more active you are, the higher the chances of getting injured.

It is especially true when it comes to dogs. Dogs are naturally active animals and need to run around and get plenty of exercise. Not only running, but they also love to jump indoors and outdoors.

Their nature makes them do this many times without being cautious. It makes dogs more prone to injuries, even as serious as fractures and broken bones.

Using a cast is a popular method of healing an injury such as a fracture. This article explains important facts about using cast for dogs.

What Is Casting

 A cast is a type of hard bandage that wraps around limbs that have been fractured or injured in some form. Dogs are very active animals that run and jump around almost daily. So, they are at high risk of injuring themselves and fracturing their bones

Accidents, falls, and trauma can lead to injuries that require a cast on a dog. Limbs are the most common area that gets fractured in dogs and require casting. 

Sometimes, a cast doesn’t prove to be sufficient for healing. In severe falls, and traumatic accidents, dogs could even break a leg. It could even lead to the requirement of surgery.

Important Facts About Using Cast For Dogs

Casts lie in close contact with the dog’s skin and are a method used to treat external immobilization. It consists of several layers of plaster and padding.

Materials used in a cast include fiberglass, polyurethane-impregnated cotton-polyester, or thermoplastics. 

Some fractures in dogs are generally visible right away. So you can take your dog to the vet for casting.

Other fractures are not as obvious and may be missed for a few days until you see your dog limping. 

A vet needs to examine the injury using an x-ray to determine if a casting is sufficient or if it requires surgery.

Depending on the severity of the break, your vet may require plates or pins to keep the bones in place. Once the plates are in place and immobilized, the bones will heal around the steel parts. Your vet may recommend a cast to keep the bones immobilized.

If your dog’s injury is more severe and requires surgery, the vet might use anesthesia to reset the bones.

Casting Procedure

Casting is done using an aseptic technique, which means the method is designed to prevent microorganism contamination. Therefore, your dog could even be anesthetized, and the affected area may be shaved before the procedure.

Here is the step-by-step procedure followed for casting on a foreleg fracture.

  1. Place the dog in a side-lying (lateral recumbency) position with the injured extremity facing down.
  2. Apply tape to the ventral and dorsal areas of the foot while a stirrup is created. At this point, the dog’s leg should be elevated to provide support while performing the casting procedure.
  3. Sometimes, the application of a stockinette bandage may be required.
  4. Apply several layers of padding to the elevated leg. The padding consists of layers that are wound tightly around the leg. 
  5. Roll out several layers of cast material around the leg, from distal to proximal limb aspects, overlapping itself on each encirclement.
  6. Place wet plaster atop the casting material to get the shape of the leg.
  7. Turn the visible padding at both ends downwards, and tape over the stirrup.
  8. The plaster will take several hours to dry, so the dog may have to stay overnight at the hospital.

Efficacy Of Casting In Dogs

 

Casting done by a professional such as a vet will permanently fix the affected skeleton. Casting effectively treats most fractures in dogs, except for a few serious ones that require surgery.

An injury with a cast will heal 97% of the time without complications.

A vet will try his best to treat injuries by putting on a cast. However, if it’s unable to do so, a vet has no choice but to go for surgery. It’s usually the case when there are severe breaks in multiple locations.

A cast is put on the affected area for full immobilization. A dog needs adequate rest to recover with minimal effect and gain full mobility soon.

Casting Recovery In Dogs

 

Your dog might have to stay overnight at the hospital after the initial cast setting based on the vet’s recommendation. 

You must take good care of your dog when recovering at home. Your dog needs to rest and not put too much weight and pressure on the affected limbs.

The vet will provide drug therapy consisting of pain medications to give your dog while recovering at home. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs may also be prescribed in case of secondary damage like swelling or infection due to injury.

At-home care accounts for about 50% of the recovery. Depending on the location and severity of the injury, it could take anywhere between five to twelve weeks for a full recovery.

You may have to take your dog to check and change the outer bandages during recovery. Your vet will inspect the injury to see if it’s healing well.

Your vet needs to recheck your dog’s injury after recovery with additional x-rays to ensure that it has completely healed. 

Casting Cost

 

The casting cost depends on factors such as the injury’s type, severity, and location. It also varies based on whether there is emergency care or specialized surgical care.

A simple cast would cost under $400. However, if the injury involves surgery, it could cost several thousand dollars.

The national average of casting varies between $1000 and $5000. It depends on the specialization of the vet and follow-up care procedures.

Going to the vet may cost approximately $50 per visit. X-rays and tests will cost between $50 – $200 per visit. In addition, medication and other follow-up care requirements will cost upto $100.

Casting Considerations

 

Once casting is done, your dog’s recovery depends on how well you take care of it. You need to give it the medication as advised by the vet.

The risk of using a cast is higher at home than at the vet. Because your dog will be spending more time recovering at home, your care is of utmost importance.

While at the vet, you need to consider his advice regarding alternatives to surgery, like using steel pins or plates. However, surgery may sometimes be unavoidable, so you’ll have to go with what your vet recommends.

There is also a method that does bone reset using a bandage cast. You can discuss all of these alternatives in detail with your vet.

Once the procedure is done, you must take good care of your dog at home. Improper care can pose a risk in the following ways.

  • Infection
  • Loss of circulation
  • Necrotic tissues
  • Delayed healing time

If everything is fine, your dog should heal well within several weeks with minimal aches and pains in the affected area.

How To Take Care Of A Dog In A Cast

Taking good care of your dog is essential during recovery. An essential fact to note is never to let a cast or bandage get wet. A cast could get wet from water bowls, wet grass, urine, and saliva.

A wet cast could cause problems when bacteria begin to multiply on it. You can cover it with a plastic bag to prevent it from getting wet when your dog goes out. However, don’t keep it for longer than 30 minutes.

If the plaster gets wet, you can dry it using a hair dryer. Be sure not to overheat the skins beneath the cast. If it’s too wet, you must return and get a new dressing done.

Always touch and feel the toes daily to check for warmth and dryness. Do this when your dog is occupied with something.

Your dog should respond when you squeeze its toes. If your dog is unresponsive, it’s a cause for concern, and you need to take it to the vet.

Place a sock over the cast to prevent your dog from licking the area. Your dog will not lick the cast when there is a sock on it. Ensure it’s a cover that allows the dressing to ‘breathe.’ Avoid using plastic or waterproof materials.

Watch for any irritations on top of the dressing. Sometimes sticky plasters and the dressing rubbing could cause allergic reactions, which you must address with the vet.

Ensure to take your pet for dressing changes as required.

Casting Prevention In Dogs

 

Preventing injuries requires you to watch your dog at all possible times. Dogs can jump or fall and get injured both indoors and outdoors. So it’s important to be on alert at all times.

Make a note of areas with stairs, as there is a high risk of your dog falling up. Fence your yard to ensure your dog doesn’t run onto the road without your knowledge. Road accidents are also a common reason for an injury that requires putting on a cast.

Stay alert when you take your dog outdoors for a walk or on an adventure like hiking, especially if it’s a stubborn one. Make sure you use a training collar for stubborn dogs to control your dog and prevent them from doing something that would cause an injury.

Conclusion

 

Keep these important facts on casting for dogs to ensure a speedy and complete recovery. Prevention is better than cure, so always keep an eye on your dog to prevent injuries that require using a cast for healing.

Finally, take good care of your dog while in recovery to ensure that it has minimal pain and that the affected area is fully-healed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Should A Dog Wear A Cast?

A dog should wear a cast for five to twelve weeks, depending on the severity and nature of the fracture.

Can A Dog Walk With A Cast?

Walking is fine as long as your dog doesn’t run or walk very fast. Ensure to keep the casting clean at all times, especially when it goes outdoors.

Can A Dog Fully Recover From A Broken Leg?

Yes. A dog can take up to twelve weeks to fully recover from a broken leg.

Dog braces

 

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Ortocanis

the dog boots

Dog boots are a great help both to prevent injuries and to help them heal.

Boots as prevention… in summer and winter

Spikes : in spring and summer. They usually stick between the fingers. Once they are stuck, due to their characteristic shape, they move inwards and can travel long distances and cause serious infections. In addition, stones, twigs, crystals,… all this can injure your dog’s paws in the field.

 

 

Heat : although we do not notice it because we are wearing shoes, in summer the ground can reach really high temperatures, especially if it is dark in color (for example, asphalt). On sunny days, we should protect our dog’s pads.

 

Snow – Snow can lead to dermatitis and cracking of the pads. In small dogs, even freezing of the final part of the legs. (Photo dog snow boots Ortocanis)

 

Boots as an aid to wound treatment

 

Boots are a very good alternative to some bandages for dog “foot” injuries. They allow them to be more comfortable and, most importantly: they are easy to remove and put on, so we can see the state of the injury at any time and let it “breathe” from time to time. (vet photo with dog)

 

Boots as an aid in orthopedic diseases

 

Boots become essential for dogs with movement problems, whether due to hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament rupture or simply advanced osteoarthritis. They allow the dog to have a better grip on the ground, greatly improve walking, and prevent injuries due to a “slip”. Especially important inside homes, where the floor is often slippery.

 

Do you want to see how a dog “manages” with his boots?

 

DOG IN BOOTS VIDEO

 

BANNER BOOTS DO WE HAVE?

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Delia Ortocanis

Does your dog suffer from joint pain? You can help

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joint pain They are common in dogs, especially older dogs and large breed dogs. Although any dog can suffer from joint problems due to causes such as excessive exercise or other ailments or disorders.

To help your dog you can use chondroprotectors and you will also find experts in canine orthopedics who can advise you on the use of orthopedic aids .

There are different types of joint protectors , depending on where the dog suffers the pain.

Do you know what chondroprotectors are?

Chondroprotectors are not drugs, but food supplements, and are made up of natural substances to prevent and treat joint problems. The composition of chondroprotectors is usually hyaluronic acid, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.

The function of the chondroprotector is to prevent the breakdown of cartilage. This breakdown is the first step in the development of degenerative joint disease, so they are most effective when used early in the disease.

They reduce inflammation and stiffness, relieving the pain felt by the dog. As a result, your mobility improves and your joints and cartilage recover.

In the market you can find many types. From Chondroprotectors with added natural anti-inflammatories or even feed with chondroprotectors included in its composition.

Do you know how to detect if your dog needs these aids?

First of all, comment that both joint protectors and chondroprotectors can be complementary aids that help reduce joint pain suffered by dogs. You can use them in case of joint problems, such as dysplasia, osteoarthritis, or arthritis; after joint surgery or trauma; or to strengthen joints in formation.

It is also important to recognize certain signs to find out if your dog needs these aids. If you notice that your dog is reluctant to move, limps, has trouble climbing stairs, moves strangely, is less active or complains if you touch him. The most obvious symptom that your dog has a joint problem is limp. However, other symptoms may also appear that indicate that you suffer from joint pain, such as:

 

  • Your dog lies down and gets up with difficulty.
  • He does not want to go up or down steps and has difficulty getting into the car.
  • He is slower on walks, does not run, does not play and does not want to walk much.
  • It walks strangely, with its back legs close together, or even crossing them.
  • It shows pain when you touch or brush it, even complaining.
  • He licks his paws and joints a lot.
  • It carries its head or tail lower than normal.
  • Their legs are stiff or swollen around the joints.

The best help for joint pain It will depend on your particular situation. We always recommend consulting with the veterinarian to find the one that best suits each case.

Luckily, more and more, we have new solutions to reduce joint pain in our dogs and thus improve their quality of life 🙂

 

 

 

 

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Delia Ortocanis

What to do if our dog goes blind?

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Unfortunately some dogs can suffer from vision loss and go blind. There are some breeds such as the German Shepherd, Cocker or Labrador, among others, in which this disease occurs more frequently.

Luckily, sight is the third sense for dogs, it comes after smell and hearing, so blindness does not affect them in the same way as it does us and with some facilities they can return to their previous rhythm of life.

At first you may feel disoriented and confused but we must know that blind dogs can also enjoy life Just like any other dog, we just need to adapt. Never better said “It is neither the strongest nor the most intelligent of the species that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable to change”

What can we do if our dog goes blind?

If our dog has been with us in the same house for years, it is only a matter of time before he can move safely around the house. Blind dogs intensify other senses such as smell, hearing and touch, so it will be time to take full advantage of them and take some measures that help them:

  • Don’t move the furniture from his usual place. Thus the dog will not find obstacles where it does not expect them.
  • There are some harnesses that have a ring attached , this ring has the function of protecting our dog’s head and preventing it from hurting itself with the obstacles it finds in its path.
  • If it is a house with stairs, it is useful to place a carpet that indicates where they start and where they end. If you want to reinforce safety, we can place mats on the stairs to prevent falls. To teach our dog to go up and down the stairs for the first time, we can place a treat at each step to guide him and teach him the commands (such as “up”, “down”, “left” or “right” for example). As soon as you’ve mastered them, we can use them to guide you up and down the stairs.
  • We can secure all the sharp edges that we find at the height of the dog. In the market we find plastic covers , such as those used to protect small children, which can be used for this.
  • As a positive point, the situation will lead us to be ordered and do not leave any object in the way to prevent tripping or disorientation. Always leaving objects in the same place will make it easier for the dog to feel safe.
  • Food and water bowls They should always be in the same place. If we place the bowls on a mat or a plastic tablecloth, the dog can recognize that it is near the food. For especially insecure dogs, we can also design a “carpet” path so they can guide themselves to where the food bowls are.
  • If we have more than one animal at home, we can place a bell on them that will let us know that it is nearby.
  • On the first rides we can follow paths that are familiar to the dog. Also keep the leash relatively short so you can’t trip over it.
  • We must also get into the habit of talking to them and maintaining contact with caresses along the way and at home , as this makes them feel safe and accompanied.
  • When you meet other dogs It is important to tell the other owner that our dog is blind so that he pays more attention since he now lacks the ability to read the other’s body language, which can quickly lead to misunderstandings between the animals. However, contact with other dogs is also very important for blind animals.

By taking some measures and adapting to the new situation, we can surely find a good path and continue to be happy with our friend.

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Delia Ortocanis

Why use an orthopedic mattress in older dogs

cama perro ortopedicaDogs, just like us, may need a specific mattress to improve their rest. Much more so if it is about older dogs with pain, mobility problems or that have just come out of a surgical operation . For these cases, orthopedic mattresses for dogs can be a great ally.

What are orthopedic mattresses?:

Orthopedic mattresses for dogs distribute the dog’s weight evenly and adapt to the shape of the animal’s body while lying down. Its function is to avoid pressure points in order to optimize the dog’s rest and joint performance.

Orthopedic mattresses made with memory foam allow the bed to adapt perfectly to the dog’s body, simulating its shape thanks to the memory effect, and then return to its initial state when the dog decides to control the perimeter.

In addition, some mattresses incorporate a waterproof cover, for urinary incontinence or excessive drooling, and with anti-bacterial treatments that increase hygiene and prevent unpleasant odours.

These mattresses are recommended for dogs with osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia or bursitis and if they fulfill their purpose, they will minimize the difficulty and pain when getting up.

colchón perrosCharacteristics of a visco-elastic mattress:

-Eliminates pressure points by distributing the dog’s weight correctly and evenly, thanks to the special design of the undulating visco-elastic surface.

-Reduces the formation of hygromas and bursitis.

-Improves the rest of dogs with osteoarthritis or joint problems thanks to the adaptability of the material to the shape of the body.

How do I know what mattress size is right for my dog?

There are dogs that like to sleep making the conch shell, others stretched out and some characters even on their backs. If we know the tastes of ours, it will help to decide the size. In any case, the ideal is to look for a mattress with a comfortable size for the dog, which allows it to stretch and accommodate itself in such a way that its limbs are not outside the mattress.

For this, it is recommended to take the measurement of the dog from the nose to the end of the tail and add approximately 20 cm.

Where is the best place to put the mattress?

Choose a quiet, warm and comfortable place in the house. You can notice where the dog spends most of the time to place it there. Remember to allow her to sniff it out first so she can become familiar with her new nest.

Find a place where the mattress is embedded, that is, it cannot be moved from its site. In older dogs it is possible that when they want to raise their limbs, they inadvertently push the mattress and it moves, making going to bed somewhat frustrating. See if the mattress includes an anti-slip system. This detail could be of great help.

Orthopedic mattresses improve the dog’s quality of life , especially if he has joint pain. After using it for a few days you will notice positive results in your behavior, including an improved mood.

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Delia Ortocanis

Anxiety in post-confinement dogs

 

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After several months of quarantine at home, the return to the offices is restarted and with it comes the separation of our animals. This can lead to Separation anxiety in dogs . For this reason, it is useful to observe them the first days of the new routine, and follow some recommendations so that the dog feels calmer and copes better with anxiety.

Symptoms of anxiety in dogs due to separation:

Some of the behaviors that dogs with anxiety symptoms usually show are:

-Break objects.

-Stay close to their owners and follow them wherever they go.

-Urinate or defecate in places you don’t touch.

-More barking than usual.

-Stop eating.

-Panting above usual.

-Try to escape when they are alone.

Recommendations to improve dog anxiety:

– Music:

Making a personalized music playlist can help your dog improve anxiety as well as block out fear-provoking noises.

Many dogs have been shown to prefer classical music and harp music. This can serve as a natural sedative:

  • Lisa Spector piano music
  • Harp music by Christina Tourin

– Adequate space:

Having an entertaining environment with some ventilation will help the dog to better manage anxiety.

– Relaxation:

Colchón Ortopédico Having a bed or mattress can be helpful in teaching your dog to make an association with a moment of rest. A daily routine can be established where the dog learns to lie down on his mat after each exercise session, to take a nap or play with his own toys and then give him a treat.

To optimize rest and improve joint performance, you can also use thermal beds .

– Gift when leaving:

So that the dog can associate the act of leaving as something positive, it may be interesting to reinforce the exit with a reward.

masaje calmante– Massages:

Anxiety often causes tension in the muscles, so massage can help relieve tension. You can keep one hand on the dog and with the other massage starting at the neck and work your way down in long strokes. You can also use heat massagers that, in addition to being relaxing, have a beneficial system on the vascular system. Or consult with rehabilitation centers.

– Routine:

At the beginning of a change it is advisable to follow a predictable routine so that the dog can begin to sense when he can expect attention and when not. Scheduling a time to be with him and another to rest can give great results.

– Exercise:

Exercising with the dog is always recommended, as it will help him to be calmer and strengthen his muscles to prevent possible pathologies.

– Natural calming supplements:

In the first days of a big change, natural painkillers can help the dog alleviate the level of anxiety. You can consult your veterinarian to find out which supplements are the most appropriate.

What not to do:

If the dog has been anxious during your departure, and this has led to the house being destroyed or dirty, anything he does can increase the anxiety, making things worse for future outings. Therefore, both punishment and excited greetings should be avoided. At home, it’s best not to pay attention to the dog until it calms down (about 10-15 minutes). The dog should soon learn that the faster he settles, the sooner he will get your attention.

 

 

 

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Ortopedia canina

The main care that the dog should have in summer

Spring ends, and with the arrival of summer temperatures rise. At many points we will exceed 35 degrees maximum before we know it.

Like humans, dogs also suffer from the effects of rising temperatures . Therefore, special care must be taken with them. The dog in summer requires special attention.

These simply consist of relieving it so that the heat makes the least possible dent in it. It will suffice to follow a few guidelines to achieve this, and that the animal is as comfortable as possible despite the heat.

The dog in summer: more hydration

The main care that the dog must have in summer is related to hydration. It is essential that you always have water nearby so that you can drink as much as you want, because you will need to drink more than in winter. Water is the best element so that you can keep your body temperature constant , and do not raise your temperature. You have to try, yes, that it is not too hot, so it should be removed from the sun. And change it from time to time.

In case you are with the dog outside the house, they should always carry water with them in summer . There are not always places that provide water for dogs, and if they do not hydrate frequently, they can have a hard time. Do not forget a suitable container so that the animal can drink comfortably.

The heat can also lead the dog to jump headfirst into swimming pools , run to bathe in the sea or go into the river to cool off . Other than getting wet and “showering” everything around you when you shake off, there are no major precautions to take in this regard. Of course, watch where you swim, just in case you don’t make foot and get tired, because you could sink. In that case it will be time to rescue him.

dog hair in summer

When temperatures rise, it is common to see dogs whose hair has been cut to keep them cooler on the streets. But this cannot be done with all breeds , so it is best to check with your vet before doing so. For example, it is advisable to do it in the case of small dogs with long hair.

But if the dog is larger and has hard hair, it should not be cut , as it can be detrimental to its health. The hair is responsible, among other things, for protecting your skin, and its absence can cause damage. What is advisable is to take care that it is well dewormed to avoid additional discomfort to that of the heat.

To alleviate the heat, you can use a water spray , which will be poured on your hair. And if there is a fan, he can be allowed to stand nearby so that the air can soothe him. Of course, in the case of air conditioning, care must be taken that it is not placed right where the air jet hits it. Just like humans, dogs can catch colds, and the draft of refrigerated air can make them cold. If it’s really hot, a cooling vest, like this one, can help.

As for their diet, it should not be changed. And the walks must be carried out , as far as possible, in the hours of the day when it is less hot . It is best to walk early in the morning and in the late afternoon.

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Ortopedia canina

Why adopt a disabled dog

They say that dogs are man’s best friend, and they are probably right. Therefore, when looking for a companion, we should not look at the appearance but at the emotions, which go inside. Today we want to tell you some reasons why to adopt a disabled dog. Unfortunately, they are often forgotten in kennels and shelters.

What it means to adopt a disabled dog

Every pet needs some care. Animal welfarenot only implies having a living space and food available, but should also include walks appropriate to the dog’s breed, as well as affection and play.

Adopting a disabled dog is, it must be said, a great responsibility. In addition to the same basic needs of any dog, it will have other specific needs. And also, some of them, such as the rides, will have certain particularities.

adopt a disabled dog

However, that said, adopting a disabled dog is a decision that, provided we have the time and financial resources, can be very rewarding. Precisely because of their limitations, this type of animal tends to be more grateful and more affectionate than those in good health.

We tend to think that animals are not intelligent, but the opposite is true. They have the capacity to perceive love and affection, and they are also aware of when they can be a burden. If you want to make a gesture of solidarity and adopt a disabled dog, here are some reasons that will help you reaffirm your decision. And if you’ve never thought about it, maybe it’s an opportunity.

Reasons to adopt a disabled dog

There are many reasons to adopt a disabled dog. Here are some of them.

They have the right to a dignified life

Nobody likes to complicate things, but it is true that among humans we have a greater tolerance. However, dogs, or animals in general, have no one to speak for them, so they tend to be the forgotten ones in society.

By adopting a disabled dog, we are giving him an opportunity he probably would not have had in his life. Many of them, if they reach the kennel, are quickly euthanized. When they reside in shelters, although they are cared for, they may not have all their needs met, as resources are scarce in these centers. Having one of these dogs at home will make both the adopter and the animal feel good.

They will love us very much

One of the reasons why we have pets is precisely this, to feel accompanied. That’s why adopting a disabled dog is a good idea. They will know everything you do for them and will give you all the love they have inside.

There are many products to help us

Nowadays, we can find in the market many products designed to improve the life of these animals. For example, harnesses have differentdesigns adapted to mobility problems, disability or paralysis. Thanks to them, walking or moving around will be much easier. It is even possible to find wheelchairs for dogs.

Adopting a disabled dog is both a challenge and a responsibility. But if you are able to accept them, do not hesitate. They, more than anyone else, will thank you.

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