Ortopedia canina

Care of a dog that has had a leg amputation

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Until not so long ago, finding a dog with one or more legs missing, either completely or partially, was not very common. When a doghad an accident or suffereda disease that resulted in the amputation of a leg, it was customary to put it down. There was not much information on the subject, nor many options for dogs suffering from this problem.

But fortunately for animals, this is no longer the case. Advances in both surgery and care for dogs that have suffered the loss of a leg mean that they are able to cope and fend for themselves. To the point of living a practically normal life. Of course, with some special care and attention.

Care of a dog that has had a leg amputation

Caring for a dog with a recently amputated leg

If the dog has recently lost a leg, it will require certaincare until it physically recovers. Unlike humans, who require several months to recover physically after an amputation, a dog recovers from this type of operation quite quickly. Indeed, in two or three days, a dog can be quite recoveredfrom the operation. And he will have regainedhis mobility, almost completely, in two to three weeks.

You may need a little help at first to get up, relieve yourself, or eat, for example. Especially if the amputation is of the foreleg. In these cases, the animal will recover somewhat more slowly than if the amputation is of the rear. This is because dogs carry more weight on their front legs than on their hind legs.

What we will have to worry about is the wound healing and its cures. It is important to make sure that the wound does not become infected and that it heals well. Generally, the veterinarian will be in charge of a careful follow-up of the wound, although it is also advisable to monitor it at home and report any anomaly to the veterinarian. If there is no problem, the staples that are usually used to close this type of wound will be removed in about 15 days.

On an emotional level, recovery will be another matter. An amputation can be somewhat complicated for a dog, so he may be sad or listless for a few days. It’s perfectly normal, but it won’t last long. Dogs, when they get used to their new situation, have no trauma. They can be perfectly happy even if they have three legs.

Precautions for dogs with amputated legs

As mentioned above, a dog with a missing leg will be able to recover in a short time. And live a practically normal life. For them it will be no problem to run or jump with only three legs. It seems amazing, but that’s how it is. However, there are some precautions to be taken with the health of this type of dog. Especially in terms of muscles and bones.

Dogs that have had a leg amputated will, thereafter,redistribute the weight of the body and remaining limbs differently. From one that, although comfortable for you, is not your natural one. Therefore, it is advisable to watch your bones and, above all, your spine, to avoid wear and tear. Periodic check-ups sincethe amputation will have to pay special attention to your muscles and bones to avoid problems.

Ortocanis editorial team.

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Ortopedia canina

Keys to a dog’s well-being

The concept of animal welfare is usually related only to animals intended for human consumption. However, any living being has the right to have a dignified life in which its needs are respected. We tell you the keys to the welfare of a pet dog.

What we call the welfare of a dog

The welfare of a dog or any animal refers, as its name indicates, to a situation in which it can live well. That is, that it resembles what is natural according to its species and its needs. Having an animal under our care is a responsibilitythat includes different aspects, and that does not only refer to providing food.

As is the case with humans, and as we have said on other occasions, our needs include relationships with other members of our species, affection and health care.

Therefore, we want to emphasize the care that is needed for the welfare of a dog. It must be taken into account that the purpose of these is not only the happiness of the animal, but also theprevention of diseases.

Keys to a dog's well-being

Animal welfare care

Quality food

Feeding is the most basic aspect of a dog’s well-being. However, it must be of high quality. In order to enjoy good health and avoid the development of diseases, as some of them are directly related to nutrition, the animal must ingest all the necessary nutrients.

When the diet is not varied or there are deficiencies, problems appear which, if not treated correctly, can lead to serious pathologies. To avoid this, the feed must be of high quality, as many are based on animal by-products and may not include the necessary vitamins and minerals. In addition, water should always be available in abundance.

On the other hand, it is important to know which foods are harmful to your health. Not everything we humans ingest is tolerated by them. So in order to maintain a dog’s well-being, we must consult if something is suitable before giving it to him.

Time to play

Even though our friend is no longer a puppy, he also needs to play and engage in regular physical activity for proper emotional health. While people may spend days at home of their own free will, a dog’s well-being necessarily involves daily walks.

In addition, depending on its breed, it may have greater needs. Thus, while some may be satisfied with a simple walk, others need to run and/or walk longer distances to avoid anxiety and stay fit. Regarding toys, we must verify that they are not toxic. Playing with animals develops bonding, which is very important for their happiness.

Medical care

Animals have a higher resistance to disease than humans. We must know how to identify pain in dogs, as well as strange behaviors that can warn us that something is wrong. The welfare of a dog requires medical assistance whenever something happens to him. Even if some lesions seem unimportant to us, we must go to the veterinarian to treat them.

The welfare of a dog is a right that we cannot deny him. If we love and care about our friend, we must be sure to follow these guidelines. The higher the quality of life we provide, the fewer or less serious problems we will encounter.

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Ortopedia canina

How to choose a dog harness

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If we plan to purchase a harness to help our friend with mobility when walking, we should know that there are various models. Not all are intended for the same purpose. Therefore, depending on what your problem or your specific need is, we will choose one or the other. Here we explain how to choose a harness without making mistakes.

The advantages of using a harness

We have already talked about the therapeutic properties of a harness for dogs. And it is that thanks to its structure, it achieves that when holding the animal we relieve the weight that it carries on its legs. Also, for those cases where there are hip problems, it also helps improve alignment.

As with people, animals also need a recovery process. It is not only important to know how to provide physical support, but also emotional support. By choosing a harness for dogs, we are offering them the help they need to regain their health and vital energy.

For this reason, and for you to choose the right one, we want to explain the differences that exist when choosing a harness for dogs. However, if you have doubts, you can always contact us and we will help you find the one that best suits the animal’s problem.

Choosing a dog harness

As a general rule, the purpose of these is to improve mobility and offer help when getting up, walking or climbing stairs. All of them activities of some difficulty when there is an injury. We can choose a harness among those detailed below.

Harness for hind legs compatible

We can choose a harness of this type if we want to help walking and getting up. It is especially suitable when there are neurological problems, spinal problems and lameness or weakness in the hind legs. Also in cases of osteoarthritis or hip dysplasia. It is also possible to combine it with an integral wheelchair.

We must use it only when walking or moving the dog. It can be annoying if we leave it on for a long time. It is very easy to use since the legs are inserted and it is held on the hip.

Web Master Harness

If our friend has suffered a previous limb amputation or shows weakness in them, we can choose a harness like this one. Unlike other models, this one has a built-in strap under the back. In this way, it will not slide forward in the area of the amputated limb. It also allows us to comfortably lift the animal to overcome obstacles.

If we want to leave it on for a long period, there will be no problem choosing a harness like this. It is made from fabrics that prevent chafing and allow ventilation.

full harness

If our dog is elderly or suffers from osteoarthritis, we can choose an integral harness. They offer support in the front and back, which helps to balance the weight well. In addition, it allows them to maintain control of the body in different situations. Not only is it a perfect complement to help the animal recover, but it also prevents injuries to owners when carrying them.

Although there are other variants, these are the three main types of harnesses that we can find. Choosing a suitable harness is essential to help the dog regain mobility or to provide support. You can check here what we have available and contact us for more information.

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Ortopedia canina

Winter care for dogs

During the cold seasons, we must take extra precautions and take extreme care of our furry friends. Especially with those dogs that suffer from certain pathologies or that are in a vulnerable state. We leave you the winter care for dogs that you cannot skip.

How does the cold affect dogs?

Although dogs usually have thick fur that protects them from the cold, it is not the same for all breeds, nor is it sufficient for all ages and states. Thus, depending on the age of our friend and his state of health and physical condition, he will suffer to a greater or lesser extent the consequences of the drop in temperatures.

With the winter care for dogs that we propose, you will not only keep their health in good condition. But we will also prevent complications from existing pathologies from appearing. As well as worsening or other problems derived from the cold.

Those dogs with whom we must especially take care of in winter are puppies , older dogs , small breeds and those with little fur . While they may be in good health, they are often more vulnerable to inclement weather .

Winter care that we must keep in mind

Animals suffer from the cold just as people do, except in the case of the Nordic races . For this reason, we leave you these care in winter so that you take them into account with your furry friends.

Follow a balanced and nutritious diet

If we want dogs to stay healthy, we must take care of their diet . Although it is a measure to be taken throughout the year, they are very basic care in winter. It is through food that we manage to increase our defenses, and these are the ones that will protect us from diseases. Especially in the cold season.

During these months, physical activity may be reduced. However, in order to stay warm, your body will need to burn more calories. If you notice changes in his feeding behavior, consult a veterinarian , as it may be necessary to adjust the amount of food he eats.

Keep him warm on walks

Whether our dog spends a lot of time outside, or if it is only when it comes to walks, we must keep them warm . This is the second point in care in winter, since the wind, rain and cold can make them sick.

Especially in those dogs that suffer from pathologies that hinder or prevent their mobility, we must protect their extremities. Reduced movement causes the temperature in those parts of the body to drop, affecting your overall health . At Ortocanis we have coats like this one available.

take care of his fur

The last of the winter care for our dogs refers to the coat. This fulfills an important function, and that is to protect your skin from external aggressions, including the cold. In addition to avoiding cuts at this time of year, we must brush it to keep it in good condition.

When it’s time for them to take a bath, we must do it indoors, without drafts and with warm water. We must also use a hair dryer so that they do not remain with moisture in the fur.

With these cares in winter we will make our dog suffer less from the cold. A simple way to protect them and keep diseases at bay .

Dog care in winter

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Ortopedia canina

Nutritional advice to prevent diseases in dogs

Some pathologies in dogs are due to birth defects or problems associated with a particular breed. However, with others we can reduce the chances of them appearing if we take care of the animal’s diet. With these nutritional tips it is possible to improve the general health of dogs.

diseases in dogs

Just as it happens to us humans, dogs or any other animal are susceptible to getting sick. Bad habits, such as lack of exercise, or an incomplete or inadequate diet, can accelerate or promote the appearance of certain pathologies .

Therefore, it is convenient to pay attention to these nutritional tips. Since the needs of dogs differ from those of humans. Thus, we will avoid giving them substances that may be toxic to them, and at the same time we will ensure that they obtain all the nutrients for their correct development.

Consejos nutricionales para prevenir enfermedades en los perros

Nutritional advice to reduce diseases

Offering our friend the contributions he needs through food is a way to lengthen his life. These simple nutritional tips will be of great help if you want to maintain or improve your health.

Vitamins and minerals

The amounts of vitamins and minerals that dogs need is already included in the specific foods for them. However, we must know how to choose those that are suitable. Some low quality or private label feeds contain mainly animal by-products. Therefore, the nutritional contribution will not be the same as if we choose foods from the best range.

These nutritional tips related to vitamins are also similar to those recommended for humans. A diet based on fast or precooked food will lack the vitamins and minerals that fresh vegetables or fish would have. If necessary, there are also vitamin complexes for dogs. Vitamins A, C, D3 and E are especially important for them.

healthy fatty acids

The second of the nutritional tips refers to healthy fatty acids. Although fats are related to obesity problems and the appearance of diseases, some types are essential for the proper functioning of the body.

Foods rich in Omega 3, such as sardines, tuna, salmon or spinach are rich in it and help us prevent diseases such as tumors. We can choose feed containing these foods or supply them directly.

Bioflavonoids

Bioflavonoids are a type of antioxidant of plant origin, and therefore found in fruits and vegetables. Thanks to its properties, they prevent premature aging and reduce the development of cancer cells. Grape seed extract, green tea extract, and quercetin are examples.

Amino acids

The following nutritional advice refers to amino acids such as melatonin or arginine. It is also about antioxidants that prevent the appearance of tumors. We find them in meat, fish, eggs and cereals. It is worth mentioning again the importance of the quality of the feed we choose. If we want them to contain these contributions, they must be of good quality.

Following these nutritional tips is very simple. It is enough to choose quality foods and offer a rich and varied diet, as well as free of those substances that may be toxic to them. If we want to avoid or delay the onset of diseases, we must take care of our diet.

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Ortocanis

New US law requires dog stores to sell animals rescued from shelters.

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From the state of California comes news that turns the market for the sale of animals upside down.

Fábrica de cachorros

Effective January 1, 2019, AB 485 prohibits stores from selling to dogs, cats and rabbits that do not come from a shelter. Any business that violates this law will face fines of $500. Perhaps it is not strict enough but it is a good start.
We would like it to be the beginning of the end of the so-called “puppy factories”, businesses that are dedicated to the breeding of animals whose main objective is to obtain an economic benefit. The conditions in which animals live in these types of facilities are precarious and cruel.
Ley perro LucyIn the United Kingdom, the ” Lucy law ” was passed, a law that prohibited the sale of puppies in this type of establishment. The name receives it in honor of a puppy of the Cavalier King Charles Spanier breed that was rescued in 2013 from a puppy farm. The little girl spent much of her life in a cage that prevented her from growing properly, for which her hips ended up fusing, causing a complicated malformation. The case shocked the United Kingdom thanks to an activist who managed to save Lucy and denounced the mistreatment that animals receive in this type of company.
We are aware that animals will only benefit if their sale is banned, but this is a small, big step to stop puppy mills. Buyers must be made aware that what they have in their hands is a life and that the purchase of pets in farms means financially benefiting businesses that promote animal abuse.
From Ortocanis we wish that more governments follow this clear example of respect for animals.
sofia gonzalez
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Ortopedia canina

Boots for dogs: to prevent and heal injuries

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Surely on some occasion you have seen a dog with a kind of shoes that protected its legs. It is not a whim of its owner so that the animal looks like it is wearing shoes. Surely there is a reason for you to wear dog boots . A poorly healed wound, an injury to a foot pad, etc.

But they can also be used preventively to avoid injuries and illnesses . Especially when taking a dog to the mountains or for a walk through rough terrain. Or when there are low temperatures, snow or ice. The use of shoes or boots for dogs protects their paws and avoids problems derived from stepping on them.

Boots for dogs: as an aid in healing injuries

When dogs suffer certain types of injuries, they feel pain when supporting the injured paw. In addition, especially if it is a wound caused by a sharp object , the paw pads are often injured. Therefore, for a certain time they feel pain when stepping on . And the paws are more sensitive when stepping on certain surfaces and can be hurt again.

Botas para perros: para prevenir y curar lesiones

Protecting the injured leg with a boot will prevent many situations in which it could be injured again. The boots can be high and low, with a rubber sole or with a vibram type. In the latter case, it will help you move comfortably (and with better grip) on all types of surfaces.

The boots are indicated for dogs that have some mobility problems . In these cases, they will have to wear boots on all their legs. They are not uncomfortable and are easy to put on and take off, so they are perfect for them. And by wearing them, you will improve your grip level. Precisely, dogs that have mobility problems, mainly due to age or a serious injury, often have stability problems . And they slip.

With the boots they will be able to grip better , they will walk with more comfort and they will avoid falls. In these cases, the most recommended, especially if they move on smooth surfaces, are those with rubber soles .

Boots on uneven or snowy surfaces

Dog boots will also be very comfortable for the animal if we put them on in certain situations. For example, to walk through forests or uneven surfaces . Also for climbs to the mountain. Or when it is very cold or snowing. With them, their legs will not suffer from finding stones or other strange elements. Nor by the action of the cold.

Frost and snowfall leave the ground in conditions that are not exactly the most suitable for dog paws. The cold when stepping on them can dry out their pads , which in many cases can open. This leads to injuries to their legs, and consequent mobility problems. Boots with vibram-type soles have more grip than rubber ones and are more appropriate for snow. However, they can be used on all types of terrain.

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Ortopedia canina

Causes of a limp in young dogs

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Lameness, although we usually relate it to older dogs or that are close to it, the truth is that it can appear at any age. However, it can be due to specific pathologies. Here we leave you the causes of lameness in young dogs.

Why does lameness appear in young dogs?

Lameness is a problem that occurs in dogs very frequently. The origin of this can be found in the bones, cartilage, joints and even the hip. To determine its cause, we will not only have to take into account the age of the animal and its lifestyle, but we will also have to value the presence of certain pathologies or diseases.

Although in many cases the cause can be the same at any age, today we are going to talk about the causes of lameness in young dogs. However, whenever we observe problems walking, it is convenient to go to the veterinarian.

Causas de una cojera en los perros jóvenes

canine panoaestheitis

This inflammatory-type disease is one of the causes of lameness in young dogs. Its origin is found in the bones, especially the humerus. It occurs mainly in large and giant breeds due to their own growth.

Symptoms include weakness and a limp that can alternatively affect both legs. For the diagnosis, an X-ray will be performed that will allow us to see the affected parts inside the bone. It usually disappears when the animal reaches adulthood, so only anti-inflammatories are administered.

Avascular necrosis in the femur

This cause of lameness in young dogs also occurs in humans. The head of the femur is disappearing for reasons that are not fully known. It most often affects small dog breeds, although it also affects some large ones. Usually between four and six weeks of age.

To diagnose it, it will be necessary to observe lameness in young dogs with support and a progressive increase in pain. The kneecap of that leg will be elevated from its normal position. Initially it may be mild but in one or two months it will intensify. An X-ray makes it possible to verify it. The treatment is surgical, and consists of joining the tibia with a band and nails.

hypertrophic osteodystrophy

The third cause of lameness in young dogs comes from feeding. Imbalances in the diet cause abnormal bone proliferation to occur. The limbs swell and fever also appears. It is very painful.

To treat this lameness in young dogs, which are usually large breeds, the diet is modified and anti-inflammatories are administered. It can take months for the problem to be fixed.

Osteochondritis dissecans

The cause of this lameness in young dogs is a crack in the cartilage of the joint. By losing the liquid that is inside, it touches the bone and inflammation occurs. It can appear on the knee, elbow or shoulder, among others. Surgical intervention is usually necessary, in addition to using protections, such as chondroprotectors .

Patella dislocation

The last of the causes of lameness in young dogs is dislocation. Both due to a blow and genetics, the patella moves out of place. It is more frequent in small breeds and the symptomatology is jumping when walking. By palpating the joint it can be easily detected. Depending on the severity of the lameness in young dogs, surgery may be required. If it is mild, anti-inflammatories and chondroprotectors will suffice.

And so far the causes of lameness in young dogs. Remember that blows, accidents or excessive activity can also cause it. In any case, the veterinarian will be the one who can tell us the reason and its treatment.

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Ortopedia canina

When is a thermal coat for dogs necessary?

For some time now, it has become more and more common to find dogs on the street with a kind of coat made of a fabric similar to that of a raincoat and of a certain thickness. It is a thermal coat . With them, the animal keeps its joints warm and does not get cold in winter. Also, if it rains and the coat can be waterproof and they won’t get wet either. In this way, the chances of the animal suffering greater joint pain or catching a cold are reduced.

Of course, as popular as these types of protectors are, it is not recommended that they be used by all dog breeds. Depending on their size, type of hair and skin, dogs retain more or less heat. Therefore, a breed that conserves body heat better will not need a protector unless the climate in which it lives is exceptionally cold, it is elderly or suffers from osteoarthritis or some other joint ailment. On the other hand, it will be needed by those who rapidly lose internal heat, breeds more typical of hot climates or who suffer from some joint ailment.

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Dogs that do need a coat in winter

Short-haired dogs are much more likely to lose body heat . Also those with long but fine hair . So it’s not just Boxers , Dalmatians , Chihuahuas , or Greyhounds that need coats when it’s cold. Also the Maltese puppies or the Shi-Tzu . Otherwise, it is common for the cold to affect them, and that they even tremble, contract respiratory diseases or aggravate the ailments in the case of elderly dogs or those with osteoarthritis.

In these cases, it is advisable to put an open term on them to go outside when it is cold. Generally, there are countless models available in many sizes , in order to adapt to the size of each animal. There are even those specifically designed for certain breeds , such as greyhounds . With them they will not only reduce joint ailments but they will not be cold, they will remain dry when it rains and they will be able to enjoy winter walks to the fullest.

They are also increasingly used in dogs that play sports since keeping them warm before a physical activity will prevent injuries and improve their performance.

Breeds that do not need a thermal coat for dogs

In general, large dogs with thick fur and thick, long hair do not require additional protection from the cold. They are breeds such as the German Shepherd , the Mastiff , the Husky or the Alaskan Malamute . Among his ancestors are the wolves, and his fur still bears quite a resemblance to them. These and other breeds often have a rough coat . Even pointed and tough. It is the layer of hair that protrudes.

Beneath it is another close to the skin, made up of millions of very fine hairs that intertwine with each other. In this way they form a layer that insulates the skin . Thanks to it, the heat takes longer to escape from your body. It is also more insulated from the rains, and if the animal gets wet, the water does not penetrate its skin as easily. Therefore, it is not necessary to put a protective thermal coat on them.

In these cases, what needs to be done for dogs to maintain their body heat is to take proper care of their skin and hair . Unlike other breeds, they do not need to be washed very often. Otherwise, your protection layer may be damaged. What is necessary is to brush them with some frequency to remove dirt and loose hairs that entangle the rest.

 

 

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Ortopedia canina

Sphincter problems in dogs with paralysis

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Motor disability in dogs usually leads to other pathologies. Above all, if the problems are in the hind legs, which causes serious mobility difficulties . This causes more problems for them. Among them are ulcers due to lack of movement and bone problems due to forced postures and displacements. Both problems are visible to the naked eye, so it is common to act on them quickly. Others are not so obvious, such as toilet training problems .

For the first, special care must be provided to the animal’s skin. In the case of bone problems, an adapted wheelchair is the solution. Not only because the animal will be able to move with almost total normality. Also because you will be able to maintain your natural posture. This will prevent bone deformities and spinal problems. But with toilet training problems, since they’re not that obvious, extra precautions need to be taken. What can be done to alleviate the problems that this entails?

marcelino

Problems of sphincters in dogs: hygiene above all

When a dog with mobility problems does not control its sphincters, among other things, it will stop controlling its urine. Also feces. Therefore it is necessary to avoid that their hind legs and the back of their spine are in contact with the droppings . It will be necessary, therefore, extreme hygiene in these areas.

Many dog owners often put diapers on them to avoid escapes or hygiene problems at home. Placing underpads in your bed to collect urine may also work. If the dog is female, special washable panties can be placed on it to prevent dripping. If it’s male, a special anti-drip girdle .

If the dog wears diapers, they must be removed every day for a few hours to avoid skin problems in the areas covered by the diaper. In addition, they must be changed with certain frequency . Generally, it’s good to take them off when you take them out for a walk. But you also have to keep their buttocks very clean. To do this, in addition to cleaning it with soap and water, you can use wet wipes or gauze soaked in physiological serum.

urine infections

When a dog does not have mobility in its hind legs, it can suffer from diseases derived from its condition. Among them, various infections . Of these, the most frequent are those of urine . This is because, due to lack of mobility, your bladder does not empty completely . Therefore, there is always fluid retained inside it, which leads to infection.

To avoid greater evils for dogs with paralysis, you have to be attentive to the appearance of their urine . If changes in color or smell are seen in it, they may be signs of a urine infection. In these cases it is necessary, more than advisable, to consult with the veterinarian to examine the animal.

It will be the one who decides the most appropriate treatment for him. He may even decide to empty his bladder , a delicate procedure that should only be carried out by veterinarians. In cases of recurrent infections, he may advise regular bladder emptying to try to reduce the number of infections.

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