Pathologies Archives - Perros siempre en movimiento

What to do with a dog that has back problems

Animal welfare, injuries, Pathologies, Treatments

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 .

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.

15/03/2024/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Solutions to hip dysplasia in dogs

Pathologies, Treatments, vet

Hip dysplasia in dogs is one of their most common inherited bone diseases. It is not a congenital disease, and there are also no signs that the animal suffers from it when it is born. It develops as the dog grows, and it is not often that it appears in its first three months of life. It is from the fourth or fifth when it begins to make its appearance.

It is a degenerative condition and is caused by a malformation in the joint that joins the hip and head of the femur. It is usually painful and can cause lameness, as well as problems getting the animal to feel properly. As the disease progresses, the dog will move with more difficulty. It will cost you more and more, for example, to climb stairs. In more severe cases, you will even stop running or even walking.

This disease, more frequent in medium or large breeds, can be enhanced by factors such as overweight. It will also be more accentuated if the affected dog gets a lot of exercise. Fortunately, there are several solutions to correct hip dysplasia in dogs. In general, they will vary depending on the severity of the disease when it is diagnosed.

The most common solutions to hip dysplasia in dogs

As we have mentioned, the treatment of the affected animal should be based on the severity of the dysplasia. There are two types: those that try to prevent the disease from progressing and try not to go any further and surgical. The latter are more radical, and more indicated in severe cases.

Treatments of the first type, considered conservative, involve administering specific drugs for the progression of osteoarthritis, called chondroprotectors, to the dog. This treatment is long-lasting, and is designed to slow down its progress. In addition, it can be supplemented with anti-inflammatories, analgesics and with a hip support.

The use of a hip support not only makes the dog affected by the disease less discomfort. You will also have less pain, which makes it possible to lower your dose of anti-inflammatories. To this also contributes the monitoring of the diet of the animal, to prevent it from gaining weight.

In more severe cases, or when the veterinarian decides that it is the most appropriate, it is advisable to opt for a surgical solution

Curative treatments for hip dysplasia in dogs

All treatments aimed at curing hip dysplasia in dogs go through the operating room. Of course, they can also be palliative.

Among the curative ones are the triple osteotomy of the pelvis, which consists of its relocation and the replacement of the hip by a prosthesis. This last procedure is similar to that carried out in humans. But, as we have said, there are also palliatives, such as the substitution by exccession of the head of the femur.

Dogs that suffer a severe case of hip dysplasia and cannot walk, or those that are recovering from an operation, can use a wheelchair created especially for this type of case. These are devices that can be made to measure in a few days, or supports adjustable to the dimensions of the animal.

With them, dogs with this disease will be able not only to move, but to use them as an aid to recover mobility and muscle tone.

Ortocanis Editor Team

15/03/2024/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Does your dog suffer from joint pain? You can help

Animal welfare, Pathologies, Treatments

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 🙂

04/09/2020/0 Comments/by Delia Ortocanis

Cold in dogs: how to identify it and what to do to relieve its symptoms

Pathologies

Not only humans get colds. Animals can also catch colds. Among them, the dogs. And practically for the same reasons that we humans catch them: a cold, a wetness, a sharp and sudden change in temperature, exposure to viruses, etc. The cold in dogs , in addition to being uncomfortable, causes various discomforts to animals. That is why it is important to be vigilant when they begin to show symptoms.

You also have to make sure not to confuse it with one of the most common and dangerous diseases for dogs: distemper . In principle, when the first symptoms appear, you can get confused. For this reason, it is important to go to the veterinarian as soon as the animal begins to show signs of not feeling very well. A cold, unlike distemper, is a mild illness that usually goes away in a week or two. As long as the animal is properly cared for

Cold in dogs: main symptoms

When a dog catches a cold, it begins to show symptoms very soon. Among the main ones, some that may sound familiar to many. Sneezing , congestion , watery eyes, some cough, runny nose , little desire to eat, etc. You may also have a fever, and you won’t feel too well. These symptoms can last between one and two weeks , and must be monitored so that the cold in dogs does not become something more serious.

If the dog is observed to have difficulty breathing or a fever , it is advisable to go to the vet immediately . The same if when breathing you hear a whistling sound. The specialist will examine the animal and decide if they are complications of the cold or some more serious pathology that requires specialized treatment.

The care that a cold dog requires

As such, the cold in dogs does not have a specific treatment. Only its symptoms can be relieved . In general, try to make it comfortable and warm . And provide a balanced diet. He may not have much of an appetite, so it’s wise to put something he particularly likes within his reach. And try to have a bed to rest as comfortable as possible . Like this one, which, as it is also made of thermal fabric, will provide you with warmth that will alleviate your discomfort.

The fact that the dog has a cold does not mean that it should not go outside. Of course, with shorter walks . You should also avoid taking him out during the coldest hours of the day. On the other hand, even if he is not hungry, you have to try to make him drink liquid , even if it is little. In this case, do it several times. This will help you reduce and expel mucus. It is also important, if there is more than one dog at home, to separate the one with a cold from the others . This way you will avoid infections.

In general, do not medicate the dog without the opinion of a veterinarian. If the cold is mild and there are no complications , he will not prescribe anything beyond a syrup or simply an extra vitamin C. He may also recommend some home remedy to relieve him. But nothing more. In a week or two, the dog should be fit again and without a trace of the cold.

20/02/2019/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

What to do with a dog that drags its knuckles when walking

Pathologies, Treatments

The way dogs walk can be affected by numerous ailments. They can walk poorly due to joint problems, or because a foreign object has stuck in them. These changes in the way of walking serve to detect various pathologies that have no other external manifestation. For example, when faced with a dog that drags its knuckles , it can be suspected that it suffers from some ailment related to the sciatic nerve.

Generally, this phenomenon usually occurs in the hind legs of the dog. It can happen in one of the legs or in both. And although it does not prevent him from walking, it does make it difficult for him to walk . Also, you will hurt your paw and feel pain if you walk for a long time.

Why does a dog drag his knuckles when walking?

The reasons why a dog drags his knuckles when walking can be very varied. This problem may be due, for example, to problems in the animal’s sciatic nerve . But it can also be due to spinal injury , myeloplasia , or degenerative myelopathy .

In any case, it is important to go to the vet as soon as it is detected , so that it can be diagnosed correctly and find a solution. Otherwise, in addition to the damage you may already have in your lower back or spine, it will also damage your legs.

What to do to correct knuckle drag

The first thing to try to avoid this is, as we have mentioned, go to the vet. Faced with a dog that drags its knuckles when walking, the specialist will recommend treatment after diagnosis. This may be corrective or, if the animal has a degenerative disease, palliative. In the latter case, the aim will not be to correct the problem, but rather to provide the animal with the best possible quality of life .

In addition to the medication or the precautions to be taken, the veterinarian will recommend various guidelines so that the dog is as comfortable as possible. Among them, when the animal is at home it has a comfortable place to lie down . And one that can be easily lifted . By bending your knuckles, you may have a hard time getting up, because your grip will fail. Therefore, in addition to falling, the affected leg can be injured.

Apart from this, the new proprioceptive corrector can also be placed on the affected leg. This corrector will support the knuckles and fingers of the affected leg so that you can support it correctly. With it, the animal will have adequate tension at the necessary points to prevent the knuckles from bending. You can rest your paw on the pads normally.

Of course, this type of correctors cannot be worn indefinitely. In general, as the veterinarian will advise, the ideal is that they should be worn for a short period of time at first. For example, 15 minutes . Then you can gradually increase the time that the animal can carry it. Of course, in no case is it recommended to wear it for more than two hours . And in case you have to carry it for so long, it is advisable to protect the leg with a special boot .

13/02/2019/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Distemper in dogs and its treatment

What is distemper in dogs and how is it spread?

The RNA virus, belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family, is the cause of one of the most contagious and dangerous diseases. Better known as distemper in dogs, it is contracted by direct contact with one that is infected. The symptoms do not appear immediately since there is an incubation period between 14 and 18 days beforehand.

Not all strains of distemper in dogs have the same virulence. Therefore, each clinical picture has its own severity and evolution. Replication occurs in the lymphoid tissue, thus causing immunosuppression in the animal. From there it progresses and infects the central nervous system. At this point is when we can observe the weakness in the hind legs.

Distemper in dogs mainly affects puppies between 3 and 6 months of age, as they have a weaker immune system. However, older dogs can also be infected.

Symptoms of distemper in dogs

The initial symptoms of distemper in dogs are very varied, and include rhinitis, mucopurulent discharge, cough, conjunctivitis, vomiting or diarrhea, fever, dehydration, anorexia or weight loss, and pneumonia (due to secondary bacterial infections), among others. others.

When the disease reaches the central nervous system, other types of symptoms appear. These are encephalitis, which is responsible for weakness in the legs, tremors and various paralyzes, as well as convulsions and blindness.

Encephalitis, when it affects adult dogs, can occur in two different ways. In the first place, as multifocal encephalitis, whose main characteristic is incoordination, tilted head, facial paralysis and tremors, as well as the aforementioned weakness in the hind legs. This type of distemper in dogs appears between the ages of 4 and 8, and evolves into paralysis , although they can recover.

Secondly, when it comes to older dogs, that is, older than 6, a visual deficit appears, as well as mental depression, personality changes, tournament and also inability to hold the head. Recovery is complex in these cases.

Treatment of distemper in dogs

There is currently no specific treatment for distemper in dogs. Although there is a way to prevent contagion and that is through vaccination. In the event of contagion, isolation is essential to avoid spreading the disease.

For secondary infections, antibiotics will be administered, and for the specific symptoms of distemper in dogs, anti-inflammatories and antipyretics. There are also medications for seizures. In addition to all this, we will make sure that the animal eats and drinks so as not to become dehydrated.

Regarding the quality of life of the animal, we can help with mobility using specific harnesses , as well as wheelchairs if necessary. If you need advice to choose the right ones, you can contact us.

24/01/2019/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Causes of a limp in young dogs

Animal welfare, injuries, Pathologies

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.

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.

31/12/2018/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Sphincter problems in dogs with paralysis

Animal welfare, Pathologies

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?

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.

12/12/2018/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Why is my dog limping?

injuries, Pathologies

It is quite common to see a dog limp . Like humans, a bad step or a blow can lead them to suffer pain. And as a consequence to limp for a few minutes. But when time passes and they don’t stop doing it, or when they start to limp on one leg for no apparent reason, it’s a good idea to find the causes.

To do this, the first thing is to check the leg on the outside. It may simply be that the animal has stuck something in the area of the paw pads and is hurting it when walking. In these cases, it will suffice to carefully remove it and disinfect the affected area. Sometimes you can remove it yourself. But other times, what is wrong will not be so obvious, and it will be necessary to go to the vet to examine the dog.

-“My dog limps”: let’s see the possible causes.

Aside from getting something stuck in the leg, or suffering from an injury, the most common cause of a dog limping is a joint injury . Or in the muscles and bones. In many of these cases, it will be revealed by some swelling in the leg, or an inflammation in the joints. But other times there will be no external sign that gives it away. In these cases, the dog starts to limp suddenly. Many times, it does so after practicing physical activity of a certain intensity. Among the most common injuries are ligament tears and dislocations , as well as fractures .

The effects of age can also cause a dog to limp due to conditions such as osteoarthritis . In these cases, the veterinarian must prepare a plan for the dog to get better. It can also be caused by dysplasia , either of the hip or elbow. In this case, the hip or elbow joint becomes inflamed, and does not fit properly in its rightful place. In many cases it may require surgery to correct.

Also, in young dogs, it can be caused by something similar to the pain children experience in their legs as they grow. It is more frequent in large dogs, and disappears only after a few weeks. It is called panosteitis and can pass from one leg to another. In any case, it is much less worrying than the previous causes.

What to do if your dog limps

The first thing to do when faced with lameness in a dog is to go to the vet. He will examine you to determine the causes of the ailment and will give you the appropriate treatment. In some cases, anti- inflammatories and perhaps a splint, orthosis or harness will suffice. But in other cases surgery will be advisable to correct the problem.

In other cases, the animal will have to perform various rehabilitation exercises. And you may need some help to improve your ambulation . For example, a joint protector , which will vary depending on the affected leg. And the area of it that is affected. These neoprene protectors will increase the working temperature of the joint, accelerating metabolism and recovery while reducing pain and inflammation.

In any case, it is advisable to follow the recommendation of the veterinarian before placing one.

aids for limping dogs

26/11/2018/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Reasons why a dog has trouble walking

Animal welfare, injuries, most commented, Pathologies

There are several factors why a dog may have trouble walking. When evaluating a pathology, we must take into account, among other things, the age of the animal, since on some occasions, such as in elderly dogs, the main reason may be age itself. But what other causes can there be?

Causes of walking problems

Depending on the rhythm of life that our dog leads, it is possible that he will experience localized pain for a few days. Just as it happens to us, excessive exercise can cause tiredness and weakness. This will cause us to have trouble walking.

However, when the pain lasts for more than a couple of days, we should go to the vet. There they will make an assessment and proceed with the diagnosis. Some of the most common causes of walking problems are the following.

injuries

In addition to an unseen fracture or torn tendon, walking problems can also be caused by a back or spinal cord injury. This usually appears due to trauma, a stroke or damage to the discs.

When a dog’s spinal cord or spine is inflamed or injured, the hind legs may show signs of weakness or instability. This will inevitably cause problems walking. If our dog has not suffered an accident but is in this situation, we must go to the vet as soon as possible.

degenerative myelopathy

This disease is another reason why a dog may have trouble walking. Especially in adult dogs , the fibers that send signals to the brain for leg movement are gradually being destroyed. The cause is the deterioration of the spinal cord itself.

Dogs with myelopathy do not experience pain, but the disease directly affects mobility. The legs lose strength and the animal is not able to walk normally or stand for long. Currently there is no cure for this disease, but physiotherapy and holistic medicine can relieve symptoms.

Diabetes

Females are more prone to diabetes, which can also cause walking problems. Although some breeds such as Goldens, German Shepherds or Schnauzers are more prone, it can affect anyone.

To avoid diabetes, it is advisable not to give dogs foods rich in sugar. Since they are capable of eating anything, it is very common for many owners to share their food. But we must not forget that some apparently harmless foods that they also like are toxic to them. To determine if diabetes is the cause of walking problems, an analysis is enough.

osteoarthritis

Arthritis and osteoarthritis are other reasons why dogs can have trouble walking. Adult dogs and large breeds are usually the ones who suffer the most from this disease. It usually affects the hip and knee joints, deteriorating cushioning and causing pain.

Some medications in addition to physical therapy can relieve symptoms. Thus, our friend will be able to maintain an optimal quality of life and reduce his problems walking.

The causes of walking problems are wide and varied. In any case, if we observe that our dog spends more than two days without being able to move normally, it is best to go to the vet. The sooner we detect the problem, the sooner we can fix it.

19/11/2018/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina