How Physiotherapy Can Enhance Quality Of Life For Older Dogs

16th September 2024 by Sarah

Just like humans, dogs can experience joint stiffness and muscle weakness as they get older. This can make them less mobile, meaning that it’s more difficult for them to enjoy their daily walks and games. This can lead to a downward spiral as your pooch becomes less active and even more slow and creaky.

Some senior dogs may develop arthritic conditions that cause them pain and discomfort, and this can affect their quality of life. As pet owners, we naturally want to do the best we can to keep them happy and comfortable, and to help our dogs to make the most of their older age. Here’s a look at how physiotherapy can benefit dogs who are seven years or older.

Medication-free pain management

If your dog is showing signs of discomfort, your vet may recommend long-term medication. However, this can have side effects or may become less effective over time. Physiotherapy involves using techniques such as massage, hydrotherapy, stretching and laser therapy to improve circulation and reduce muscle tightness.

This can help your dog to feel more comfortable and reduce inflammation. You may also notice that they regain some of their youthful exuberance, as the treatments can boost endorphin production.

Better flexibility and mobility

Joint stiffness is a very common problem for older dogs, and you may notice that they don’t relish their walks as they used to, and are reluctant to fetch balls or climb and explore even when off the lead. Physiotherapy can help to improve flexibility and maintain a range of motion in older dogs, enabling them to enjoy life to the fullest.

Low impact muscle strengthening

As older dogs become less active and mobile, they can lose strength in their muscles, which makes it more difficult for them to support the joints. This increases the chance of injuries and can make your pooch reluctant to exercise, which only exacerbates the problem.

Physiotherapy, and in particular water based activities, will allow your dog to move freely without putting strain on the joints that could cause them pain. The water helps to support their body weight, while still providing resistance exercise that will build muscle strength.

It additionally helps with flexibility, and many dogs also find it fun and enjoyable. This can reduce boredom and anxiety, and you may notice that after a hydrotherapy session, your pet is calmer, happier and more playful.

Weight management

Older pooches are prone to piling on a few pounds, which places additional stress on the joints and muscles. This can make exercise even more difficult and can also damage their heart health and leave them more prone to other illnesses.

A tailored physio or hydrotherapy treatment plan can help your dog to maintain a consistent and manageable exercise routine that burns calories, keeps them fit, and be gently challenged without the risk of injury. This will help to lessen the effects of older age and ensure that your pet retains an appetite for life.