Uecker, good to learn Geoff has then graduated from strict rest. Here are some tips that can help you understand why a slow and gradually re-entry to activity is important AND how to implement:
GRADUATION, A SLOW RE-INTRODUCTION Determine how you are going to ease back into more normal activity at graduation from rest. The idea is to gradually give more freedom under controlled conditions. Not free rein of the house and snowy yard immediately! LOL
Your dog's muscles are soft and out of shape after the rest period. Take a look at our information and begin where Geoff currently is with his physical endurance, since you've already been allowing in house walking. Gradually building your dogs muscles over a month's time will have your dog safely running and having fun again!
SAMPLE SCHEDULE
Here is a sample schedule to safely and slowly introduce your dog back to family life and physical activity:
www.dodgerslist.com/2020/06/15/back-friendly/?highlight=sample%20scheduleDIY back PROTECTION around the house
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1) Good ideas in making your home back friendly:
dodgerslist.com/2020/07/09/home-protect-ivdd-backs/2) Ideas and products to provide improved traction if Geoff is even slight bit hesitant to walk on smooth slipper floors if his leg function is not yet quite fully there:
www.dodgerslist.com/2022/10/08/traction-solution-improvements/3) Teach your dog to be safe and not jumping up or down, but to use a ramp whether over steps leading outdoors or to furniture in the house.
Dogs are best at visual learning rather than verbal commands. Dog trainer Anna Jane Grossman says “Dogs learn in pictures. Inside your dog’s brain is a very simple algorithm – pleasant images in one place and unpleasant images in another."
HAPPY DAYS AHEAD
You and Geoff have survived a disc herniation! Learn what you can do from this point forward.
-- Lots more ideas and tips in living with an IVDD dog such as dentals, nail trims, safe ways to have fun together, and more:
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www.dodgerslist.com/living-with-ivdd-tips-2 PT THERAPY AT CLINIC or HOME
Safety first. You should always consult with a veterinarian before starting any exercise program with your dog. For example, although senior Geoff needs to stay limber, if he has some arthritis might make certain movements inappropriate.
-- Strengthening core muscles.
This applies not just for humans, but REALLY applies to the IVDD dog:
Core exercises don't require specialized equipment. These are 4 exercises you can do at home: 1) Sit toStand, 2) Down to Stand, 3) Three Leg Stand, 4) Backing UP.
⚠️The last,
HIP extension, exercise is NOT for dogs with IVDD back disease!
May we turn the tables and ask YOU for help? Did you know there are less than a handful who volunteer daily to help dogs and their owners? We need helping hands from other Forum members in educating.
Education about disc disease is our number one mission!
We invite you to hop on to our educational bandwagon team. Too many dogs are put to sleep because owners lack education about IVDD treatment. STRICT crate rest and proper medication have helped many dogs recover. We depend on all members to pay it forward for the help they have received with their dog by helping us educate!
Pick what suits you....
We depend on you. Here are some ways to help..
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-- Please celebrate Goeff's graduation! Add a graduation photo and a short caption to our Gallery to give other members inspiration about your IVDD Survivor!
dodgerslist.boards.net/thread/2262/add-dog-dodgerslist-photo-gallery-- "Share" our FB posts
www.facebook.com/Dodgerslist-- When in conversation at the grocery store line or wherever you may meet breeds most prone to IVDD (Dachshunds, Beagles, Poodles, Spaniels, Shih Tzus, Pekingese, and Chihuahuas, Frenchies) give out our free little wallet cards.
Hand carry our literature and print out our letter of introduction for your vet.
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Order free BROCHURES and cards, they're free!◀︎
for your vet and wallet cards for you
-- Would you consider helping another trying to find a knowledgeable IVDD vet??
We have a directory where you can share conservative care info.
Here is the link where you can share your dog's info:
dodgerslist.boards.net/board/13/member-reported-surgery-costs-recommendationsState:
Veterinarian/Clinic:
Clinic Address and URL:
Date of Conservative treatment:
Comments:
And finally, don't be a stranger! Stop in periodically. We really do love to hear how your dog is doing. We'd love a short video clip to see Goeff in action at home, walking, and living & loving life in spite of IVDD!
if you see a new member in a tough spot, give them hope. A brief paragraph about your dog can be insanely supportive and inspiring in a time of need!
