Week 6
Week 8

WEEK 7: Advanced Exercises for Recovery

As your dog progresses through Week 7 of recovery, it’s time to add exercises that focus on improving strength, weight-bearing, and body awareness. These include weave poles for strengthening hind legs and weight shifting to encourage proper use of the surgically repaired leg.

1. Weave Poles

Weave poles are an excellent way to enhance your dog’s hind leg strength, balance, and foot placement awareness.

How to perform weave poles:

  1. Set up a line of poles (or similar objects like cones or even household items) spaced about 2 feet apart.
  2. Lead your dog through the poles in a zig-zag pattern using a short leash for control.
  3. Start slow, encouraging your dog to lift and bend their legs as they navigate through the poles.

Benefits of weave poles:

  • Strengthens hind legs.
  • Improves body awareness and coordination.
  • Encourages slow, deliberate movements that aid in rehabilitation.

Tips:

  • Be patient and reward your dog for completing the exercise.
  • Gradually increase difficulty by shortening the spacing between poles as your dog gains confidence.

2. Weight Shifting

Weight shifting is a simple yet powerful exercise to encourage weight-bearing on the surgically repaired leg and improve overall stability.

How to perform weight shifting:

  1. Position yourself behind your dog’s hind end while they are standing.
  2. Gently place your hands on their hips.
  3. Slowly and gently rock their hips back and forth, ensuring even pressure in both directions.
  4. Perform this exercise at a slow and steady pace.

When to start:

  • Begin as soon as your dog is toe-touching with the repaired leg.

Benefits of weight shifting:

  • Encourages use of the repaired leg.
  • Improves balance and weight distribution.
  • Promotes stability and confidence in standing.

Important considerations:

  • Be gentle and monitor your dog for any signs of discomfort.
  • Stop the exercise if your dog seems unwilling or experiences pain.

Week 7 Takeaway

Incorporating weave poles and weight shifting into your routine will accelerate your dog’s recovery by building strength, balance, and confidence. Remember, consistency and patience are key to helping your dog regain full mobility. Keep up the great work—you’re making a huge difference in your dog’s healing journey!