In Week 8, we continue to focus on strengthening your dog’s hind limbs with controlled leash walking on hills, while also emphasizing which exercises you should maintain for ongoing recovery. We’ll also discuss when it’s appropriate to discontinue certain therapies like moist heat, PROM, and massage while highlighting the continued benefits of massage.
WEEK 8: Advanced Recovery and Strength Building
1. Discontinuing Moist Heat, PROM, and Massage
If your dog is consistently using its limb, it’s safe to stop using moist heat, PROM (Passive Range of Motion), and routine massage at this stage. However, massage remains a valuable tool and can still be used as needed, especially for:
- Bonding with your dog.
- Alleviating muscle tension.
- Supporting relaxation and comfort.
Feel free to incorporate massage into your routine if your dog enjoys it or benefits from it.
2. Controlled Leash with Hill Work
Walking on hills or slopes is one of the best exercises to strengthen your dog’s hind limbs and improve joint functionality.
Why hill walking works:
- Uphill walking: Shifts weight to the rear legs, increasing muscle engagement and improving hip and knee extension.
- Downhill walking: Requires more flexion and extension of the hip, knee, and hock joints, providing a balanced workout.
How to perform:
- Choose a hill or slope with a gentle incline.
- Use a short leash to maintain control and slow, deliberate walking.
- Monitor for signs of discomfort, such as limping or reluctance to continue.
- If the hill is too steep, break the exercise into smaller portions.
3. Exercises to Continue
- Sit-to-Stand Exercises:
- These help improve strength and balance in the hind limbs.
- Aim for controlled, deliberate movements to maximize the benefits.
- Figure 8’s:
- Walking in a Figure 8 pattern promotes agility, flexibility, and improved range of motion.
- Perform in a slow, controlled manner, focusing on even weight distribution.
- Curb Work:
- Stepping up and down a curb enhances muscle strength, balance, and joint stability.
- Ensure the curb height matches your dog’s size and ability.
Sit To Stand
Curb Work
Figure 8's
Sit To Stand
Figure 8's
Curb Work
Week 8 Takeaway
This week emphasizes progression through hill work and maintaining core exercises like Sit-to-Stand, Figure 8’s, and Curb Work to continue building strength and mobility. Massage can be a comforting addition to your routine, even after discontinuing other therapies. Keep up the great effort—your dog is well on its way to full recovery! 🐾
