FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: My dog was recently hit by a car. Is there anything you can do to help him?
A: Absolutely. Depending on the nature and severity of the injuries there are all kinds of modalities we can use to help your animal heal. Massage, stretching, ice, heat, range of motion, assisted exercises, swimming all can be used together or separately to help bring your animal back to normal function.
Q: My dog is disabled and it is hard for me to transport her. Can you come to my house to work on her?
A: Actually that is exactly what I do for some of my clients. I have found that it can be much easier for the animal to be worked on in its own environment, especially the disabled ones. They tend to be more relaxed and more receptive to the work if they are in their own home. For swim therapy some times I might need to swim the dog in another place but we can work out transporting the dog, no problem.
Q: My dog had its leg amputated. Can you help her walk again?
A: Of course. Massage can be very helpful post-amputation not only around the recently operated area, but sometimes even more importantly on the opposite leg and surrounding muscles. They can develop overuse injuries from having to suddenly start doing all the work and will need extra support to keep strong.
Q: My dog had a stroke and is paralyzed. What should I do?
A: This is my specialty. I have a wealth of information and first hand knowledge in supporting paralyzed animals. We can do a wide range of things to help your dog keep as much muscle tone and function as possible. I usually start them in a Walkabout Harness to keep them as supple as possible and after time some of them move on to the cart. But do not give up hope! Being paralyzed is by no means a death sentence.
Q: My dog is very overweight and sedentary. She has a very hard time getting around. Can you help?
A: While paralysis is my specialty, obesity and exercise are my passions! A huge majority of the animals I work on are overweight and most vets consider it the number one health problem that they see. When you are dealing with an injured animal that is also overweight, it is extremely important to get the weight off to help the animal ambulate. I can develop diet and exercise programs for any animal (yes, even diabetic ones) and will work with you to help get your animal back into shape.
Need more answers? E-mail us at val@twohandsfourpaws.com
© 2003 Two Hands Four Paws, Inc.
Canine Massage Therapy, Rehabilitation and Swim Therapy
