Taking care of a dog can be a difficult process. Many dogs will end up needing surgery as they age. One of the most important ways to help your dog recover from surgery of any kind is through physical therapy. Your veterinarian should be able to give your dog physical therapy, but it can also be done at home cheaply.
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Massage Therapy
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Before you start a regimented exercise routine, it may be best to start with some gentle massage therapy. It can also help relax muscles and stimulate healing by promoting blood flow. Start by gently rubbing the area where the dog is recovering. Don't rub directly on the wound as this may cause pain. Rub the muscles near the area with small motions. Use your thumbs and be semi-firm. Don't push down as this may distress your dog. The rubbing should be somewhat pleasant yet still firm enough to be considered a massage. If done right, the dog will simply think you are massaging him and enjoy his daily massage therapy. If your dog shows obvious signs of distress, stop your massage therapy as it may be too soon for physical therapy to begin.
Resistance Therapy
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Resistance therapy will help rebuild your dog's strength following any surgery. The intensity of the exercise should be decided by the severity of her pain. Don't do any exercises that can hurt your dog. Swim therapy is a good first step in a resistance program. Swimming will take a lot of the pressure off of the dog's body, which will help relieve any pain that comes from aching joints. The dog should be in over its head during this therapy. Stay nearby to calm the dog if it gets upset. A few laps should be all he needs. Once your dog has built up some strength, walking or running a few miles can be an excellent therapy for your dog and for you. Start out slow, by walking and then move up to running.
Balance Therapy
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After surgery, your dog may become disoriented and lose his balance easily. This will make physical therapy difficult. If your dog seems off in his balance, try some balance therapy. Lay a few boards on the ground, wide side down. Put your dog on a leash and lead him over the boards. He should try to stay on the board as he walks. If he struggles, support him with your hands. Another way for a dog to work on his balancing is a treadmill. Unlike running on the ground, which can be done over a wide area, it takes concentration and balance to stay on a treadmill. Hold his leash and have another person stand to the side or behind the treadmill to support him as he runs. The treadmill also doubles as an excellent resistance therapy exercise.
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