“Playing on the dock” is relished by both the handler and their dog. However, if the dog starts to demonstrate diminished performance, many handlers feel there may be a disconnect with the dog or the dog is losing interest in the sport. Though there may be some dogs where that is true, more likely is the fact the dog may be showing early signs of injury. As mentioned in the last newsletter, minor injuries may be found in the toes, shoulders, hips, stifles, back and pelvis. These early, minor injuries can prevent the dog from performing to its utmost potential.
Subtle, early signs of problems
According to John Nielsen, “Very early, subtle signs of minor injury may include a change in sit posture (instead of sitting “square” the dog starts to sit on one hip or avoids sitting altogether), a slower speed when changing body positions (stand to a sit or vice versa), a hesitation to use stairs, a reluctance to get on or off furniture or use stairs, hesitancy to get in and out of a vehicle or even a subtle change in how the dog moves during daily activity.”
Nielsen added, “Before assuming any decreased performance of the dog is related to a miscue between you and the dog, or a rising disinterest from the dog, consider having the dog evaluated by a veterinary sports medicine specialist. There may be easily reversible and minor changes in the dog’s muscles or joints affecting its performance. As a reminder, the dog should be athletically fit enough to participate regularly in the chosen event.” Body awareness, core muscle strength and stability, and body control (being able to accelerate and decelerate rapidly and safely) should be present in a well-conditioned dog.
In future newsletters, John Nielsen will explore early signs your dog may have an injury, possible treatment options for the more common injuries associated with dock diving dogs, and simple exercises that you could include in warm-up routines that will reduce the occurrence of injuries. Nielsen, CVT, VTS (ECC, Physical Rehabilitation), CVPP, CCRP, CCFT, is the Co-Owner and Lead Practitioner of K-9 In Motion. His 25+ years of veterinary experience includes practicing and teaching at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Teaching Hospital, working in small animal and exotic general practice, working in emergency and specialty medicine, and working in the sports medicine field. John is a double-boarded veterinary technician specialist in Emergency and Critical Care and Physical Rehabilitation. In the meantime, enjoy the time spent participating in the sport with your dog, and good luck!
K-9 In Motion, LLC.
Cottage Grove, Minn.
612-240-8640