Dogs

Just like humans dogs can suffer from back, neck, pelvic and musculoskeletal pain.

Sudden traumas, or repetitive strains can cause problems, they can also be caused due to excess weight or conformational defects. Particular breeds and working dogs can, in addition, suffer injury due to the nature of their work. For example, greyhounds are at risk of injury from running on a tight track in one direction, whilst agility dogs can be injured if they encounter a particularly difficult obstacle. If these problems are not detected and treated they may lead to changes in behaviour or declines in performance.

What signs would suggest your dog would benefit from a treatment?

The canine spine is very flexible enabling dogs to move at speed and rapidly change direction with ease. Due to this great flexibility the muscles along the spine can be vulnerable to developing problems, which result from either acute or chronic causes. Within the normal daily activity of both pets and working dogs there are several possible factors that can cause muscular tension and asymmetry.

These signs indicate there may be an underlying issue that may benefit from a McTimoney treatment session:

  • Change in behaviour
  • Decline in performance
  • Stiffness and unwilling to bend
  • Lack of impulsion
  • Owners instinct that something is not right
  • Unlevelness, especially behind
  • Uneven pad/claw wear
  • Uneven muscle development or atrophy
  • Uneven or irregular action
  • Crying out when getting up
  • Difficulty climbing stairs or getting into cars
  • Signs of discomfort when being stroked on their backs
  • A reluctance to exercise
  • Stiffness or pain after exercise
  • Reluctance to exercise or play
  • Tripping or toe dragging

Treatment benefits

  • Increases range of motion and flexibility
  • Improves stamina
  • Improves the disposition
  • Provides comfort
  • Enhances performance
  • Enhances gait quality
  • Improves the circulation
  • Reduces the tactile defence
  • Relieves muscle tightness and spasms
  • Maximises nerve function
IEBWA: International Equine Body Worker Association