05/11/2023
Spring is in the air and so are ACL tears, did you know there are more injuries during Springtime? Just like us, be sure to warm your dogs muscles before hard exercise..
Did you know that ACL tears are one of the most common injuries in dogs, particularly in active and athletic breeds? But did you also know that there are steps you can take to help prevent this injury from happening in the first place? Here are some tips for reducing your dog's risk of an ACL tear:
1. Keep your dog at a healthy weight - Extra weight puts more stress on your dog's joints, including the knees, which can increase the risk of injury. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of ACL tears, as well as other joint-related issues.
2. Provide regular exercise and conditioning - Regular exercise, including activities like walking, running, and swimming, can help build strength and endurance in your dog's muscles and joints, reducing the risk of injury. Just like humans, dogs need to warm up and cool down before and after exercise, so make sure to provide adequate stretching and rest periods.
3. Use proper technique when playing and exercising with your dog - Dogs love to play and exercise, but certain activities can put a lot of strain on their joints, particularly the knees. Avoid sudden stops, starts, and turns, as well as repetitive jumping or twisting motions, which can put excessive stress on the ACL.
4. Avoid high-impact activities like jumping from heights or playing on hard surfaces - High-impact activities like jumping from heights or playing on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt can increase the risk of ACL tears, as well as other joint injuries. Instead, stick to low-impact activities like walking, running, or swimming on soft surfaces like grass or sand.
5. Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian, who can assess your dog's overall health, identify any potential risk factors, and provide personalized recommendations for preventative care - Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are important for maintaining your dog's overall health, but they can also help identify any underlying conditions or risk factors that may increase the risk of ACL tears. Your veterinarian can also provide guidance on proper nutrition, exercise, and other preventative measures to keep your dog healthy and happy.
At Steel City K9, we specialize in helping dogs recover from injuries like ACL tears, but we also believe in the power of prevention. By taking these steps, you can help keep your dog healthy and active for years to come!