Case Studies:

Artaine Hart, Small Animal Physiotherapist, has been working with me and my dog, Scout, for several months. 

The background: 

As a young dog, Scout would limp occasionally and rest was initially prescribed. Her problem escalated and laser therapy was offered but with limited success. To exacerbate the problem, she injured herself in play, tearing the cartilage in her elbow joint. UAP was diagnosed after an MRI scan. 

Following an operation to remove the gristle from the joint, I was given a programme of recovery and physiotherapy was recommended, along with a joint supplement. 

She was also prescribed Librella by the vet. 

Scout is now seven. She has responded well to Librella but I feel that the physiotherapy she receives from Artaine is the single most important factor in recovery. 

Artaine is well-equipped, with a portable professional laser that allows her to make home visits. This has been important for Scout, as she is very anxious in strange environments and especially at vet surgeries! 

Our physio journey began with a thorough assessment of Scout’s condition, supported by a vet consent. She was observed in motion, was examined for limb movement and for muscle tension. Artaine diagnosed weakness in all limbs, with muscle atrophy evident. She found Scout to be tense in the neck area as a result of using her shoulders to compensate for her weakness. She was also cow-hocked and failing to track up in walk. Artaine was happy with Scout’s weight, stressing that excess weight adds stress to joints. 

A programme to support Scout and return her to comfortable movement was drawn up by Artaine and I was given a thorough report of her findings, along with recommendations for exercise and a programme of physio activities to build muscle to support her joints. 

The sessions were at first weekly, and as Scout began to show improvements we switched to a fortnightly programme, then three-weekly, and finally monthly. 

Each meeting begins with an assessment of Scout’s condition and a conversation on how she has been between sessions, including anything that might have added stress to her joints (such as over-exuberance that Scout is prone to!). A detailed report, with adjustments to the exercise programme if necessary, is sent following each session, typically within 24 hours. 

Scout’s moment has improved considerably since her work with Artaine began. She now tracks up in walk, has developed muscle mass in her hind legs (this is measured monthly) and is relaxed across her shoulders. 

These improvements have had a positive impact on Scout. It is evident that she is far more comfortable (no elaborate turning to find a comfortable position, no anxiety when near other dogs, a freer movement in her movement generally). 

During the sessions, Artaine performs a massage, too, which Scout particularly enjoys. 

If I have concerns about Scout’s movement between sessions, Artaine is always happy to bring sessions forward or do a little massage between sessions to maintain comfort. 

I am grateful to have found such a good physiotherapist in Artaine, and consider her work with Scout to be key to her good condition going forward. I have no doubt that the intervention has made Scout a happier dog and that it will likely lead to a longer life for her, too. 

L Walters