Exercises during an injury

[Nikki's Dad]

My poor Nikki (female rotti - 2yrs 8 months 77lbs.) hurt herself running in the snow a few weeks ago. She came up lame, and after taking her to the Vet and viewing X-rays it was determined that her knee was the problem. I took her to an orthopedic surgeon and he said that she definitely hurt her knee in her hind right leg, possibly her ACL, but did not tear anything and should not require surgery.

About 4 days after she originally hurt the leg she has been putting her foot down, walking, running, and jumping on it as usual. She acts as if she was never hurt at all. I have been advised to massage the area and let her rest as much as possible for the next few months to avoid surgery. My problem is, I have no idea how to exercise her now. In the past I would take her for 35-45 minute walks daily while she would be wearing her backpack filled with items to add weight. Now I can only walk her for maybe 25-30 min a day with no backpack.

Are there any other ways I can help to exercise her so she does not get bored or start to put on weight? Also I was told that a doggy pool would be perfect for her injury but I have no idea as to where to even begin searching for one.

PLEASE HELP!!!

[SABELLESMOM]

Definately REST the dog, beyond walking. If the ACL was involved, but not torn, you can picture a partial shredding of the ligament.

Shreds nead time to heal. they form a little bit of scar tissue to fill in where the shredding was. This type of healing must occur before she can run and jump safely again.

Walks are fine. Swimming would also be fine, if you can find a place to do it. They are not necessary to facilitate healing. Walks will be enough.

Try games that will require her to think. Hide a treat in a plastic container, and let her shake it out. Or... if the container has a larger opening, just make sure it's big enough not to trap her face.

She sounds as if she's in good shape. I know, we've been boating, swimming, and hiking many times with our girls. I do agility, now.

It's hard to "tone it down" for an injury. But do it. It's important for her to heal, first. Then you can have fun again.

[Ayoka]

I agree that limited exercise is the key here.

Wehn Bear hurt his leg it was muscle so we went to see a canine massage therapist who worked wonders...you should look up "canine rehab, your city/town) in google and you might get some sites to places that offer, physio, massage, swimming and/or acupuncture...

Another thing that was suggested to me was to continue our glucosamine supplements but to add salmon oil and a homeopathic product called Traumeel - both are natural anti-inflammatories. If she will lay down long enough for you to ice the area, you can do that too.