Dr. Kathleen Smith of Furever Strong K9 Rehab understands how much our dogs mean to us. Originally, Dr. Kat began her journey as a physical therapist working with people for nine years. Yet when her beloved dog, Aurora, started showing signs of slowing down, her thoughts turned to helping her. Using her knowledge of massage and physical medicine, she began working on bringing Aurora back to her old self. The benefits of which became clear, and Aurora resumed her spark.
This experience inspired Dr. Kat to look further into what she saw as an underserved population... dogs. Queen Creek in particular seems to be filled with dogs and dog lovers alike. Dr. Kat herself is the proud owner of three dogs, and so knows something about that vital connection. Not only that but how a dog's activity level can also affect its owner. In fact, as older dogs reduce in activity due to aches and pains, both the dog and dog owner can be affected on many levels by the decline in mobility. Dr. Kat says these changes can even result in a shared depression over what may be seen as the end. However, Dr. Kat insists that there are solutions. She works with dogs of all ages and various issues, ranging from post-surgery to injuries, to arthritis and hip dysplasia.
Through a consistent regimen and thoughtful care, Dr. Kat believes that a dog's quality of life can be greatly improved. Furever Strong K9 Rehab makes house calls and using a bag of her own equipment, or even whatever may be available in the home, she works to address the specific issue. First, she begins with a thorough evaluation, sometimes in coordination with a veterinarian's diagnosis. Once the dog is assessed, Dr. Kat creates a plan of care. Very often, weekly sessions run for about 60 minutes each for the first month. Depending on each case, a continued routine is established with Dr. Kat's oversight and advice.
Dr. Kat also considers other contributing factors like weight and diet. Working with the owners, she establishes a healthy approach that helps your dog recover or even overcomes the pain that might otherwise hold them back. Our dogs can't tell us what is bothering them, but still, we know when something is not right. If you think your dog might need to build up strength and mobility, contact Dr. Kat at Furever Strong K9 Rehab. fureverstrongk9rehab.com
Signs Your Dog Is Slowing Down
from Dr. Kathleen Smith of Furever Strong K9 Rehab
1. Reluctant to go outside.
A dog may show less interest in going for a walk or a hike due to increased pain. This could be an indication something is bothering them.
2. Less energy.
Pain takes a lot out of anyone, so it is no surprise that our dogs behave much as we do. If they seem to be less interested of late, discomfort or pain could be a contributing factor.
3. Any limping while walking or running.
Is your dog not going up and down the stairs quite like they used to? Perhaps they aren't running as well in the yard or in the park. Look out for any change in their gait or subtle limping.
4. Any recent injuries or surgeries.
If your dog is just recovering from an injury or dealing with post-surgery healing, they may be stiff and need some care.
5. Age-related issues.
Older dogs can be affected by arthritis, while younger dogs can face issues like hip dysplasia.