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Following some diagnoses and surgical interventions, animals are placed under restrictions, meaning that the Veterinarian or Physiotherapist has advised certain activities be limited, and perhaps others pursued.
Confinement and Cage Rest
There are several reasons why an animal might be confined. These are typically to allow for recovery, diminish loading and torque in injured structures and to allow for union and healing. Sick and injured animals naturally seek solitude, and a safe and comfortable environment, which is secluded, quiet and darkened is ideal. Post operative restrictions are an important part of the rehabilitation process in many surgical cases. Cage rest or confinement can be to a small room (laundry) or cage (small kennel, playpen, crate), where the bedding is on the floor. This ensures that the dog keeps fairly quiet and does not put himself at risk of harming a surgical repair, thus allowing tissues to heal without interruption or complications. Flooring needs to be non-slip, so that accidental slips and falls can be avoided. The bedding should be thick/padded enough to prevent pressure areas developing. Perforated non-slip rubber webbing, with newspaper underneath, makes for good flooring. The newspaper will absorb most of the moisture from any accidents or spills, and thus limit mess whilst providing a non-slip footing.
Restrictions
Animals are often limited to on-leash activities for a period of time (commonly weeks), sometimes even in the house, depending on the temperament and activity level of the dog. The purpose of imposing restrictions such as these is to minimise chances of exacerbation or failure of the condition/repair. Unforeseen and sudden events may have devastating outcomes, i.e. dog startled and subsequently bolts following a cruciate ligament repair. Rough play, running, jumping activities and sudden changes of direction must be avoided. Certain toys ("boredom-busters") may provide a good quiet diversion.
Prescribed Exercises
A Physiotherapist will most often prescribe certain exercises for you to do at home with your animal as part of the treatment. Prescribed exercises normally incorporate stretching certain anatomical structures, performing specific movement patterns, moving joints, and/or massage. These exercises are tailored specifically to the individual animal. Performing the activities as prescribed is an important part of the animal's recovery, as they can significantly improve the functional outcome and recovery time of the condition, so they should be adhered to diligently. The interaction with the animal can also replace normal quality time activities or games, and be a rewarding experience as some of the other every-day activities are off-bounds.
Nutrition and Feeding
Animals in recovery clearly need optimal nutrition. However; they will need fewer calories than usual because their activity levels are diminished. Weight gain can have a serious impact on the animal's condition and recovery, as well as future function and risk of re-injury. The animal's Veterinarian or Physiotherapist can discuss this with you, and recommend a suitable food and calculate amount to be fed. Additional treats should be kept to a minimum. This is a particularly difficult issue for owners, as feeding is seen as a very important part of the human-animal bond. Patting, grooming and chatting can be just as rewarding for the animal. You can also withhold some of the daily food ration, and give this as treats during the day, or place inside a suitable rubber toy for the animal to enjoy.
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© 2008 Animal Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Service