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4 tips for treating a hernia in your dog

A herniated disc in your dog can be very unpleasant for the four-legged friend. It can cause pain and movement problems, especially in certain breeds. Symptoms can range from difficulty walking to trembling or even problems urinating. But how do you really recognize a hernia in a dog and what can you do to promote recovery? You can read about that in this article.

How do you recognize a hernia in a dog?

Recognizing the condition can be tricky. Many symptoms are often not immediately apparent. These may be recognizable signs:

  • Difficulty walking: a herniated disc in the middle back or neck can lead to stiff movements or difficulty walking;
  • Trembling: the quadruped may often start trembling or shaking, especially around the painful area;
  • Avoiding movement: dogs with herniated discs often avoid movements such as jumping or running;
  • Problems with urination: some quadrupeds have difficulty urinating.

How do I know if my dog has a hernia?

Do you notice your beloved pet exhibiting any of these symptoms? If so, consult a veterinarian. This condition can often be confirmed with a scan and physical examination. Only the veterinarian can give a true diagnosis.

dog jumps into green lawn
Source: Pexels

Can a hernia in dogs go away on its own?

An acute hernia in a dog often needs medical attention. This way you can prevent severe pain or permanent damage. In contrast, some mild hernias can improve with adequate rest.

Can a dog live with a hernia?

Yes, it certainly can. With proper treatment, the animal can often function well. In some cases, it may be necessary to consider surgery. However, this is unnecessary in many cases with proper care.

What does hernia surgery cost on a dog?

The cost of surgery can vary greatly. Sometimes an operation can cost thousands of dollars. The specific price depends on the veterinarian. Always make sure you are clear before surgery.

hip dysplasia in dogs

What can you do to treat a hernia in your dog?

There are several options for treating hernia symptoms in dogs. There are treatments aimed at both recovery and pain relief. Below you can read about some of the most effective options.

1. Rest and less exercise

Rest is essential for your four-legged friend. During recovery, the animal should not jump, run or take long walks. Rest gives the body a chance to reduce swelling and inflammation around the condition.

How long should a dog with a hernia rest?

This depends on the severity of the condition. The veterinarian can best advise you on the rest period.

2. Physical therapy and massage

Physical therapy for dogs can be effective. This helps to strengthen the muscles around the herniated disc and relieve pressure on the spine. There are also specific exercises for a neck or mid-back hernia. Massage can also help relieve tension. The animal physical therapist can recommend the right exercises to suit your four-legged friend.

3. Medication and acupuncture

Medication can help reduce pain and inflammation. This is actually necessary to make your pet comfortable. Medication for your dog’s hernia can include anti-inflammatories and painkillers.

Acupuncture is also increasingly used to provide relief. This can also improve the animal’s mobility.

4. Red light therapy

Laser therapy with red light is an effective and non-invasive way for hernia symptoms in dogs. With the PowerCure laser, you can easily treat your dog from home with red light therapy. The red light can reduce inflammation and promotes the natural healing process.

Light therapy is safe, painless and can help with acute hernias. This is because it improves blood circulation. This can also relieve inflammation around the affected area.

powercure laser benefits

PowerCure for extra support for a herniated disc

Are you looking for a natural way to reduce your four-legged friend’s hernia symptoms? Then use the PowerCure red light therapy laser. This powerful device uses red light to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Designed to be self-administered, PowerCure provides support for both acute and chronic symptoms. For humans and animals alike!

Is red light therapy scientifically proven?

The use of low level laser therapy, also called red light therapy, is scientifically proven. This therapy uses laser devices with a special frequency of low-level laser light energy. This light creates interactions with the tissues in your body. This reduces pain, swelling, inflammation and various conditions.
Want to learn more about how PowerCure can help your pet (and yourself!) recover? Then take a look at our website.