How do I know if my dog has back pain? – helpful tips and treatment methods
If your dog has back pain, you probably want nothing more than to help the animal. Still, recognizing back pain in dogs can be tricky. It is also important to find an appropriate treatment method for your dog’s back pain. That’s why we will tell you everything you need to know about back pain in dogs, along with the best tips for finding a good treatment method.
How do I know if my dog has back pain?
It can be difficult to recognize if your dog has back pain. This is because, of course, dogs cannot talk and their behavior often does not make a big change. Still, there are some things you can look out for. These are symptoms of (low) back pain in dogs:
- Changes in back posture;
- Difficulty moving;
- Pain reactions when touching the back;
- Changes in eating habits;
- Changes in behavior;
- Stiffness in the neck and back, when stretching for example;
- Changes in gait pattern.
Many symptoms are easier to recognize while walking. For example, a dog may have back pain when walking. If you think your four-legged friend has back trouble, try to be as gentle as possible with the animal. To get certainty, it is always wise to visit the veterinarian.
How do you know if your dog has a hernia?
Not only humans, but also dogs can get a hernia. This is a common problem in dogs. You can usually recognize a herniated disc in a dog faster than other types of back pain in a dog. Below you can read how to recognize a hernia in your dog.
What are the symptoms of a hernia in a dog?
Below you can read what the symptoms of a hernia in your four-legged friend are. Remember, if you think your dog has a hernia, make an appointment with the veterinarian. Only the doctor can really rule out a hernia as well. These are some of the symptoms of a back hernia in a dog:
- Sudden paralysis or weakness;
- Pain reactions when touched, such as squealing or growling;
- Change in attitude or behavior;
- Muscle weakness;
- Incontinence.
Sometimes a dog with a hernia may also twitch or the animal may not urinate. These are all symptoms that require investigation and treatment.
How does a dog with a hernia walk?
A dog with back pain or a herniated disc may show abnormalities while walking. For example, a dog may walk a little stiffer, have an abnormal posture or move erratically. Keep in mind that your dog’s gait does not always have to be abnormal. Some animals are less likely to show when they are in pain.
Can a hernia in a dog go away on its own?
Hernias in dogs do not usually go away on their own. It is a structural disorder in which tissues are pushed out of their normal position. This can lead to discomfort and complications for your pet.
How do you treat a dog’s hernia?
Treatment of a hernia in dogs depends on the severity of the symptoms. So for this, it is always important to have this examined by the veterinarian. Below you will read about some treatments that can help your dog.
Rest and limited activity
It may help to let your dog rest as much as possible for a certain amount of time. This will limit activities that may affect the herniated disc and prevent stress on the painful area.
Physiotherapy
Physical therapy can help your dog reduce pain and symptoms. This is often recommended to strengthen tissues, improve mobility and promote healing. Hernia massage is also often used.
Hernia surgery in a dog
In some cases, it may be necessary to correct the hernia during surgery. This may involve removal or repair of the hernia, depending on the severity and needs of the dog.
Red light therapy
Nowadays, red light therapy is increasingly used in dogs. This therapy integrates with the tissues and cells which can reduce pain and symptoms of the herniated disc. The therapy is popular because of the good stories and the fact that you can perform it on your pet yourself. Read more about light therapy in dogs below.
Can laser therapy help dogs with pain?
Low level laser therapy, also called red light therapy, is a good treatment for your dog’s hernia. Laser therapy is also a good treatment option for other back problems in dogs.
Does laser therapy work for dogs?
Low-level laser therapy uses low levels of laser light to stimulate cellular processes. This can help relieve pain and symptoms. Here’s why laser therapy can work for your dog:
- Pain relief;
- Anti-inflammatory effect;
- Better blood flow;
- Accelerated recovery.
Is there science behind red light therapy?
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 dog’s body. This reduces pain, swelling, inflammation and various conditions. This therapy can be used in both humans and animals.
What can PowerCure do for your dog?
The PowerCure laser has already helped many dogs reduce pain, complaints and conditions. Thus, we have already received many good experiences from dogs and their owners. The cost of laser therapy in dogs is also often less than what you have to pay for other treatment methods.
You can purchase the PowerCure (Pro) laser yourself for home use. So you can treat your beloved four-legged friend yourself in their familiar place. And the laser is not only useful for your dog, but it can also be a good tool for yourself, your roommates and your other pets. And it can be used for almost any complaint!
Want to learn more about the PowerCure (Pro) laser and what it can help you with? Then especially take a look here.