Mary Allen
Introduction: Understanding IVDD and Dog Walking
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a common spinal condition that affects many dogs. It occurs when the discs between the vertebrae in the spine degenerate or herniate, causing pressure on the spinal cord. IVDD can cause pain, paralysis, and even death if left untreated. One of the most important aspects of caring for a dog with IVDD is post-surgery rest and rehabilitation.
Walking your dog after IVDD surgery is an important part of their recovery process. However, it is crucial to manage your dog’s activity levels to ensure they do not overexert themselves. Walking too much or too soon after surgery can cause further damage to their spine and lengthen their recovery time.
The Importance of Post-Surgery Rest for Your Dog
After IVDD surgery, your dog needs plenty of rest to allow their body to heal and recover. Rest helps to reduce inflammation, ease pain, and prevent further damage to the spine. Your dog may need to be crated or confined to a small area to limit their movement and prevent them from jumping or running. It is also important to limit their activity levels, including walking, for the first few weeks after surgery.
Overexertion can cause your dog’s back to become inflamed and painful, which can set back their recovery. It is crucial to follow your vet’s instructions for post-surgery care to ensure your dog has the best chance of a full recovery. This includes limiting activity levels and gradually increasing exercise as your dog’s condition improves.
When Can My Dog Start Walking After IVDD Surgery?
Your vet will give you specific instructions on when your dog can start walking after IVDD surgery. The timeline will depend on the severity of your dog’s condition and the type of surgery they had. In general, most dogs can start walking short distances within a few days to a week after surgery.
However, it is important to keep in mind that every dog is different, and their recovery timeline may vary. It is crucial to follow your vet’s instructions and monitor your dog’s behavior and movements closely to ensure they are not overdoing it.
The First Week After IVDD Surgery: What to Expect
During the first week after IVDD surgery, your dog will need plenty of rest and minimal activity. Your vet may recommend crate rest or confinement to a small area to limit your dog’s movement. You should also avoid any strenuous activities such as jumping, running, or playing.
Your dog may need help with basic functions such as eating, drinking, and going to the bathroom. You may also need to administer medication or apply cold compresses to reduce inflammation and ease pain. It is crucial to monitor your dog’s behavior for signs of pain or discomfort and contact your vet if you notice anything unusual.
The Second Week: Gradually Increasing Activity
During the second week after IVDD surgery, your dog may be ready to start increasing their activity levels gradually. Your vet may recommend short, controlled walks to help your dog regain strength and mobility. However, it is crucial to monitor your dog’s behavior closely to ensure they are not overdoing it.
Your dog may still require crate rest or confinement when not on a walk. You should avoid any activities that could cause strain or stress on your dog’s back, such as jumping or running. Your vet may also recommend rehabilitation exercises or physical therapy to help your dog recover faster.
The Third Week: Slow and Steady Progress
By the third week after IVDD surgery, your dog may be showing signs of improvement and mobility. However, it is crucial to continue monitoring your dog’s behavior and activity levels closely. You should gradually increase your dog’s walking distance and duration, but always stop if your dog shows any signs of pain or discomfort.
Your vet may recommend additional rehabilitation exercises or physical therapy to help your dog regain strength and mobility. It is important to follow their instructions and schedule regular check-ups to ensure your dog is on track for a full recovery.
The Fourth Week: Preparing for Longer Walks
By the fourth week after IVDD surgery, your dog may be ready to start preparing for longer walks and more strenuous activities. However, it is crucial to continue monitoring your dog’s behavior and activity levels closely. You should gradually increase your dog’s activity levels and always stop if your dog shows any signs of pain or discomfort.
Your vet may recommend additional rehabilitation exercises or physical therapy to help your dog regain strength and mobility. It is important to schedule regular check-ups to ensure your dog is making progress and on track for a full recovery.
Recommended Time Frame for Short Walks
When starting to walk your dog after IVDD surgery, it is recommended to keep their walks short and controlled. A good starting point is 5-10 minutes, 2-3 times a day. You should gradually increase the duration of the walks over the next few weeks, but always stop if your dog shows any signs of pain or discomfort.
Recommended Time Frame for Moderate Walks
Once your dog has been walking for a few weeks after IVDD surgery, you can gradually increase the duration and frequency of their walks. A good goal is to aim for 20-30 minutes of moderate walking, 2-3 times a day. However, it is crucial to monitor your dog’s behavior closely and always stop if they show any signs of pain or discomfort.
Recommended Time Frame for Long Walks
After several weeks of recovery and rehabilitation, your dog may be ready for longer walks and more strenuous activities. A good goal is to aim for 45-60 minutes of walking, 2-3 times a day. However, it is important to monitor your dog’s behavior closely and always stop if they show any signs of pain or discomfort.
Signs That Your Dog is Overdoing It
It is crucial to monitor your dog’s behavior closely after IVDD surgery to ensure they are not overdoing it. Signs that your dog may be in pain or discomfort include limping, whining, panting, restlessness, or reluctance to move. If you notice any of these signs, you should stop the activity immediately and contact your vet.
Conclusion: Caring for Your Dog After IVDD Surgery
Caring for a dog after IVDD surgery requires patience, diligence, and close attention to your dog’s needs. It is crucial to follow your vet’s instructions for post-surgery care, including rest and rehabilitation. Walking your dog after surgery is an important part of their recovery process, but it is crucial to manage their activity levels to ensure they do not overexert themselves. By following your vet’s instructions and monitoring your dog’s behavior closely, you can help your dog make a full recovery and get back to their happy, healthy self.