Crate rest or exercise confinement is a vital component of the healing process for dogs recovering from surgery or injury. Many pets struggle with self-limiting their activity and do not understand the need for restriction, making it the owner’s responsibility to ensure they adhere to the necessary limitations. This can be a stressful period for owners, especially if their dog is typically very active or prone to hyperactivity. In this blog post, we will explore essential tips to ensure your dog's comfort and well-being during confinement, helping you create a routine that prevents boredom and supports a full and speedy recovery.
Consult Your Veterinarian First
Not all surgeries or injuries require confinement. Your veterinarian will provide specific recommendations based on your dog's condition, including the necessary restrictions and appropriate activities. Always consult your vet before deciding on confinement to ensure you are following the best course of action for your pet's recovery.
Understanding the Purpose of Confinement
Preventing Further Injury: After surgery or injury, the affected area needs time to heal. Excessive movement can hinder the healing process and potentially cause further damage. Confinement minimises the risk of reinjury by restricting your dog's movement and exposure to hazards such as stairs or slippery surfaces.
Immobilisation and Stabilisation: Certain surgeries or injuries require immobilisation of the affected area. Confining your dog to a crate or restricted area ensures they don’t put strain on the injured area, promoting proper alignment, reducing swelling, and supporting recovery.
Rest and Reduced Activity: Rest is crucial for healing. Confinement limits your dog's physical activity, allowing their body to conserve energy and focus on healing. This also helps reduce inflammation, pain, and discomfort.
Your veterinarian will recommend the duration of confinement based on soft tissue or bone healing principles. At Paws in Motion, we guide you through this process as physiotherapy professionals, recommending specific restrictions and follow-ups tailored to your pet's condition.
Setting Up Your Confinement Area
Location: Dogs are social animals and being isolated can cause stress. Set up the confinement area in a frequently used room like the kitchen or living area. Rotating the confinement area to different parts of the room or house periodically can provide a change of scenery and prevent monotony.
Size: The confinement area should be large enough for your dog to move around, adjust positions, stand, turn, and walk slowly. A space that is too large might lead to running or tripping. If you confine your dog to a larger area, use a kennel or crate when unsupervised.
Barriers: Use barriers to control the size of the area rather than closing your dog off in a separate room. Ensure the barriers are high enough to prevent your dog from jumping or climbing over them. You might need to get creative with materials like cardboard for extra height.
Flooring: Ensure the confinement area has non-slip flooring or is lined with non-slip mats, such as yoga mats, to prevent injuries. If using pee pads for toileting, position them away from food, water, and resting areas. Rotate toys regularly to maintain novelty.
Toileting and Going Outside
Establish a schedule for regular bathroom breaks to ensure your dog's comfort and prevent accidents. Always keep your dog on a leash during these breaks and walk them separately from other dogs. Walks should be slow and calm, avoiding areas with high human or dog traffic. Allow your dog to indulge in sniffing and enjoying the outdoors, provided it can be done under control. Follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding any restrictions on walking or other activities.
Relieving Boredom
While physical activity is restricted, prioritize social interaction and mental stimulation. Spend time with your dog offering cuddles and reassurance. Simply sitting with your dog while reading or watching TV counts as quality time.
Here are some activities to alleviate boredom:
Training and Tricks: Use this time to brush up on training, tricks, and commands. Focus on commands like recall, “drop it,” and target training. Ensure tricks like “high-five” do not interfere with the injured area.
Treat Dispensing Toys: Toys like Kongs and snuffle mats can be mentally stimulating. Hide treats inside Kongs and even freeze wet food or peanut butter to extend the activity time.
Puzzle Games: Easily found in pet shops or made at home, puzzle games exercise your dog's sense of smell and problem-solving skills.
Managing Stress
Maintaining a calm environment is essential during your dog's recovery. Minimise stressful or exciting interactions by limiting visits from strangers. Consider natural calming aids such as pheromone diffusers or soothing music. Products like the Calmer Canine loop and veterinary calming supplements like Zylkene can help relieve stress without sedative effects.
By following these tips, you can create a supportive environment for your dog's recovery, ensuring their comfort and well-being while promoting a full and speedy recovery.
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