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1Animal Therapy Magazine | WINTER 2017

M A G A Z I N EWINTER 2017

AnimalTherapy

2 Animal Therapy Magazine | WINTER 2017

Elephant Osteopathy Workshop

Come and join us for this year’s exciting workshop where osteopaths get to pitch their skills and osteopathic principles to treating one of natures greatest species.

Set in the heart of the Golden Triangle, on the northern borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myannmar (Burma) you will be introduced to some of the 30 Asian Elephants that are employed by the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation (GTAEF).

By joining us you will be able to contribute towards helping these individuals, as well as supporting the valuable conservation work that GTAEF and Zoo Ost Ltd are involved with.

THAILAND, MARCH 15th - 19th 2017

ITINERARY

DAY 1Health and safety briefing, elephant introductions, observations and gait analysis, some palpation and treatment techniques

DAY 2Walk with elephants, observation, palpation and treatment

DAY 3River trip to see how not to employ elephants, lunch, drive to Temple for afternoon

DAY 4Observe, palpate, treat elephants

DAY 5Final checks/treatments, re assess gaits of patients, view footage comparing before and after treatment programme results, visit opium museum. Gala evening meal – with CPD certificates presented.

Fees are £1850 room sharing and £2450 single room supplement, and include 5 star hotel room, B&B, all elephant excursions, museum visit, as well as lunch on day 3. All other meals and drinks are excluded as are flights.

ZOO OST LTD, 29 Alstone Croft, Cheltenham, Glos. GL51 8HBTel: 01242 221153 [email protected] www.zooost.com

To book

your place

call 01242

221153

Animal Therapy Magazine is one of a kind.

The publication’s sole aim is to inform professionals and owners of current and pioneering treatments and techniques.

Featuring interviews with top professionals in the field, real life case studies and up-to-date news and reviews, Animal Therapy Magazine is a must have for anyone involved with animals; whether that is in a professional capacity, pet owner or both.

• Quarterly publication• Circulated nationwide• Online version• Targeted audience and distribution• Course and CPD information• Editorials written by highly regarded industry professionals• Case studies• Professional profiles• Product reviews• Interviews AnimalTherapy


M A G A Z I N EWINTER 2017

AnimalTherapy

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While every effort has been made to ensure that information is correct at the time of going to print, Animal Therapy Media Ltd cannot be held responsible for the outcome of any action or decision based on the information contained in this publication/website. The publishers or authors do not give any warranty for the completeness or accuracy for this publication’s content, explanation or opinion. No part of this publication and/or website may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without prior written permission of Animal Therapy Media Ltd and/or the authors of the articles within. Permission is only deemed valid if approval is in writing.

Front cover photo: Ben Hastie Photography 07970 348883

Back on Track _____ 4

Vet Festival 2017 ___ 6

Westcoast Hydrotherapy _____ 8

Physiotherapy for Performance _____ 10

StreamZ_________ 15

McTimoney ______ 18

Anna Webb ______ 20

Equine Gastro Intestinal Tract Health __________ 24

Idiopathic Epilepsy in Dogs _________ 27

Putting Animals First ____________ 29

MSK Animal/Veterinary Group __________ 30

RAMP ___________ 33

Tony NevinPrickly Patients ___ 34

Team Cold Feet –Photizo _________ 38

Ultrasound Therapy _________ 42

Canine Groin Muscles _________ 46

Sherry Scott _____ 50

M A G A Z I N EAnimalTherapy

Welcome!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

We are kicking off 2017 as we mean to go on, with conferences and shows from the off! We are very much looking forward to SPATEX at the end of January and of course the FORWARD Symposium at the start of February. Further into the year we are delighted to have been asked to be media partners with the Vet Festival again and we are in conversation with a number of other events, so it is looking to be a very exciting year.

As ever, our contributors have excelled themselves and despite January typically feeling like you are walking through treacle, we have been inundated with fabulous articles, we hope you agree.

Having attended the London Vet Show at the end of last year, and constantly keeping a breadth of emerging companies, it is amazing how many new and innovative products are out there. The therapy world is constantly evolving and this is why we created the magazine. You need to know about the existence of these products and how they can really enhance you or your animal’s life, so as ever, we hope you enjoy reading this issue. Let us know what you think!

ISSUE 7 - WINTER 2017Issued Quarterly

CONTENTS


Successful British IFCS agility team benefit from Back on Track

TWO of the Back on Track British team took medals home from the 2016 IFCS Agility World Championships in

Holland. High performance clothing company, Back on Track sponsored the team with t-shirts for the handlers and rugs for the dogs made from their revolutionary Welltex™ fabric.

Lauren Langman from the West Country and her border collie Tiki took the individual silver medal in Individual Agility and Sarah Mclean Kita took the bronze in the Biathalon event. The team also achieved many other high placings.

Back on Track were delighted to sponsor the team. Their products help to support well-being and mobility in dogs, humans and horses. The Back on Track garments are ideal for agility dogs and each British team dog in Holland wore a Back on Track rug to help keep their muscles on top form. Team member Sam Davies said: “The

dogs wore their rugs at all times during the day when not competing. The weather was very cold at the competition and it was hard to warm the dogs up properly so the rugs helped keep the dogs warm between the warmup routine and their competition class”.

All the beautifully made items in the Back on track range are lined with state-of-the-art Welltex™ fabric. Drawing on ancient Chinese technology, the Welltex fabric is infused with tiny ceramic particles

which reflect long-wave, infra-red heat back to the wearer’s body. When a dog wears a Back on Track rug, his entire body benefits from this effect of the Welltex fabric.

The benefits of infra-red technology are widely recognised, supporting circulation which can ease stiffness and support mobility at all levels of activity, but is particularly helpful when dogs, or horses, are expected to perform at a competitive level.

The Back on Track rugs fit very snugly around the dog and are fully breathable and available in a range of weights. They come with simple hook and loop closures, fully elasticated leg straps and a range of reflectors to help the dog stay visible at night-time.

All the handlers in the British team at the IFCS Championship were provided with Back on Track t-shirts made from the Welltex fabric for the event ensuring that they too could benefit from the ‘Back on Track effect’.

Sam Davies continued: “These products have helped the team immensely, keeping the handlers and dogs warmed up ready to compete therefore helping to prevent injury along with helping speed up the healing of any current injuries”.

Many top sports people have turned to Back on Track to help keep both them and their animals performing at the top of their game.

For further details please visit www.backontrack.com

BACK ON TRACK


Want to work with Animals?

Animal Jobs Direct is a recognised and accredited training provider offering affordable courses to enhance career and employment prospects working with animals.

We have recently developed 3 new courses specifically designed for careers working in the Animal Therapy sector:

Animal Hydrotherapy Diploma CourseThe ABC Awards Level 3 Diploma in animal hydrotherapy has been developed for careers working as an Animal Hydrotherapist or in a Veterinary career utilising hydrotherapy as a treatment. The course includes theory and practical training and completion results in a regulated and recognised qualification.

Canine First Aid CourseThe AIM Awards Level 2 Award in Skills for Emergency Care for Dogs (RQF) is a regulated qualification providing theory and practical training aimed at learners who wish to or who are working in the dog care sector.

Canine Massage Diploma CourseThe Canine Massage Diploma Level 3 course covers Canine Anatomy and Physiology, causes and treatments of injuries and conditions, types of massage and massage techniques.

Contact us for free careers and training advice

Tel: 0208 626 9646www.animal-job.co.uk

Learn more at www.backontrack.comVisit our website to download brochure, or contact Georgia on 07766 463099 or at [email protected]

®Back on Track’s own unique Welltex fabric works by reflecting the body’s infrared heat due to the infused ceramic particles in the textile, helping to support circulation and ease muscle tension. As used by the IFCS GB Dog Agility Team.

ATM-Feb_190x134_BOT

14 January 2017 12:23:57


VET Festival has announced its 2017 conference programme, which now comprises of

over 100 lectures of world-class CPD, covering 10 streams by over 30 international speakers. This unique outdoor CPD event continues to challenge how CPD is delivered with each and every lecture and speaker carefully considered to be relevant for every member of veterinary practice.

Still only in its third year, VET Festival has listened intently to delegate feedback and as a result, 2017 promises world-class CPD delivery, huge diversity in lecture subjects and stronger interaction and engagement. Designed by vets for vets, the conference theme for VET Festival 2017 is Wellness to reenergise and rekindle the passion in veterinary professionals in response

to increasing levels of dissatisfaction and concern in the industry. In support of this announcement Founder, Professor Noel Fitzpatrick

adds: “VET Festival is a veterinary education event which is intended to synchronise the feelings of joy we experience at a music festival with

the academic punch of the best conferences and symposia.

The speakers are asked by me personally to take part and I consider them to be among the best in the world for delivery of subject material of direct relevance to primary care small animal veterinary practice in the UK and beyond. We have listened to what the delegates say they really want to hear about. Each

and every speaker is deeply passionate about sharing their knowledge with fellow professionals for the greater good of all. The information shared will be totally unique to this festival and I’m proud to stand beside them to forge a new platform for veterinary education which is directly applicable to everyday practice life, is innovative and can’t be sourced in books on online, and is delivered in a fresh interesting way that brings real joy and fulfilment. We have a breadth of speakers, subjects and talent like never before.

A central core theme for this year is ‘Wellness’ – for the animals of course – but also for those of us looking after them. Our vocation can be stressful and extraordinarily demanding. We selflessly

give of ourselves, we worry and we take failure very personally. We often have the weight of the world on

Outstanding CPD assured as dynamic programme announced for VET Festival 2017

10% OFFfor readers of

Animal Therapy

Magazine

see back page

for details

Find out more and book your placewww.vetfestival.co.uk


“Came out of lectures buzzing about new things to do and try, not felt like

that for ages”

“A beautiful escape for real life CPD, you feel refreshed while your mind is nourished. A holistic CPD for the vet team”

“Love it. And may the sun shine on VET Festival 2017”

“Refreshingly different”

“A vibrant, informative up-to-date learning event. The lectures with video examples of non-invasive surgery

were fascinating”

“More appealing than being indoors in

a lecture hall”

“The fusion of passion for medical change,

unconditional love and hope in one field”

“International CPD with a home feel”

“A nice change from formal CPD events, good

fun and very educational”

“Good quality CPD for general practice”




that for ages”





were fascinating”


a lecture hall”










that for ages”





were fascinating”


a lecture hall”










that for ages”





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a lecture hall”








our shoulders and sometimes our daily lives do not match up to our expectations when we came into the profession and we get disenchanted. So this year, VET Festival will try to bring a sense of wellness and fulfilment at a core level, emotionally and mentally to delegates. It’s no coincidence that Saturday 10th June is also ‘Global Wellness Day’ and we greatly look forward to bringing new understanding and perspective to this vital and deeply emotive subject.

We are independent and this event will help support The Humanimal Trust charity which aims to give all animals a fair deal by promoting the concept that One Medicine should inform both animal and human clinical practice at the same time.

It’s extremely important to me that VET Festival really is Veterinary Education for Tomorrow with direct applicability from today. There is quite literally something for every veterinary

professional to take home and apply the following day. I guarantee you will leave the festival field more energised, more empowered, buzzing with ideas and with new knowledge and a renewed passion for our amazing

profession. I look forward to seeing you there.”

Centaur Services are the Official Partner for VET Festival 2017, and

sponsor the brand new Wellness & Team Building stream. Professor Noel Fitzpatrick continues: “I am delighted that Centaur Services have once again agreed to be a key partner for VET Festival 2017. This is a real and tangible endorsement of the power of this new style CPD veterinary conference and the belief we all have in it. It’s also particularly pleasing to have on board such a committed and supportive sponsor partner, and we are united in our desire to deliver exemplary a unique learning, sharing and networking experience.”

Highlights of the VET Festival 2017

Rehabilitation Stream include:

Fiona DoubledayHead of Rehabilitation Service at

Fitzpatrick Referrals, will be lecturing on ‘Functional rehabilitation and

core stability for the canine.’

Dr Lowri DaviesPresident of the British Veterinary

Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Association & Founder of SMART Clinic,

will be presenting two lectures on ‘When the drugs stop working: can rehabilitation be the answer?’ and ‘Where did I go wrong? Common pitfalls and how to avoid them.’ In the Nursing stream, Lowri will also

be lecturing on ‘Post-operative rehabilitation: How can I make a

difference?’

Dr Felix DuerrSmall Animal Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine at Colorado State University USA, will be presenting three lectures on ‘Injury and arthritis prevention in

the canine athlete’, ‘Tricky performance dog injuries: Would you have made the diagnosis?’ and ‘The rehab advantage: How to capture clients and help pets

by using your knowledge!’




that for ages”





were fascinating”


a lecture hall”







Centaur Services Managing Director, Brian Topper comments

“The whole team here are thrilled to be partnering with VET Festival

again. Our experience in 2016 was of a truly innovative event.

We were able to have really high-quality conversations with key practice owners in a relaxed environment. The combination of world-class CPD and networking in a festival atmosphere was fantastic. The industry needs this kind of creativity and we are proud to be part of it.”




that for ages”





were fascinating”


a lecture hall”








by Cathy Smith, Director of Westcoast Hydrotherapy Ltd

WESTCOAST

Hydrotherapy for Dogs Where it all started, from fun to therapy

THE concept of hydrotherapy for dogs was conceived by Brad and Cathy Smith when one of their greyhounds fell lame and they discovered that the dog improved greatly from swimming in the

North Sea off the North Norfolk coast. Brad and Cathy quickly realised that this improvement could be accelerated by swimming in warm water – hence the first Westcoast hydrotherapy pool was produced in 1988.

The initial pools were round pools made of fibreglass and several were sold in the UK and Ireland, mainly to the greyhound fraternity. Brad then developed an allergy to fibreglass forcing him to look for an alternative material for the pool production.

Westcoast then developed the Compact hydrotherapy pool, made from polypropylene, rectangular in shape, with adjustable anti swim jets and containing the pumps, filters etc within the outer casing of the pool, resulting in a very simple installation process. In conjunction with the pool development Westcoast also sourced and developed accessories such as the overhead hoists and specially designed slings for safely lifting larger dogs into the pool. Breeders of large and giant breeds found the improved muscle tone and general physical improvement resulted in success in the show ring. Many boarding kennels had pools installed providing fun and fitness swims for their existing customer’s pets.

The development of the Westcoast Compact pools has broadened the client base from the Greyhound fraternity to Veterinary establishments, kennels, grooming parlours, animal rescue, Colleges, Universities etc. Westcoast have installed hundreds of pools and under water treadmills in the UK, Europe, the USA and beyond.

In 2006 Westcoast took Animal Hydrotherapy pool design one step further and designed a specific one piece composite moulded pool that has built in ramps and different height resting platforms for all sizes of dogs. Packaged as a bundle that includes everything you need to manage the pool it has become a favourite with Westcoast customers.

Next came the Water Walker, under water treadmill, this revolutionised hydrotherapy for the Veterinary Industry in 2001, being able to provide Hydrotherapy treatments in house opened up many opportunities for the veterinary industry to improve the success rates from many surgical procedures and be in control of the treatment programs.The Water Walker Mk1 was the very first in Europe creating considerable interest from many facets of the animal world. The very first Water Walker was launched at Crufts Dog

Below left: 1988 The first Westcoast pool. Below right: Sussex Canine Centre Above: Fibreglass pool with cover.


Show that year and later installed in Somerset. This being Europe’s first underwater treadmill for dogs it was computer controlled and could be run at speeds from 0.5mph to 8mph, with a soft stop and start, and quickly and accurately be filled with water to whatever depth is required. The tank body treadmill manifold bearings and shafts are of stainless steel with a viewing screen of toughened glass on one or both sides. The water walker solved the problem of progressing a recovering dog from a totally non weight bearing environment in the hydrotherapy pool to land based exercise which is 100% weight bearing. In the water walker the dog learns to walk again whilst supported by the water which also assists in providing balance through bouyancy.

The Water Walker Mk2 was launched in 2004 and is the underwater treadmill most commonly associated with Westcoast, it was sold in large numbers worldwide and was available in both a single and double door. It is a testimony to the engineering and high quality materials used in producing the Mk2 that these units are all still in daily use with minimal maintenance except for a five year mechanical service to the conveyor parts.

However, time waits for no-one and the treatment protocols that were being developed over time required a different approach to the design of the underwater treadmill.

Westcoast took the feedback from our existing customers and in 2016 developed the new Water Walker v3, it has all the pedigree of the Mk1 and Mk2 Water Walkers, but with a sleek new look. The entire unit is very close to the ground meaning that a ramp is not really necessary except to cover the pipes delivering the water. The low glass viewing panels provide an uninterrupted view of even the smallest of patient’s paws. The gentle slow speed start and stop help new patients to adapt to the treatment quickly and the efficient plant keeps the water clean and safe and warm for each patient throughout the day. The Water Walker v3 is available in standard and extended length and in almost any colour you wish, to blend with your corporate colour scheme. Westcoast offer a part exchange service and can accept your old Water Walker Mk1 or Mk2 as part exchange for a new Water Walker v3.

The first ever seminar on Hydrotherapy was organised by Westcoast in February 2001. The aim was to provide a networking opportunity for this “New Breed” of therapist to share ideas and develop protocols etc. Now in 2017, there are many training courses available all over the world and associations and groups for Hydrotherapists to belong to. Westcoast have been able to concentrate on the development of new improved products. Because Westcoast only design and manufacture Hydrotherapy equipment, we are able to provide focused outstanding support to both new and existing customers. www.westcoasthydrotherapy.co.uk

Above left: Husky on pool ramp. Above right: Water Walker

Visit our website: www.westcoasthydrotherapy.co.uk

Since 1988 Westcoast have been the pioneers of hydrotherapy for animal’s!


Since 1988 Westcoast have been

The lowest Under Water Treadmill with the largest viewing windows in any colour

WestC_91mmx135mm.indd 2 01/04/2016 14:55






WestC_91mmx135mm.indd 2 01/04/2016 14:55






WestC_91mmx135mm.indd 2 01/04/2016 14:55

Finance Available for New & Existing Businesses


A rewarding stretch

by Kelly McCarthy-Maine

PHYSIOTHERAPY FOR PERFORMANCE

PHYSIOTHERAPIST Megan King is part of the horse health team that supports Canadian Olympic event rider, Rebecca Howard, her long-time partner, Riddle Master, as well as an

exciting string of up and coming event horses at her Wiltshire training base.

“I visit Rebecca’s yard weekly and in addition to regular treatments, have helped the team of grooms and working pupils integrate a program of baited stretches into their daily routine”, Megan explains.

These baited stretches are a series of dynamic exercises that encourage physiological mobilisation of the joints and a strengthening of the muscles, using the active movement of the body. Baited stretching exercises will help to strengthen

Physiotherapist Megan King works with Olympic

rider, Rebecca Howard and her home team to

demonstrate how baited stretches can help the horses stay strong and supple between visits

and condition your horse, especially the postural muscles; multifidus and abdominals, if performed regularly and correctly.

“By performing regular stretching exercises, the horses are getting a form of physical therapy every day in addition to their training and conditioning and the girls on the yard have another yardstick to monitor their general health and well-being”, Megan continues.

Rebecca recognises the contribution a regular program of stretching adds to her ridden training and conditioning regime. “It’s really nice to have the horses work on mobility, flexibility and access areas of weakness without the influence of a rider on their back. It’s also really interesting to see how any lack of mobility in stretching correlates to weaknesses in


their ridden work. Anything we can do to make the horses stronger, more comfortable and more flexible is worth doing”, Rebecca explains.

“I can feel the horses improve with a regular stretching program - and for the horses, stretching is part of a game they play to get tasty treats, so motivation is high”, Rebecca continues.

Danielle Searson moved from the USA to England to take advantage of a working pupil placement to gain experience working in a professional environment with elite event horses - working closely with a physiotherapist and learning to do baited stretches is just one area of development for Danielle.

“From the first time Megan showed us how to do the stretches with the horses I was hooked - I thought it was a really interesting, low-impact way to help strengthen the horses and get them moving without adding any further stress on their legs, joints or body”, Danielle continues.

“I really enjoy seeing how each of the horses react as individuals to the stretching. It’s a chance to learn more about their character and how they approach physical challenges. The horses also enjoy the stretches as a little game to play during the day and it is a nice, constructive way for me to give them extra treats”, explains Danielle.

“Regular stretching can also play a role in injury prevention as you are not only strengthening the muscles that support the horse in his athletic activities, you have an independent mechanism for assessing how he is responding to his training and conditioning program”, explains Megan.

Why stretch?Stretching is a form of exercise where a specific muscle or group of muscles is lengthened to improve suppleness and flexibility and gradually increase range of movement. It can also help improve gymnastic ability, increase length of stride and reduce tension or tightness in your horse’s muscles.

Baited stretches can help horses to develop their proprioception, too. This is essentially the interpretation of messages sent between the brain, body and limbs, providing feedback on position and movement of the body. Stretches are also mentally stimulating – a bit of playtime with your horse in which he gets rewarded for doing simple exercises he can understand and enjoy.

Over-excited for carrots The physical benefits of baited stretches are undeniable, but some horses can become over-enthusiastic for the reward component of the stretching exercise and start to display unwanted behaviours, namely nipping or ‘mugging’ handlers for treats.

If your horse is over-excited about the treat, he may become impatient and frustrated if he has to wait or hold the stretch and the benefit can be lost, especially if he bites at your fingers!

Some people find handheld, specially formulated licks convenient because they come in little pots with lids, last a long time and are easily stored. For many yards and owners, licks can be easier to manage than a consistent supply of fresh carrots.

“With many horses I find I have a greater degree of control using a lick for stretching than I do using carrots. With carrots horses tend to ‘launch’ themselves toward the end of the stretch, snatch the carrot and move quickly out of the stretch; with licks I can guide the horses through the stretch and encourage them deeper into the stretch as they continue to reach for the lick”, explains Megan.

All horses are different Horses vary in their range and ability to perform stretches. Often young horses have a larger range of movement but lack the strength that elite horses may have developed through their training. Stretches can help most horses improve their strength and flexibility over time. Go slowly, approach stretching as a game and reward the horse for exploring his own range of movement.

Rupert will stretch for carrots or licks

Five tips for happy, healthy baited stretches

1. Make baited stretches part of your regular routine so

your horse knows when - and when not - to expect

his rewards.

2. Stretch horses when they are warm, after exercise, the

horse walker or following time under a solarium

3. Make sure your horse is standing square on a level,

non-slip surface. Hold the lead rope in your hand in a

way that allows the horse to move freely. Don’t ‘force’

them into the stretch.

4. Watch out for cheating! Better to reward for less range

of movement but with correct technique. With correct

technique, your horse will improve.

5. Work with your physiotherapist on a custom program

of stretches to target and develop your individual

horse

continued overleaf


Stretching can become part of an untacking routine


Six simple stretches for sport horses

These stretches can be done daily as a progressive series, each stretch being repeated three times and held for five seconds. When handler and horse become skilled at baited stretches, the routine takes about three minutes.

Stretches should be done on a secure, non-slip surface in a safe area as part of a regular routine - many yards choose to incorporate stretches into the un-tacking routine. Handlers need to wear secure footwear and be aware of the horse at all times to carefully monitor his balance.

“Dynamic mobilisation exercises or baited stretches are therapy techniques frequently used by veterinary physiotherapists to strengthen the local muscles of the spine, improve joint mobility and relieve pain. Baited stretches are used in clinical practice both as an assessment and treatment technique” Megan explains.

“These stretches can be defined as ‘voluntary movements of the horses cervical and thoracolumbar intervertebral joints through a wide range of motion with the primary objectives of activating and strengthening the muscles that move and stabilise the intervertebral joints’ (Oliveira et al., 2015, p.889).

Performing regular baited stretches can produce hypertrophy of the muscle Multifidus and increase its size and cross sectional area which theoretically improves spinal stability (Tabor., 2014).

Multifidus being one of the key stabilising muscles of the spine, it has been evidenced that atrophy of this muscle can cause pain and dysfunction in the thoracolumbar and lumbosacral regions in the human population (Stubbs et al., 2006). Stablisation of the thoracolumbar intervertebral joints is important for the transmission of propulsion created by the hind limbs of the horse during locomotion.

1. CHIN TO CHEST

What it targets: The upper cervical spine and neck musculature

How it can help: This stretch can help horses improve suppleness and range of movement in the poll region

Good technique: Horses may not be able to reach their chin to their chest at first - reward good technique and accept less range of movement as they build strength, flexibility and confidence in the stretch

TOP TIP

Encourage the horse to keep their head straight - no head tilting allowed!

4. CHIN TO GIRTH

What it targets: This is the first of the lateral stretches in the series, which encourages a stretch of the muscles and an opening of the facet joints on the ‘outside’ of the neck and a strengthening of the muscles on the ‘inside’ of the neck.

How it can help: This stretch helps to strengthen and stretch the chain of muscles and structures that are engaged when the horse is working with flexion. Eventually, strength and stretching allows the horse to be more supple in his work.

TOP TIPS

Be careful not to stand in the way as you stretch the horse - you do not want to block or limit his stretch.

You are aiming for the ears to remain vertical to the floor - the horse will naturally try and turn their head, which lessens the benefit of the stretch.


continued overleaf

2. CHIN TO KNEES

What it targets: Cervical and thoracic spine, postural muscles of the back and abdominals

How it can help: This stretch can help horses improve their core strength and their ability to lift and engage their back

Good technique: Encourage the horse to stay straight in the stretch and watch out for the horse ‘cheating’ by bending their knees. If they bend their knees, lessen the depth of the stretch.

TOP TIP

Horses seem to enjoy this stretch as it targets large muscle groups. Most horses are able to reach their knees without cheating.

6. CHIN TO HOCK

What it targets: This stretch is a progression from the chin to hip stretch and encourages an even greater range of movement through the back and shoulder and requires a combination of spinal side flexion and rotation.

How it can help: This stretch is a great way to strengthen and challenge your horse as the demands of his training increase.

in normal locomotion, side flexion is accompanied by an element of rotation of the spine. As the activities and training become more demanding - for example during canter pirouettes or landing and turning from a fence - strength and flexibility become even more crucial.

TOP TIPS

The transference of weight during this stretch means it is very important that the horse starts this exercise standing square.

Go into this stretch slowly and with control to allow the horse to adjust his balance as his weight transfers across his body.

5. CHIN TO HIP

What it targets: stretching of longitudinal muscles, mobilisation of cervical and thoracic vertebrae and engagement of abdominals.

How it can help: This stretch will help horse develop the strength required for lateral work under saddle and allow him to become more soft and flexible around your leg.

TOP TIPS

Most horses perform this stretch quite well, but not all of them can reach the point of hip. Aim towards the point of hip, allow the horse to explore their own range and reward them for effort and good technique. Make sure they hold the stretch at their end of range.

3. CHIN TO FETLOCK

What it targets: Progression of the chin to knees stretch, allows for a deeper stretch over their back to their poll

How it can help: This is a nice longitudinal stretch for the horse’s back muscles - helps relieve tightness and build strength in the postural muscles

Good technique: It is important to start this stretch with the horse standing square and watch for cheating, like knee bending.

TOP TIP

Not all horses will be able to reach through their fetlocks - allow the horse freedom to explore his range and reward him for his efforts within a depth of stretch that is comfortable for him.


Heros Chin de Litrange, ‘Hero’ Ten-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding Hero was a showjumping stallion who combined stud duties with an impressive young-horse competition career. Introduced to eventing as a seven-year-old, Hero is a naturally balanced, brave and elastic athlete who approaches his work with enthusiasm. Hero will be campaigned in 2017 with the aim of continued improvement in the dressage phase and to qualify for 3* level in eventing.

Rebecca Howard - RiderRebecca Howard is a UK-based Canadian high performance event rider with results at Luhmulen, Badminton, Burghley and Kentucky and has double-Olympic, Pan-American and World Equestrian Games experience. Rebecca’s top ten finish at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio made her the highest placed female eventer at the games.

Riddle Master, ‘Rupert’2013 Canadian-bred horse of the year, Blithe Hill Farm’s Canadian Sport Horse, Riddle Master, ‘Rupert’ came to Rebecca as talented and unruly six-year-old. Nearly a decade later, Rupert is a polished athlete at the top of the sport with fans all over the world.

Megan King - Physiotherapist Megan qualified as a human physiotherapist in Western Australia before moving the to the United Kingdom to gain her Masters in Veterinary Physiotherapy and join the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy (ACPAT). Megan has worked with elite event riders, including Lucinda and Clayton Fredericks and Rebecca Howard, as well the elite horses on Australian, Canadian and Japanese teams. Megan has a keen interest in the relationship between rider and sport horse performance, as well as injury rehabilitation.

Danielle Searson - Working pupil Working pupil Danielle Searson holds a Bachelors of Science in Biology from the University of Maryland, USA. During university, Danielle shadowed several equine vets for two summers before deciding against veterinary school in favor of developing her career in the horse industry. Danielle began riding horses at five years old, dabbling in equitation and show jumping before settling on eventing as a teenager. A desire to gain experience with elite horses and riders led her to move to England and to take a position as a working student for Rebecca at the start of the 2016 UK eventing season. Danielle events her nine-year-old Irish Sports Horse, No Comparison, ‘Goose’.

REFERENCES:Oliveira. K., Soutello. R. V. G., Fonseca. R., Costa. C., Meirelles. P. R. L., Fachiolli. D. F. and Clayton. H. M. (2015) Gymnastic training and dynamic mobilisation exercises improve stride quality and increase epaxial muscle size in therapy horses. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 35, pp.888-893.

Stubbs. N. C., Hodges. P. W., Jeffcott. L. B., Cowin. G., Hodgson. D. R. and McGowan. C. M. (2006) Functional anatomy of the caudal thoracolumbar and lumbosacral spine in the horse. Equine Exercise Physiology. 36, pp.393-399.

Tabor. G. (2014) The effect of dynamic mobilisation exercises on the equine multifidus muscle and thoracic profile. Research Masters Plymouth University. pp.1-101.


Horse Health Team

With thanks to:

Rebecca Howard Equestrian rebeccahowardequestrian.com

Megan King Physiotherapy megankingphysiotherapy.com

Photos: Bob Atkins and Camilla Caplin camillacaplinphotography.com

Next issue: Join Megan as she works with massage therapist and kinesiology tape practitioner Harriett Freeman to support the event horses in training, travel and therapy


LAST YEAR, StreamZ were introduced to WAO England Team Manager and owner of QED Dog Agility, Bridgitte

Wyre. Bridgitte has been teaching dog agility for more than 20 years working with the full range of dogs, from puppies learning basic body awareness, to top level and international competition level dogs.

One of Bridgitte’s retired agility dogs, Della, had been having a tough few years. As a rescued crossbreed, Della achieved much as a young agility dog reaching Grade 7 at the age of 4. However, she suffered a major injury, completely rupturing a cruciate ligament, straining the lateral ligaments and flipping the meniscus in her knee joint. Following surgeryand extensive rehabilitation, she miraculously returned to competition

and went on to win the ABC final at Crufts and get two silver medals as part of Team England at WAO in Spain in 2013. In 2014 she also helped Team England win silver again in Italy. She retired from agility in November 2014 at the age of 10 - a true champion.

Since her retirement, Della has maintained her active lifestyle with plenty of walks and regular hydrotherapy. In the summer of 2106, however, Bridgitte noticed that Della was beginning to show signs of stiffness, more in her back, but the arthritis in her previously injured knee was also evident.

So, how could a Streamz collar help?

“StreamZ let me have a DOG StreamZ collar for her, and whilst she will never

return to agility we want the very best quality of life for her. At the time she starting to wear the collar she was also suffering from a chronic allergy causing discomfort and substantial hair loss. We were not expecting much from the collars but had heard of great results. Since wearing the StreamZ collar her allergy disappeared and her coat regrew! She is doing really well, is showing no signs of stiffness and is still happily going for long walks with the rest of the family. Several of our other dogs have subsequently benefitted from the StreamZ technology including pain relief and reducing behavioural issues. Simply amazing considering no medication is required.”

StreamZ smart collars continue to create significant impact within the dog agility community; as recent acknowledgements prove with the sponsorship and partnerships ofStreamZ with Team GB IFCS Squad and Teams England, Scotland and Wales.

StreamZ offer competitors in the agility community the ability to help support recovery and promote general wellbeing with their current competing dogs, and to help with degenerative and general ageing issues experienced by their retired dogs. The unique technology within StreamZ creates no pulse (like traditional magnets do) leading to no increase in local heat and the ability to wear the collar 24 hours a day.

If your dog is showing signs of ageing or competes regularly within the agility world, then StreamZ is a product for you: 100% natural, results endorsed by the very best and a company who support our national teams to compete at the highest level.

Supporting our nation’s favourites

STREAMZ

Bridgitte and Della

continued overleaf


CASE STUDIES

Kez is a 12½ year old ex-working GSD. She has severe elbow arthritis, and has recently been diagnosed with Vestibular Disease following a number of small strokes. This resulted in almost total loss of balance, greatly affecting her quality of life. Within a couple of hours of wearing a StreamZ collar Kez was back on her feet, relatively well balanced, and dramatically happier- even jumping up on the sofa. Shortly afterwards she was bounding up and down the road, and now goes on walks that we never thought she’d be able to do again. Blix is very large 5 year old retired working GSD that has undergone serious decompressive surgery on his spine. Whilst the operation was successful Blix does have occasional pain and difficulty with certain movements such as jumping in a car and taking the weight back onto his haunches. After using the StreamZ collar, Blix rarely showed any signs of pain, and began jumping up on his back legs, which he had not done since the age of 3. All pain medication stopped with no negative results. Beau is a 10 year old Basset Hound with a long history of joint and spine issues, along with arthritis. Following major surgery to pin and cement a vertebrae, a StreamZ collar was used in the post-recovery stage and once increased exercise had been approved by the vet and physiotherapist. Beau demonstrated increased energy and activity, even jumping on and off the sofa. He wanted to engage more with other dogs, and now enjoys the same long walks as his younger canine companions.

STREAMZ


HOW horses are kept in the modern equine industry is very different to the environment they have

evolved to live in. My interest in the physical and psychological effects of domestication on the horse was the main motivator behind this study I conducted in 2014, and linking it to musculoskeletal wellbeing and McTimoney led me to one of the main aspects of modern management; how we feed our horses.

The McTimoney treatment involves identifying areas of vertebral dysfunction, usually indicated by the positioning of the spinous processes relative to those adjacent in the spinal column. Cervical vertebrae (in the neck) move to allow dorso-ventral flexion-extension so the horse can lift his head up or lower it down. These vertebrae also allow lateral bending so the horse can bring his head round towards his shoulder, and these vertebrae

rotate around their centre point, (think of the horse shaking his head sideways if irritated by a fly). Different vertebrae have different ranges of these movements, but all cervical vertebrae can be assessed for a dorso-lateral position relative to those adjacent. Treatment then focusses on gentle adjustments to correct those vertebrae found to be in a dorso-lateral position, so these vertebrae can return to the correct position. Normal functionality of the neck vertebrae is then restored.

Horses have evolved as trickle feeders; eating small amounts over an extended period spending on average

16 hours a day grazing in the wild. The development of the hay

net was a result of the need to feed forage whilst reducing the amount of waste. My mare is a prime example of a horse that stuffs her face but deems

anything that falls on the floor as subpar and therefore

inedible. Typically, haynets are placed high up, and depending on

the speed with which the individual eats hay or haylage the hole size varies widely. Horses generally display the same pattern of movements when eating from a net; a repeated pulling motion, either laterally or dorsally with the spine in a hollow or extended position which is very different to the position they graze in. From a therapy point of view this opens a wealth of questions about how this change of head and neck position influences temporomandibular joint function and cervical joint motion and what effects it could be having further down the spine. Feeding from the floor is often recommended but there is a very little scientific data on how feeding position affects the physical health of the horse.

This was a preliminary study, performed on 13 horses of mixed breed, sex and age. Those involved had all been seen by a vet or equine dental technician within 6 months, and were under 20 years old. They were fed on the same hay and the majority were what is classed within the industry as “leisure horses”, meaning that none were on a restricted forage diet due to the demands of their work level. This similar level of work meant there was less risk of the influence of work on the vertebral alignment interfering with the feeding method. The horses were fed their usual hay ration in 3 different ways; from a haynet, a Hay Bar and from the floor. Prior to entering the first condition horses were given a full McTimoney treatment, and were given a further treatment prior to entering the subsequent condition at the end of the 14 day period. The cervical vertebrae positioning (dorso-lateral to the left or right relative to the position of previous and subsequent vertebrae) and any soft tissue tension were noted following each condition to gain an impression on how the body reacted

The effect of foraging position on neck vertebral position

By Eulalia Speaight, McTimoney Animal Practitioner

McTIMONEY


to the condition the horse had been in. The horses were split into groups, with each group experiencing the different conditions at different times for example Group 1 were fed from the floor as Group 2 were fed from the hay net.

Once the data had been analysed there was no significant correlation between feeding method and specific dorso-lateral positions of the cervical vertebrae. However, the results did show that soft tissue tension did differ in response to being fed from the different sources. Feeding from the floor showed the lowest frequency of soft tissue tension whilst feeding from a haynet created the highest frequency of soft tissue tension particularly in the neck, shoulder and poll. The Hay Bar produced soft tissue tension in different areas to a reduced degree compared to the Hay net, particularly in the neck and the therapists involved noted that this tension all seemed to be focused on the base of the neck rather than at the poll and mid-

cervical region as found in the haynet condition. Whilst the data regarding the vertebral cervical positions in this study was not considered significant, the frequency of cervical vertebrae positioning dorso-lateral to left or right was lowest following the floor and Hay Bar conditions compared with the haynet condition.

So, what do these results mean in practise? In regards to rehabilitation and musculoskeletal health, haynets cause the highest frequency of cervical vertebral dorso-lateral positioning and soft tissue tension, meaning if the horse is experiencing issues in the poll and neck it may result in a more efficient, long term rehabilitation if fed from a different source. The Haybar produced a lower frequency of both compared to the haynet, however the tension at the base of the neck and shoulders may mean that for some horses it does not aid the rehabilitation process. For me as a therapist, I have found that feeding from the floor for a couple of days following treatment

does improve the future frequency of misalignment and tension in the cervical spine with potential benefits for temporomandibular mobility as well.

Equine Dental Technicians recommend feeding from the floor as it places the jaw in the correct position for the circular chewing motion, so it’s possible that feeding lower down decreases the strain on the TMJ and therefore in the poll and proximal cervical spine. More study is required in this field to gain a more comprehensive idea of how head and neck position during feeding influence musculoskeletal health, but given that previous study in back kinematics in the ridden and unridden horse has shown that an extended spine seen in a high, fixed position can lead to limited thoracic intervertebral space and potential impingement it could be inferred that feeding in a way which necessitates this position for a prolonged period might also be harmful to long term spine health.


Is your dog vaccinated, or immunised?

ANNA WEBB

VACCINATION is one of the most notable modern medical advances: it’s also one of the most common procedures

undertaken in both cats and dogs.

There is no question of its importance in preventing and controlling infectious diseases. I’ve visited India three times and hated seeing so many poorly looking ‘street’ dogs and cats ravaged by disease and mal-nutrition.

The key principle at the College of Integrated Veterinary Therapies is to minimise the ‘toxin’ load in our pets (and people). Sadly toxins are ubiquitous in our modern environment. We absorb them daily from polluted air, polluted food and water sources. Even our home is full of possible health stressors like PBDE’s – flame retardant chemicals. Over use of flea treatments and chemical sprays, wormers, over medication and over vaccination are also considered as

‘toxic stressors’ that can pose a risk to the health of your pet.

A vaccine is a biological preparation of either modified live or killed pathogens (viruses, bacteria or parasites) that is introduced into the body in order to promote immunity to a particular disease (Dodds 2001;Tizard &Ni; Twark & Dodds, 2000).

If the basic principle in ‘holistic’ healthcare is to keep the toxin load down, this begs the question: Do we have to vaccinate every year?

Despite not being ‘mandatory’, unlike ‘rabies’ vaccination in certain parts of the world, vaccination of the ‘core’ diseases is necessary. Vaccination has undoubtedly saved more animals lives than any other medical advance. It has significantly reduced canine distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus as well as practically eliminating rabies in Europe. As the UK is rabies free, the

only time we need to vaccinate against rabies is when travelling abroad under the PETS passport scheme.

Core vaccines protect animals from severe, life-threatening diseases that have global distribution. Core vaccines for dogs are those that protect against canine distemper virus (CDV), canine adenovirus (CAV) and the variants of canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2). Core vaccines for cats are those that protect against feline parvovirus (FPV), feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1).

Professor Ron Schultz, Immunologist and Pathologist, has been studying the effectiveness of canine vaccines since the 1970’s. Every year he checks the antibody levels in his dogs’ blood. Why? He says “for proof that most annual vaccines are unnecessary”.

Based on his findings, over the years, a community of canine vaccine experts has developed new veterinary recommendations that use Titre Tests, or serological antibody tests to prove a dog and cats immunity to the core vaccines.

As a ‘voice’ to the global veterinary community, The World Small Animal Veterinary Association’s (WSAVA) Vaccination Guidelines Group (VGG) has re-issued and revised its recommended vaccination guidelines for dogs and cats since its first edition in 2007.

In The WSAVA VGG latest guidelines, issued in 2015, it has clearly addressed Duration of Immunity (DOI). It embraces the scientific, evidence based studies, including Shultz, Dodds 2001 & Tizard 1998, Twark & Dodds 2000 that prove DOI of the core vaccines can

by Anna Webb Broadcaster, Author, Trainer has studied natural nutrition and therapies with the College of Integrated Veterinary Therapies (CIVT)


Above: Ron Schultz with VacciCheck. Opposite: Anna Webb with Prudence


continued overleaf

last for the lifetime of the animal after their initial puppy/kitten shots: at the very minimum for three years.

A Titre Test is a simple blood test that looks for serological antibodies of the core diseases. The presence of these antibodies proves that the animal is immune. (Tizard & Ni,1998 & Dodds 2000).

The VGG endorses the use of simple in-practice Titre Tests to determine such ‘sero-conversion’ to the core vaccine components (CDV, CAV, CPV-2 in dogs and FPV in cats) following initial vaccination.

The VGG recognises that Titre / serological testing might be relatively expensive, but agree that the principles of ‘evidence- based veterinary medicine’ suggest that testing for antibody status (for either puppies or adult dogs) should be better practice than simply administering a vaccine booster on the basis that this would be ‘safe and cost less’.

I was introduced to Titre Testing in 2008 when Molly, my Miniature Bull Terrier (aged six), was ‘titred’ revealing her serological antibodies for the core diseases to all be sufficiently high. She did not require a booster to ‘revaccinate’ as she was proved to be immune already.

Interestingly Molly had only had her puppy shots at eight and 12 weeks, with no subsequent boosters in six years, she received a high Titre result for all three-core diseases. Clearly highlighting that DOI can last for more than three years, if not a lifetime.

At Hyde Park Vets in London Titre Testing is offered to provide an alternative to routine ‘boosters. This is greatly appreciated by owners who have concerns about vaccination frequency. Many parents wouldn’t consider vaccinating their children annually for measles or the mumps, so offering Titre Testings acts as a ‘practice builder’. Why would you do something if you didn’t need to?

Dr. Jean Dodds DVM is very well-known for her minimum vaccine protocols and is Co-Trustee of The Rabies Challenge Fund. She has studied canine vaccines for over 40 years, with many papers published on the subject. She recognizes a syndrome known to holistic vets as ‘Vaccinois’ (reactions and side effects of vaccines).

Dr Jean Dodds DVM commented: “Those in the animal healthcare field now have a duty to re-examine and improve vaccine protocols for the

health and safety of their

patients. This is especially true for animals with compromised immune systems, since vaccines represent one more stressor that could prove to be the tipping point between health and disease. Side effects from vaccinations can occur anywhere from instantly up to several weeks or months later. Vaccines can even cause susceptibility to chronic diseases that appear much later in a dogs life.”

Mild vaccine reactions include fever; urticaria (hives); stiffness; sore joints; digestive issues. Severe and fatal

adverse reactions include: susceptibility to infections; autoimmune disease, neurological disorders, cancer, associated tumours, kidney disease, allergic reactions. (Dodds, 2001).

The WSAVA VGG also recognises that every puppy / kitten’s maternal derived antibodies (MDA) will inhibit and impact on the effectiveness of vaccines on an individual basis.

Based on evidence that suggests maternal derived antibodies lessen around 16 weeks, the VGG recommends that a puppy/kitten second core vaccine shot should be applied at 16 weeks or later: then followed by a booster at six or 12-months of age.



ANNA WEBB

Interestingly in cultural or financial situation where a pet can only have one shot, the VGG recommends this should be given at 16 weeks of age or older.

With Prudence my Miniature Bull Terrier puppy, she was vaccinated under German legislation with her first core vaccine puppy shot at eight weeks. She has also had a Rabies shot, in line with the PETS passport scheme, to bring her home into the UK. Her

breeder’s vets in Germany sourced a Thermerosal (or mercury) free rabies shot manufactured by Merial.

Most vaccines whether ‘human’ or ‘animal contain at least two components; that of the actual disease ie Rabies and an immune adjuvant. This is added in the manufacture process as a preservative and to enhance the immune response. It is typically made from highly toxic

compounds such as Aluminum, Mercury and MSG.

Dr Ron Schultz believes some veterinary vaccines are using more advanced technologies (May 2011). He explained: “Aluminum was part of and is still the most common part of human vaccines’ adjuvants. Alum is the adjuvant added. It’s the only one approved for human vaccines. In veterinary vaccines, Alum is added but we have many other adjuvants in veterinary medicine as approvals can move faster”.

Prudence was Titre Tested for serological immunity to the core vaccines at 16 weeks. Her Titre revealed she had

responded well to the first puppy shot, and ‘seroconverted’. Proving she had been successfully immunised, not just vaccinated. There was no need to give Prudence her second ‘puppy’ shot. Regular Titre Testing will be used to confirm Prudence’s immunity status in years to come.

Making it easy for Vets in the UK to serologically test for immunity across the core vaccines, there are several in-practice WSAVA VGG approved Titre kits available, including VACCICHECK, designed by Dr Ron Shultz, and manufactured by Biogal.

As yet Titre Tests do not test the immunity for a variety of non-core vaccines, known to have a shorter immunity, such as Kennel Cough. Dr Ron Schultz (2009) explained: “Kennel cough is a mild and transient disease contracted during boarding or dog shows. Most pet dogs do not live in breeding kennels, are not boarded regularly and therefore: “rarely need to be vaccinated or re-vaccinated for kennel cough.”

Thanks to the WSAVA’s VGG In cases where kennels demand ‘vaccination’ certificates (for insurance purposes), Titre Tests can, with an accompanying letter from your vet, be certification of immunity to the core diseases.



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Anna WebbBroadcaster, Author, Trainer, studied natural nutrition and therapies with the College of

Integrated Veterinary Therapies (CIVT)

I’m a fan of Natural Instinct for bringing convenience into feeding a raw,

I like to say ‘natural’ feeding choice. Simply store, thaw and serve! It’s also about the peace of mind that my ‘furkids’ are eating

‘well’ with nutritional dense and completely balanced meals.


THE digestive system is central to every system in the body, providing critical nutrients and energy necessary to support

cardio-vascular health, immunity, respiration, muscles and joints, and more. For horses, maintaining a healthy digestive system can be a challenge for owners and trainers, as well as veterinary surgeons and paraprofessionals, given the stress of modern care, feeding and performance. Further, when digestive

health issues do arise, they can be difficult to identify, since symptoms may appear to originate from different sources. This article is part of a series for the paraprofessional that aims to explore GI health in horses, understanding the signs, and what can be done to promote recovery and long-term prevention.

Internal issues can present as external problems

It is widely recognised that the work of equine paraprofessionals is intrinsic to optimising health, well-being and performance in the horse. The efforts of osteopaths, chiropractors or physiotherapists are an integral aspect of managing the modern performance horse, and stem from a fundamental appreciation that all systems of the horse are linked, and must all be functioning correctly, in harmony,

for total health. The understanding that one system can create a problem within another is key in evaluating and treating every horse. In every case, consideration must be given to the possibility of an underlying digestive problem. This can be tricky, particularly when signs and severity often vary greatly between individuals.

“Poor performance” is likely one of the most frequent complaints when paraprofessionals are initially consulted. This can perhaps manifest as a deterioration in behaviour or temperament, varying degrees of unsoundness, tension and stiffness through the body, or a general reluctance to co-operate with their riders’ wishes. Accompanying loss of weight or condition may contribute to speculation that internal problems may be the cause of external problems, and that gastrointestinal tract disturbance may be the culprit.

Shifting the spotlight towards disease beyond the stomach

Until recently, gastric health has attracted predominant focus when discussing gastrointestinal tract health. However, Studies have shown, and continue to show, that abnormal pathology of the large colon and ceacum, is also significant. Original work by Pellegrini (2005) investigated the prevalence of colonic ulceration in 545 horses post mortem. In this study, 365 horses were of mixed breed and use, while 180 were classified as performance horses and were accompanied by a standard guaiac-based faecal occult

The Importance of Equine Gastrointestinal Tract Health

to the Paraprofessionalby Emma Hardy, PhD, R. Anim. Technol (Cert)

continued overleaf

EQUINE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT HEALTH

Above: Equine Digestive System Below: Hindgut ulceration

25Animal Therapy Magazine | WINTER 2017SUCCEED® is a registered trademark, and Equine Fecal Blood Test™ is a trademark of Freedom Health LLC. © 2017. All Rights Reserved. U.S. Patent Nos. 7,629,180 and 8,168,446. Canadian Patent No. 2,601,368.The SUCCEED Equine Fecal Blood Test is a quality product from Freedom Health LLC.

If the horse isn’t performing to potential, his

may be the real culprit.

DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

www.succeedfbt.co.uk

As important as it is to keep the horse’s muscles and joints in top

shape, don’t overlook the significance of the digestive tract. That’s

because the horse’s digestive system is the key to his ability to

train effectively and perform to potential, not to mention his overall

health, temperament, physical appearance…everything.

That’s why you should have every horse tested regularly with the

SUCCEED Equine Fecal Blood Test (FBT). The SUCCEED FBT

allows the vet to assess whether a horse has an underlying GI tract

condition in minutes, right in the stable.

When you know what’s going on beneath the surface, you can take

the appropriate action on the outside. That means healthy horses...

and happier clients.

Have the horse tested first with the SUCCEED® Equine Fecal Blood Test™.


blood test (gFOBT). As expected, the performance horses were more heavily afflicted by gastric ulcers than their more sedentary counterparts (87%, and 55% respectively) but, interestingly, the same trend was found for the incidence of colonic ulcers (63 and 44%, respectively). Overall, 97% of the horses necropsied were positive for some form of ulceration and at least 60% displayed colonic pathology.

This pioneering work, though crude, instigated an important shift in focus and gave rise to the idea that gastrointestinal disease in horses does, in fact, exist beyond the stomach.

Abnormal hindgut pathology is found in a high proportion of horses

Professor Derek Knottenbelt and his team at the Glasgow School of Veterinary Medicine, in collaboration with Freedom Health LLC, are continuing to shed new light on large bowel, and specifically colonic mucosal pathology. This work has revealed that such conditions are more prevalent than once thought – even in ostensibly normal horses. Knottenbelt et al. (2015) describes the findings from his preliminary post-mortem studies at Glasgow as very enlightening.

“In horses which demonstrated no gastrointestinal disease symptoms anti-mortem, and lacked confounding factors such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory administration, more than 60-70% were found to have significant large colon pathology.”

Professor Knottenbelt believes his study at Glasgow only scratches the surface of disease beyond the stomach, and with such high prevalence of abnormal pathology among even a small sample of horses, findings are striking. Knottenbelt surmises that “subclinical hindgut pathology does exist in a high proportion of horses” and believes that this is very likely to be of clinical significance.

Gastrointestinal tract health = health of all its components

The importance of approaching the gastrointestinal tract as an entire system should not be underestimated. An imbalance in in one area of the tract can exert another imbalance elsewhere. This may manifest overtly or through downstream changes within the tract itself. Knottenbelt explains ‘Of course the gut of the horse does not function as a single set of units – they are all linked both spatially and, in terms of

passage of the ingesta, temporally. This means that things that happen at the front will inevitably influence things that happen at the back.’

It goes without saying that any significant disease, no matter what area of the body is involved, will adversely affect performance and overall well-being. This is especially true for the gastrointestinal tract. Even though the actual influence can be very hard to quantify, there are plentiful reports of horses that have performed poorly, behave badly, and/or show behavioural neuroses who then go on to be diagnosed with significant gastrointestinal issues. Identifying early signs and symptoms whether direct or indirect, and implementing rapid, reliable methods of diagnosis is key, with the paraprofessional being ideally placed to implement these crucial steps. From this effective and targeted treatment can be ascribed leading to rapid resolution of the issues and ultimately better overall health, performance and future prevention.

Clearly, considering gastrointestinal disturbance when presented with both typical and atypical, non-specific signs and symptoms is a valuable approach in establishing a cause, treatment plan and ongoing prevention.

REFERENCES

Knottenbelt DC, Kerbyson N, Parkin TDH (2015) The prevalence of large intestinal mucosal pathology in horses being euthanized for non-gastrointestinal reasons. In: Proceedings of the 2015 ACVIM Forum. American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Forum, Indianapolis, Indiana.

Pellegrini F (2005) Results of a large-scale necroscopic study of equine colonic ulcers. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 25 (3): 113–117

EQUINE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT HEALTH

Above: 5cm Cherry Ulcer Top: Ulceration right ventral colon


What is it?

Idiopathic epilepsy is a common disease diagnosed in dogs and cats and it is the result of a known or strongly suspected genetic defect.

Animals with idiopathic epilepsy show seizures which are defined as “an abnormal excessive or synchronous (i.e. occurring at the same time) neuronal activity in the brain”. Your veterinarian will ask you to video record the episodes to make sure that your pet suffers with epileptic seizures.

How to Diagnose?

Idiopathic epilepsy is a diagnosis by exclusion i.e. by ruling out every other possible disease that exhibits seizures and therefore all the efforts are directed to Identify the underlying cause of the epileptic seizure. Its diagnosis is based on the presence of two or more unprovoked seizures, age of onset between six months and six years, normal physical and neurological examination between the episodes as well as normal blood tests (i.e. complete blood cell count and serum biochemistry profile) and urinalysis results.

When genetic mutation is known and it is suspected in your dog, genetic testing is advisable. Examples are benign familial juvenile epilepsy in the Lagotto Romagnolo, progressive myoclonic epilepsy in miniature wire haired Dachshunds, L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria in Staffordshire bull terriers.

Other Type of Seizures

If the above mentioned test results are abnormal, the epileptic seizures are called reactive seizures and your pet does not have ‘idiopathic epilepsy’. Reactive seizures are the response from the normal brain to a disturbance in other parts of the body such as low blood sugar or liver failure or intoxication. Further tests may be necessary to identify the cause and plan its treatment.

Once the idiopathic epilepsy is suspected, your veterinarian will therefore advise to refer your pet to a veterinary neurologist for further advance imaging such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain to rule out structural epilepsy i.e. seizures secondary to brain disease such as vascular, inflammatory/ infectious and neoplastic. Cerebrospinal fluid (i.e. lumbar puncture) analysis and other more specific diagnostic tests such as tests for infectious diseases may be necessary based on the MRI findings.

When Referral?

If idiopathic epilepsy is suspected, referral for MRI of the brain is not strictly necessary. However, if the dog shows abnormal behaviour in-between seizures and has <1 year or > 7 years of age when seizures appear, it is more likely that a structural brain disorder is present and MRI of the brain is strongly recommended.

Epileptic Seizures

Epileptic seizures often occur at rest or during sleep; however, they may also appear while you pet is awake or playing. They commonly last less than 5 min and the animal will show a combination of muscles stiffen and jerking body movements. It is usually followed by abnormal behaviour including disorientation, pacing, lethargy, hunger and blindness.

Idiopathic Epilepsy In Dogsby Anna Tauro MRCVS GP Cert (Neuro), ECVN Resident in Neurology and Neurosurgery

A history of two or more unprovoked epileptic

seizures occurring at least 24 h apart

Age at epileptic seizure onset of between 6 months

and 6 years

Normal physical and neurological examination

between epileptic seizures

Blood tests and urinalysis within normal limits

Idiopathic epilepsy

Idiopathic epilepsy (genetic epilepsy):

Proven or suspected

genetic cause

Reactive seizure:

Response from the normal brain to a

disturbance in other parts of

the body

Structural epilepsy:

Intracranial pathology

PRODROME AURA ICTUS POST-ICTAL

Canine Care




and 6 years




Idiopathic epilepsy


Proven or suspected

genetic cause

Reactive seizure:



the body




continued overleaf


out of their way, support their head from the back but AVOID HOLDING THEM DOWN or PUTTING ANYTHING IN THEIR MOUTH) and annotate the time the seizure starts and ends. Talk calmly to your dog when recovers and reduce any stimuli in the room e.g. switching off the TV, turn down the lights.

There are two phenomena that are essential to be aware of as immediate veterinary attention should be sought. They are:

• Cluster seizure is when there are two or more seizures within a 24-hour period.

• Status epilepticus is when continuous epileptic seizure is greater than 5 minutes OR when two or more epileptic seizures occur with incomplete recovery of consciousness in-between.

Immediate veterinarian attention should be sought in case of CLUSTER SEIZURE or

STATUS EPILEPTICUS.

Your veterinarians may have given you diazepam rectal solution to be used during the seizures. We advise you to use it, if the seizure has not stopped or slowed down within 5 minutes.

Your veterinarian will decide when to start the treatment. As a general

rule, treatment should be started in a dog that has had a cluster seizure or status epilepticus OR when 2 or more epileptic seizures occur within a 6-month period. Treatment is also indicated if frequency and/or duration and/or severity is increasing over 3 inter-ictal periods.

The aim of the treatment is to have a seizure-free dog; however, in reality this is challenging and we aim to reduce the frequency, duration and severity of the seizures.

It is important to keep a record of the seizures and we would advise to use either the RVC Pet Epilepsy Tracker App for Android, iPad and iPhone downloadable from internet or paper-based diary downloadable at http://www.epiphenonline.co.uk and http://www.pexion.co.uk/monitoring-your-dogs-seizures/.

It is essential regular administration of the drug and regular check-ups at your veterinarian to avoid pitfalls in the seizure control. Any drugs have adverse effects and it is important to recognise them. In general, anti-seizure drugs may cause increase in thirst, appetite and urination. Many of them will cause drowsiness; however, this is often temporary and will resolve within 1-2 weeks of the treatment. We do recommend to discuss with your veterinarian for further details.




and 6 years




Idiopathic epilepsy


Proven or suspected

genetic cause

Reactive seizure:



the body







and 6 years




Idiopathic epilepsy


Proven or suspected

genetic cause

Reactive seizure:



the body




DON’THOLD THE ANIMAL DOWN

PUT ANYTHING IN THEIR MOUTH

DOSTAY CALMPROTECT ANIMAL FROM INJURY TALK CALMLYTIME THE SEIZURESCALL YOUR VET IF SEIZURE> 5 MIN

SEIZURE FIRST AID

Phases of Seizures

The epileptic seizure is also named ‘ictus’. ‘Prodrome’ and ‘aura’ are phases that proceed the seizure i.e. the ictus; while, ‘post-ictal’ phase is present after the seizure.

Prodrome is a phase that precedes the seizure and may last hours to days. The dog may have behavioural changes such as restlessness, anxiousness, or attention-seeking.

Aura is a subjective phenomenon characterised by abnormal perceptions such as strange light, an unpleasant smell, or confusing thoughts. As animals cannot describe their experience an aura is difficult to prove in animals although some owners may suspect it by a change in the dog’s behaviour

Ictus is the epileptic seizure in itself.

Post-ictus is the phase after the seizure, when the brain recovers and may be accompanied by distressing signs in some dogs for example restlessness, head pressing, disorientation, vocalisation and compulsive walking/pacing or temporary blindness. This may last hours or days.

It is not unusual that owners’ confuse the post-ictal phase as

part of the ictus (ie seizure).

The epileptic seizure often seems to last longer than it actually does;

it is recommended to look at a watch or clock to accurately

determine its length.

During the seizures, it is advisable to stay calm, make sure the dog is not injuring itself (e.g. move obstacles




and 6 years




Idiopathic epilepsy


Proven or suspected

genetic cause

Reactive seizure:



the body





Are we all pulling in the same direction? As an industry we need to work together in order to satisfy the demands of our clients and the Veterinary industry, so I ask the question: “Are we?”

With any industry, in order to progress, move with the times and match the ever evolving world of ‘therapy’, we must make changes and develop our knowledge, skills and techniques to meet the demands we put on animals whether that be in competition, leisure or work.

Since the birth of using therapies to treat animals, many associations have emerged, all with a common goal of ensuring their therapists meet certain requirements such as CPD, hold insurance and are fully trained in the profession they follow. With so many associations, it can be confusing for the veterinary world, paraprofessionals and owners, and for this reason talks have been taking place to bring the industries together so we are all working towards a standard. For this reason, Animals First was born.

Putting Animals FirstBy Fred Lawrence

Chair of The International Association of Animal Therapists, MD of The College of Animal Physiothearpy

With changes afoot, Animal Therapy Magazine spoke to some organisations involved in the initiative to bring the world of animal therapy together. With some differing opinions we hope the following articles provide you with the information you need

when choosing a therapist to work with.

The Animals First committee consists of most, if not all, of the Animal Massage and soft tissue associations, both of the hydrotherapy associations, many animal manipulation groups as well as some newer disciplines in the animal industry. As a group we are also supported by animal physiotherapy associations, all working together towards a common goal.

The vision is to create an umbrella association which all the other associations join allowing Vets and animal owners to be confident of the ability of the members, knowing they are insured and may be trusted with the care of the animals they are treating. This could in time include other animal-related areas.

Our aim is that it would create a framework for the improvement of standards where required, and provide a disciplinary structure as well as a robust complaints procedure. In essence, a supportive, inclusive regulatory body for the whole industry.



THE MSK Animal/Veterinary Group are all like minded associations whose primary concern is the welfare of

the animal, the group involves associations whose members are qualified, insured and have to adhere to professional requirements set by their individual professional bodies in order to retain their membership. The National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists (NAVP) is one of the groups involved in these talks to regulate the industry.

Over the years these associations have increased the level of knowledge and competency of those coming into the profession and in January 2013 Lantra gave us the platform we needed to begin discussions by bringing all musculoskeletal groups together with the aim of creating an inclusive register which could be consulted by veterinary surgeons and members of the public when looking for a qualified therapist to work with.

In 2009 NAVP took their course to Harper Adams University, Shropshire and asked them to take it on as a university validated degree that met all the education requirements set by the government. Our aim was to ensure that those who graduated from a direct entry Veterinary Physiotherapy degree were knowledgeable, competent, safe and effective by virtue of the academic and practical skills acquired during their training.

Direct entry courses are those whose students train on animals first rather than starting their training on humans. At postgraduate level, some of the students are already qualified to treat humans but have chosen to further their training using one of the direct entry university courses for animal/veterinary physiotherapy. NAVP have been central in promoting

this approach with courses now being run at Harper Adams University, Moreton Morrell and Writtle University College.

The MSK Animal/Veterinary Group have made considerable progress over the past few years and have agreed and implemented minimum standards:

1. A minimum level 6 course as recognised by HEFCE - which is a BSc or BSc (Hons) course normally delivered over 3 years or an equivalent level 6 course of equal complexity and duration as recognised by other qualification QA bodies.

2. Day one competencies/skills.

3. Scope of practice.

4. Annual requirements for insurance.

5. Annual Continuing Professional Development.

The professional associations of which graduates become members have:

1. An elected executive.

2. A robust code of conduct.

3. Disciplinary procedure.

4. Annual requirements for insurance and CPD.

The aim now is to work under one umbrella, cohesive and structured to provide confidence to the veterinary surgeons and public that all those who hold a BSc (or equivalent level 6 course of equal complexity and duration as recognised by other qualification QA bodies.) or PgD Animal/Veterinary physiotherapy degree are fully qualified and insured to practice.

It has therefore been disappointing that recent media suggests that unless you are human trained first you may not be able to work as an Animal/Veterinary physiotherapist, that you

do not have the necessary knowledge or practical ability to treat an animal unless you have first treated a human. The university courses, their graduates and the requirements set by the professional associations show that those who have trained on animals first are well qualified and regulated.

If we are to take the argument that by practicing on verbally responsive patients we will understand the application and outcomes of intervention, then should that not apply to anyone who is involved in the treatment and welfare of animals? If we consider the scientific and academic knowledge required for us to be able to assess, critically evaluate and clinically reason the causative factors for an animal’s musculoskeletal pain, then we have indeed made progress. The university courses that NAVP are involved with ensure a fully comprehensive training based on a sound understanding of a range of factors including: anatomy and physiology, gait and conformation, health and disease, physical therapies and rehabilitation.

Rehabilitation

Physical therapies

Dysfunction

Gait/conformation

Anatomy and Physiology

The animal trained therapist must have a good understanding of the management and behaviour of animals. Dealing with a non-verbally responsive patient requires heightened skills of observation and palpation together with an ability to take a concise and focussed case history.

A Current Perspective on the MSK Animal/Veterinary Group

by Halina Tombs, Chair NAVP


31Animal Therapy Magazine | WINTER 2017 31Animal Therapy Magazine | WINTER 2017

As well as good technical ability, the therapist must have good communication skills with the owner and animal. Without this, the opportunity to treat could fail leaving the animal in pain and the owner feeling helpless. To be able to relate to the animal and the owner is the key to forming a successful relationship. Likewise, the communication between the therapist and veterinary surgeon is critical. If communication fails, then the relationship between all the parties can be affected to the detriment of the animal. In contrast, good communication can significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome.

Veterinary professionals and paraprofessionals

Owners Therapists

Petscontinued overleaf


Our members are highly skilled in providing physiotherapy care for animals. We work as part of the multi-disciplinary team which is involved

with the care and welfare of animals.

Members are graduates of university validated BSc and PgD/MSc courses that are accredited and supported by the NAVP.

NAVP members must fulfil certain requirements including CPD, they must carry Professional Liability Insurance and practice in line with the Associations regulations and standards of practice.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS CONTACT:

EMAIL [email protected]

WEBSITE www.navp.co.uk

Promoting Excellence in Veterinary Physiotherapy

who have trained on humans first. If the industry is to truly hold that the welfare of the animal is paramount, then there is common ground for all involved to provide a quality service for the animals and their owners. Failure just leaves the animal missing out and the owners and veterinary surgeons confused about how best to serve injured animals.

It is the welfare of the animal that has brought the MSK Animal/Veterinary Group together and it is important that this is kept in mind at all times. The only legal requirement is for those of us who offer musculoskeletal treatment to only treat an animal following veterinary referral, not whether one is animal or human trained. Clients and vets prefer to see the therapists working under one roof and this is something the MSK Animal/Veterinary Group is striving to achieve and this process is done through transparency, setting aside our own personal wishes, looking at what is in the interest of the client, communication and the right to agree and disagree yet to find common ground.

At each stage therapists (indeed all parties involved) need to ensure that the wellbeing of the animal is kept paramount. If this does not happen there is a danger of fragmentation, confusion and the opportunity for ensuring the best opportunity of recovery could be lost.

For clients and veterinary surgeons, it is also imperative that therapists are all singing from the same hymn sheet. If we are to truly hold to the fact that the wellbeing of the animal is paramount, then it is crucial that therapists working in the veterinary area fall under one roof. Debate and discussion should be balanced with all parties listening to the other. To simply dismiss those who have completed a university degree where the focus of training is on animals, without transparent and honest discussion is to call into question the reasons for such dismissal.

Currently there is no compulsory register and no independent regulation. There are registers for therapists who have trained on animals first and there are registers for those

HALINA TOMBS Halina has been working as a veterinary physiotherapist for 30 years and is one of the NAVP tutors providing the clinical education and assessment for students on the PgD/MSc direct entry courses at Harper Adams University, Writtle University College and on the BSc at Moreton Morrell. Halina has been NAVP Chair for 5 years and is committed to the aims and objectives of the association and its members. Alongside her equine practice, she runs a busy human clinic.



An important new register has been created. The Register for Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners (RAMP) lists professionals using Chiropractic, Osteopathic and Physiotherapy techniques for animals.

Those listed will have reached the Gold Standard of practice set by RAMP. The list is available on the website www.rampregister.org. It is organised by geographical area to make practitioners easy-to-find for vets, trainers and animal owners.

RAMP was developed following the RMPR (Review of Minor Procedures Regime) evidence-gathering exercise led by DEFRA. The relevant findings were that:

a. The MSK sector is a relatively young industry which contains multiple competing philosophies, qualifications, courses and course providers that was creating confusion for animal owners and potentially putting animal welfare at risk.

b. The current situation was hindering essential cooperation, liaison and interaction between vets and practitioners.

c. MSK therapies should only be carried out by those persons who are appropriately competent to do so, without causing any avoidable pain, distress or suffering to the animal.

d. The animal owner should be able to make an informed choice i.e. that they can choose an appropriately competent person to provide the required services and, therefore, help them to stay within the law. There should be appropriate redress.

Informed ChoiceThis industry-led initiative has been welcomed by DEFRA who believe that RAMP could be a useful tool. They think that it will help animal owners make an informed choice when considering musculoskeletal practitioners for their animal.

In the past, many owners have taken practitioners at face value. Unfortunately, this has not always worked out well. Some owners have been unable to make a complaint

when things have gone wrong. That was because there was not a robust organisation behind their chosen therapist.

The RAMP listing will only show practitioners who are sufficiently competent and insured. They will also have to comply with the Code of Conduct and Scope of Practice and continuing professional development requirements.

Gold StandardDeveloping RAMP has involved discussions with the British Veterinary Association (BVA), the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA), British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA). The RCVS and the regulatory bodies of the three professions in the human field have also been consulted. This has helped the RAMP steering group to understand the levels of practice and professional conduct vets require before they feel confident to refer. The result is the RAMP Gold Standard.

BEVA President Vicki Nicholls said “BEVA has long argued for a legislative review to address standards, titles, and the vet/therapist relationship, safeguard welfare and provide a system that protects owners. This is a good first step.”

BEN HASTIE PHOTOGRAPHYSpecialising in Equine and Countryside PhotographyPlease find us on Facebook at ‘Ben Hastie Photos’ 07970 348883 • email: [email protected]


MOST of us love a challenge in life, something that makes you think outside of the box. Being faced

clinically with a rare condition is exciting and can lead to several hours of research before proper treatment is administered. But what if the challenge is more with the patient’s make up, rather than it’s condition?

At Zoo Ost Ltd we love a challenge. For more than 27 years we have been faced with the weird and wonderful. Patients of all shapes and sizes have passed through our clinics, and one that has always generated a lot of interest has been the humble European Hedgehog (Erinaceous europaeus). This enigmatic little creature quite often comes to grief caught up in plastic waste, or badly cut up by garden strimmers, as well as the odd dog or badger attack. Most of the latter don’t make it to any of the clinics as badgers usually manage to eat any they catch.

Hedgehogs, despite their looks, are extremely agile and like to climb under and over obstacles. Over the years we’ve seen them get into some pretty tricky situations. Occasionally they suffer such nasty open wound injuries to legs that they either require amputation (hind limb), or euthanasia if it’s a front limb.

They seem to cope well if they lose one hind limb, as they distribute slightly more of their weight over the front legs. They also use the front limbs to dig around for grubs and worms, making the loss of one of these much more serious.

One of the rules wildlife hospitals adhere to is that the individual patient must be fit and strong enough to cope back in the wild. One such test for hedgehogs is the strength that they can curl up, and remain curled with attempts to uncurl administered carefully. By touching a hedgehog’s back they should automatically curl up. Hedgehogs interlock their limbs once curled up to present a spiky, solid defence. The hairs on their abdomen and around their face are soft and offer no protection from an attacker,

therefore they bury these parts, leaving only the tough spines to face any would be threat. The spines themselves are adapted body hairs and are made up of the same material, keratin.

As long as one of these amputee patients can curl up and maintain the posture against resistance it is deemed ok for release back to the wild. From an osteopathic viewpoint we are keen to reduce any internal fascial contraction due to surgical intervention both around the surgical site, and globally

The Zoo Ost Limited approach

by Tony Nevin, BSc (Hons) Ost, DO

Coping with

Prickly Patients

OSTEOPATHY

Creating controlled exercises in this case climbing up and over the authors hands whilst some drag is provided to the hind quarters of this European Hedgehog


Above: Applying functional release work through the hind limbs of a European Hedgehog

Below: Applying sustained positional release laterally through the entire body of a European Hedgehog

throughout the individual as it develops a compensatory pattern to cope with the altered weight distribution and changes to its gait.

Amputations only form a small proportion of the hedgehog patients we get to see throughout the year. Most that receive osteopathic care have other issues. These range from soft tissue trauma (garden strimmer injuries, dog bites, snare and plastic waste abrasions), to the musculoskeletal (MSK) effects from poisoning, in particular from slug pellets, as slugs make up a large part of their diet; to the ever present danger from crossing roads.

They are tough little creatures but not indestructible.

All of the individuals that we get to work with have already been thoroughly assessed and treated by dedicated wildlife rehab staff and the embedded veterinary team at the wildlife hospital.

This gives us access to all the notes, medication regimes, and also highlights if any have zoonotic diseases such as ringworm, and therefore precautions we need to take pre and post handling.

As well as all of this they are closely monitored regarding feeding, weight, and the consistency of their bowel movements. This data helps everyone to assess each patient’s progress.

At this time of year (winter) the hospital gets many underweight individuals in for various reasons. These cannot be released until they reach a certain weight, which means overwintering them at the centre as they would not survive hibernation.Hedgehogs cope well with being kept in captivity much better than most wildlife. Although all of their needs are met, staff maintain as much of a hands off routine as is possible to avoid making them tame.

Hedgehogs also vary in temperament, with most quite easy to handle, whilst occasionally one will be particularly defensive. This they exhibit by growling (hedgehog style), puffing

continued overleaf


OSTEOPATHY

themselves up and making short jerky movements, and, very occasionally, biting. Their dentition is very similar to that of a ferret, and having been bitten the author can tell you its not pleasant (although nothing when compared to a ferrets bite!).

However most hedgehogs are very easy to work with, and respond extremely well to myo-fascial release methods, and functional release techniques, often combined with engaging the involuntary mechanism.

When osteopaths talk about myo-fascial release they are referring to the subtle tension patterns that exist throughout the body that allow an individual to maintain their framework’s integrity, as well as allow it to propel itself about. These patterns are unique to each animal, as they will have evolved throughout its life. Fasciae will contract and can store tension following physical or emotional trauma. In certain cases this can have life threatening consequences to an individual. Hedgehogs need to increase their body mass throughout the warm months of the year, so that they can enter into a loose form of hibernation during winter. This is where they slow their bio functions right down, but can awaken for short periods if environmental temperatures rise high enough. If an individual has

excessive myo-fascial tension it is going to burn more calories throughout the active part of the year, making it harder to gain the necessary weight to see it through winter.

Reading these patterns comes down to experience. Knowing how a hedgehog should move, then watching it in the clinic, before physically examining. The treatment itself can be likened to slowly unraveling a tightly wound rubber band. Tension can only be released slowly, and in vectors that the patient is happy to allow. This means the osteopath has to go with the path of least resistance, rather than trying to stretch and force movement along tight vectors.

Hedgehogs will work with you when you are doing the right thing. Their breathing relaxes and they remain calm. Do the wrong thing and they will fidget about, and in extreme cases attempt to bite.

Functional release techniques, simply put, involve the osteopath approximating origin and insertion of a muscle, or muscle group, and waiting for messages from the golgi tendon apparatus to dampen down motor function to the innervated muscles in question. This is about as exciting to watch as paint drying, but does yield powerful results, and just as importantly, the patients usually love it.

Sustained positional release applied through the entire body of a European Hedgehog viewed from above.

Engaging the involuntary mechanism is where the osteopath subtly feels for the rhythmic movement created through the meninges around the brain and spinal cord, which corresponds to the production and flow of the all important cerebro-spinal fluid. This is about as far out as manual therapy goes, where research has been able to measure changes to the physiology of these structures. By very gently altering surface pressure over strategic points on the patients body the osteopath can alter this rhythm, making it possible to effect big changes to an individuals overall MSK function, in that the individual will show visible signs of improved function, and often a change in temperament.

As well as the physical side to each short treatment session of around 5 minutes hands on, there are the all important controlled exercise programmes. This is of particular importance with any lameness or amputee patients.

With some it will involve a larger cage or outside run, whereas others may require more specific obstacle courses. In the early stages the author often encourages the patient to climb over his hands, whilst altering the gradient to maximize effort from a particular region of the hedgehogs MSK system.

Again, these hands on sessions are kept to a short time frame, and are used as much to gauge improvements, as they are to actively exercise the patient. Small hedgehog enclosures with CCTV are then used to assess general progress without interference.

When they are fit and healthy again, and spring has arrived, these prickly patients can be returned to the wild once more, hopefully to lead safer lives!

So, in summary, hedgehogs may be prickly on the outside, but underneath they are just as responsive as any other mammal to osteopathic intervention.

They also make for a welcome sight for any gardener and wildlife enthusiast.

[email protected]


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TEAM Coldfeet has become the joint passion of husband and wife, Kaz and Pete Jones (and their daughter, Hannah).

Together they have built a winning reputation in Sled Dog Racing for over 18 years.

Considered one of the most successful teams in the UK, team Coldfeet recently won the Silver medal at the European Dryland Sled Dog Championships hosted by IFSS “International Federation of Sled Dogs”, Staged in the UK for the first time in Thetford Forest in Norfolk, over 19 nations competed for the coveted medals and trophies.

Passionate about their breed Kaz

and Pete have embraced the Siberian Husky’s need and love for running. In fulfilling the Husky’s role as the original endurance sled dog, Team Coldfeet is at the peak of its condition: emotionally, mentally and physically.

With several generations of their dogs now competing in other winning teams, Kaz and Pete take enormous pride in their Coldfeet line, which has been bred for its conformation, temperament, and stamina.

The couple are also no strangers to the show ring and at Crufts where their Coldfeet Siberian Huskies are frequently placed as being quality dogs within their breed, and bred to be fit for purpose as ‘sled’ dogs.

A winter weekend does not go by without Team Coldfeet competing in sprint racing somewhere in the British Isles. Pete currently runs a six-dog class, the maximum number currently taking part in the UK. Kaz runs a four-dog team and their daughter Hannah ran as a junior champion with two dogs from the age of eight until sixteen.

Keeping their now 18-strong team of Huskies in peak condition, Kaz and Pete optimise a holistic approach. Ensuring the best natural diet and integrating complementary therapies to maximum effect, Team Coldfeet keeps running.

In 2013 Kaz Jones met with Ruth Milner, MD of Danetre Health, the sole UK distributor of Photizo® Vetcare. Intrigued by the potential of modern Phototherapy offered by the Photizo® device, Kaz immediately decided her Husky team would benefit from regular ‘light therapy’.

Photizo® Vetcare boasts a powerful combination of pre-programmed 31 second doses of pulsating red and Infra-red LED Phototherapy. It ensures a fast delivery of an effective evidence based dose of light /Phototherapy, which speeds up the natural healing process.

Since incorporating Photizo® Vetcare proactively as part of their dogs daily routine, Kaz and Pete Jones are so impressed with how Photizo has helped their dogs, they are now Ambassadors for Photizo® and have encouraged its use across the UK Sled Dog community.

Team Coldfeet is in pole position with Photizo®

by Anna Webb

PHOTIZO®

Karen & Pete - Team Coldfeet


Both Kaz and Pete have harnessed Photizo® not only on a variety of musculoskeletal injuries, but also with great effect on wounds. It is inevitable that sometimes injuries are incurred albeit accidentally when racing. As part of the preparations for an upcoming race, Kaz and Pete will routinely run Photizo® over their dogs ensuring they are physically in the best condition to run.

Kaz Jones explained: “Using Photizo’s pre-programmed 31-second dose couldn’t be simpler. Each evidence-based dose promotes circulation to the muscles whilst reducing any inflammation. Photizo® also helps to re-oxidise the key muscles groups prior to and after a race”.

Proud of her team, she enthuses: “I’m passionate about keeping my dogs fit, strong and healthy. We use Photizo® as a preventative measure in addition to healing minor injuries that just happen to Huskies, even if they’re out playing in the garden.

continued overleaf

We’ll use Photizo® regularly running into a race. We want to ensure they’re in tip-top condition to run. That way I’m happy we’re not putting them under any duress.

I can notice a small imbalance in the movement with my naked eye. Each of our dogs has its own slight weakness. Bear, aged five, is one of Pete’s lead dogs in his six-dog team. He strained his shoulder after accidentally colliding with a bollard when he was younger. From time to time I’ll see a ‘flare’ up, almost before it’s happened. Using Photizo® I’ll prevent it from worsening.

Angel, one of our veterans now 11 years old, has signs of arthritis in her front pasterns. Before we began using Photizo® Angel might wince slightly as we put her into her harness. But lately she has shown no signs of pain at all.

I find that on some races where there are some fast downhill runs, they can bruise their front paw-pads, so I’ll pay attention to these. Photizo® helps restore circulation to all the small

joints in the paws and toes, easing any soreness and arthritis.

Rogue another of our veterans at 11 years old. Like Angel she still loves to run, and is showing no signs of slowing down. I’ll use Photizo® on her front legs and up to her shoulders, an area she’s showing signs of slight arthritis.

Post a race Photizo® again comes into its own to soothe and restore the dogs’ tired muscles.

It releases endorphins and has an analgesic effect encouraging the dogs to calm and settle after their exertion and adrenaline highs.

Integrating Photizo® with massage helps the cool down phase. It also builds a strong bond between us and the dogs. They trust that we’re helping them and they willingly accept the treatment.”

Kaz and Pete have also used Photizo® to help with some emergency wounds incurred being out in the wilds at a Sled dog competition.


Rogue (aptly named) is known for getting up to mischief and if any of the team were unlucky enough to be bitten by a tick, it would be her!

Kaz explained: “Rogue suffered a tick bite infection . I found a small hole on her front left leg, which had quickly developed an infection where she must have pulled the tick out herself. I used Photizo® everyday over the whole wound area. I combined regular doses of Leucillin. It was amazing to see how quickly it healed. In only 10 days, the wound was barely visible.”

Invariably running at speed on rugged ground can cause accidental lacerations to the paws. During training at Sherwood Forest Rogue severely cut the back of her heel whilst running through deep leaves. Again deploying Photizo® everyday and spraying with Leucillin across the wound, there was no infection and she was back running again after only 12 days.

PHOTIZO®

Vet Surgeon, Berol Goede, helped develop the veterinary market in South Africa with cases studies on small animals, horses and wild-life (including cheetahs and a cockatoo).She explained: “In general veterinary work, the biggest use is bite wounds, chronic necrotic wounds and oozing abscesses. We use it to clean up septic wounds. Photizo Vetcare’s near infrared light has also been shown to increase immune system functioning. This means that a local treatment of a wound or muscular injury has a general immune enhancing effect helping to prevent any infections. In addition Photizo® Vetcare stimulates fibroblast and collagen formation needed for wound closure, strong muscles and bone formation.”

Photizo® Vetcare creates biological effects at a cellular level to stimulate the production of ATP, the cellular energy that is needed for healing and cellular regeneration. Vetcare also

increases the blood supply to the wound, muscles and joints, reducing swelling and inflammation.Helping with pain relief via the stimulation of endorphin and serotonin secretion, the combination of light treatment with Photizo® Vetcare increases the blood and lymph diameter; thereby increasing the removal of debris whilst promoting the inflow of oxygen and nutrients, helping cells to function at optimum levels.

What’s so ideal for Kaz and Pete is Photizo®’s pocket size to take on rallies with them. Easily rechargeable, Photizo® is convenient to take anywhere. It is so simple to use, and unlike a laser light that can pose a risk to the eyes and cumbersome eyewear is recommended. With Photizo® LED light sources, there’s no risk, making its application much simpler and safer.

Ruth Milner, Managing Director of Danetre Health Products, added:

“Photizo® is the result of years of research. It uniquely combines the latest advances in LED technology to offer a modern Phototherapy device, which is safe and simple for anyone to use. This is one of the reasons Photizo® is rapidly becoming a popular proactive and reactive therapy tool for any owner or competitor in the

world of animal sports, especially when the health and recovery of the musculoskeletal system in their performance animal is paramount.”

As Team Coldfeet prepare to end the 2017 season on another high, Photizo® Vetcare will be at hand to keep the team in peak performance and in pole position into 2018 and beyond.

For more information on Photizo® Vetcare visit:

www.danetrehealthproducts.com

For more information on Team Coldfeet visit: www.freewebs.com/coldfeethuskies

Watching Lillie’s Vetcare Treatment


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CLOUDY is an 8 year old Thoroughbred gelding. He competitively and successfully raced until he unfortunately

struck into himself, left hind into left fore damaging the superficial digital flexor tendon. Initial scan shows a midline split to tendon.

Cloudy was initially put on box rest

The use of ultrasound therapy on tendon injuries in horses

by Hannah Ashton, BSc, Veterinary physiotherapist, MIAAT

ULTRASOUND THERAPY

with a return to work once sound, however, intermittent lameness forced a decision to retire him from racing. He was moved to me for further treatment in the hope we could get him sound enough to enjoy a new career. Due to his tendency to box walk and weave, he was turned out into a small paddock area, with the sun on his back and time to enjoy a bit of Dr grass!

Upon first inspection he had significant scar tissue and presented 2 - 3 tenths lame. He was ultrasound scanned so we had a starting point of reference and treatment began.

Having previously gained very positive results from therapeutic ultrasound treatment to check ligaments, deep and superficial digital flexor tendon injuries, it was decided to proceed with an intensive course and re-scan in 3 months to gauge improvement.

Using an EQultrasound machine and the protocol submitted by BAC, he was treated daily to start with, followed by every other day, then every 3rd day until we reached the 3 month mark.

CLOUDY JOKEROn clinical examination the super-ficial flexor tendon was enlarged on palpation in the distal third.

On ultrasound scan of the region there was a generalised enlargement of the superficial digital flexor tendon (sdft) within the digital flexor tendon sheath. There was a reduced echogenicity in the overall appearance of the sdft when compared with the contralateral limb, the enlargement and hypoechoic appearance was seen over approximately 4cm length of tendon. A complete loss of fibre pattern and hypoechoic appearance centrally suggested a complete split in the tendon. Tendon above and below this 4cm region appeared normal.

In the longitudinal plane a linear area of fibre pattern loss and hypoechoic appearance confirmed a tear within the body of the tendon.

Elise Paterson BVMS CertAVP(ESO) MRCVS from B&W Equine Vets


continued overleaf

It is essential that any ultrasound therapy is carried out by a qualified and trained professional as there are many contraindications to this form of therapy which can bring serious consequences.

After one month of ultrasound treatment, and confirmation of soundness, controlled walk exercise was introduced to encourage strengthening of the tendon. It is believed that to put a structure under a bit of pressure, encourages it to stimulate natural healing, but this must be introduced steadily.

He was started on 15 minutes walk exercise either being ridden or lead. This was increased by 10 minutes each week until he reached 45 minutes. After 1 month, trot was introduced allowing just short periods at first and increasing gently, keeping a close eye on soundness at all times. Canter work was introduced after his 3 month scan.

Another essential aspect of the rehabilitation was to encourage good head carriage and posture. Cloudy is a very ‘busy’ horse who likes to speed along with his nose in the clouds. Not only does this make riding him quite tricky, but it is also a very jarring posture to work in. A high head carriage will invert the back making it braced. A braced back can not only damage the vertebral column and surrounding muscles but it will also make movement in-elastic and jarring on all joints. Foot fall will become very heavy and could further damage the already weak tendon.

Cloudy was encourage to work in a soft outline, lifting and engaging his back. This further lifted his shoulders allowing his muscles to absorb the concussive forces rather than his joints and tendons. This posture will also encourage muscle development, and the more muscle, the better the shock absorption!

Following a positive result from his 3 month scan and as there had been no return of lameness, canter work was slowly introduced ensuring he only worked on a quality, sure footed surface. Ultrasound continued once weekly or after harder work. He also wears good quality, supportive, breathable boots when exercising and turned out and therapeutic leg wraps while in the stable.

It has been documented that should tendons reach 42 degrees, this may affect the health and functionality of the all so important tendon cells. Whilst tendon temperature is difficult to measure (most studies measure the outside temperature of the leg making it hard to establish

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ULTRASOUND THERAPY

the actual tendon temperature accurately) it is advised to be careful in your choice of leg covering and support. Bandaging appears to create the greatest temperature when worn during exercise!

Whilst this article has concentrated on trauma and heat as the damaging factor of tendons, I must add that the most recent research suggests cumulative wear and tear with or without an overstretch injury is the most likely cause for tendon injuries, therefore, daily all round

care of all tendons and ligaments is so important. Horse are an amazing feat of engineering when they are right, but when they go wrong it can be life changing.

Work now continues taking each day at a time and ultrasound treatment continues at least once a week to maintain the health of the tendon. He has started jumping and his owner is hoping to do a charity flat race in a few months providing his leg continues to remain settled and he maintains soundness.

Whilst ultrasound is a great form of therapy, as with everything, there are times it isn’t appropriate, and this is the reason you should only work with someone who is fully trained.

Do NOT treat the following areas: head and eyes, uterus and testicles, heart area.

Treatment should NOT be performed if the horse / dog has any of the following conditions: phlebitis, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, pregnancy, tumors or cancers, prosthesis.

With some machines, it is not appropriate to use ultrasound on

pregnant animals or young animals where growth plates are still active. Other machines have indicated positive results, so this must be checked with the supplier.

Inflammation and infection can be treated but with caution and again the therapist will know whether it is appropriate or not.

Due to the nature of ultrasound therapy, there have been incidences of over exposure to bone, weakening the structure with some cases of spontaneous fractures. Your therapist will set an appropriate programme ensuring this doesn’t happen.

HOW ULTRASOUND WORKSEQultrasound therapy can be successfully employed to treat musculoskeletal conditions, including tendon injuries, tendinopathies, desmitis and ligament injuries.

The tendon and ligament healing processes require cellular, vascular and extracellular matrix changes.

The non-thermal acoustic effects of EQultrasound therapy (stable cavitation, acoustical streaming and microstreaming) can stimulate cell migration, proliferation, and collagen synthesis of tendon and ligament cells.

EQultrasound low-frequency ultrasound treatment promotes tendon and ligament tissue healing by increasing protein synthesis, fibroblast proliferation, angiogenesis and collagen reorganization. Its most significant benefits occur during the inflammatory, granulation, and proliferative phases of the tendon and ligament healing processes.

Furthermore EQultrasound non-thermal acoustic effects induce a sort of micro-massage at cellular level enhancing reabsorption of excess fluids and therefore decreasing soft tissue edema. The thermal effects of EQultrasound therapy (diathermy) induce vasodilation, increase cellular metabolic activities and increase collagen extensibility, which also contribute for a positive effect on tendon and ligament healing.

On acute conditions you can see immediate results (in one or two treatments). EQ therapy helps draining all excess fluid build-ups (edema and hematomas) and promote a much faster recovery due to the induced acoustic effects (cavitation, acoustical streaming and microstreaming), which stimulate tissue repair and regeneration.

EQultrasound – BACE-mail: [email protected]

At the 3 month follow up scan, Cloudy presented sound. The overall size of the damaged area of tendon was slightly reduced. It is likely the sdft will remain enlarged. The echogenicity had increased and fibre pattern was aligned in a more linear pattern. The hypoechoic split centrally was still apparent, however the bordering sections of tendon were more defined, it is likely the split will remain present throughout the horses life.

WHEN NOT TO USE ULTRASOUND THERAPY


STRAINS of the canine groin muscles are often caused by over-stretching. A principle for the mechanism could be

that under eccentric contraction, the muscles are engaged at the end of their range during high speed twisting and turning coupled with the quick deceleration involved in canine sports (Lawrence).

Previous research indicates that ‘groin strains’ in the canine patient are primarily of the Iliopsoas muscles. Symptoms include (Hind limb) lameness, decreased hip joint extension as well as (specific to Agility) ‘pole knocking’ and missing weaves poles.

Additionally, our ‘athletic dog’ case studies have included tightness in the other groin muscles (with or without strain to iliopsoas).

Canine Agility requires high speed twisting and turning

Canine Groin Muscles Rehabilitation and Strengthening

Canine Care

“During high speed twisting and turning coupled with quick deceleration, these muscles are engaged under eccentric contraction at the end of their normal range of motion”

This is particularly noticeable on palpation of the pectineus, a small thumb sized muscle high up in the inside leg. It may be that all the adductor muscles are also under tension (as they are innervated by the same nerve). Experience has associated this with corresponding gluteal weakness and abductor tightness.

This article gives a practitioner’s overview to conservative treatments using physiotherapy and strengthening based protocols to enable the canine athlete to return to work.

OVERVIEW OF GROIN AREA MUSCLES

Collectively the muscles of the groin area are responsible for stabilizing the hip joint / vertebral column, preventing limb abduction / paddling

and moving the hind limb forward:

1) Adductors [longus / magnus / brevis], gracilis and pectineus. These originate from various locations on underside of pelvis and insert on the lateral lip of the femur, cranial border of the tibia and the popliteal surface of the femur respectively.

2) Iliopsoas muscles (psoas major and the iliacus). These arise from the under-side of the lumbar spine and the inner side of the pelvis and innervate on the lesser trochanter of the femur.

COMMON ISSUES THAT CAN CONTRIBUTE TO AN INJURY OF THESE MUSCLES

Athletic activities:

• Dogs that do not possess the strength to continuously perform jump heights or activities

• Lack of general fitness - Infrequently active dogs that suddenly becoming more active - ‘weekend warriors’

• Repetitive strain - Participation in the same repetitive activity without performing any cross-training activities or different dogs. I.e., dogs that only perform Flyball activities

• Weakness in the core muscles, specifically in their lower back and pelvic region

• Young dogs asked to perform too many jumping or stressful activities before growth plate closure and skeletal maturity

Conformation / grooming factors

• Dogs with too long of nails in the rear legs

• Long backed dogs

by Bobbie Lyons CCFT, FP-MTI, Cert CF and Alan Gardner PgD A. Phys, MDip, DipMgmt, IAAT, ASSVAP


Orthopedic conditions:

• Arthritis of the hips

• Cruciate disease or previous cranial cruciate repairs

• Hip dysplasia

• Slipped hocks

Neurological issue

• Diagnosed or undiagnosed causing a tightness or restriction in the groin area.

EXPERIENCE BASED REHABILITATION PROTOCOLS

Therapeutic Ultrasound coupled with massage, stretching (iliopsoas) / soft tissue release (adductor group) are particularly suitable modalities for these types of strains and muscle tension.

Ultrasound (sound waves) are a form of mechanical energy, which is transferred to the tissues through dissipation and attenuation. This results in both thermal (accelerating biological catalysts, microcirculation and metabolic biochemical reactions within a cell) and non-thermal effects. The latter include cavitation, acoustic streaming, and standing waves. These produce permeability changes in cell membranes, alters rates of ion diffusion and stasis of cells in blood vessels at pressure nodes.

The therapeutic benefits of these factors are to;

• Help break down scar tissue

• Re-orientate collagen fibers

• Improve tensile strength of the tissue

We generally plan for six sessions of 5 minutes, experience shows that full benefits are usually achieved with this protocol. The intensity applied will depend on whether the injury is acute or chronic. Generally, the ultrasound (with application of suitable gel) can be applied directly to the areas in question without clipping, as they typically are not covered with much fur. However, if hair is prevalent on a specific patient, clipping would be recommended to reduce energy loss.

Stretching should form a part of any performance dog’s training and physical maintenance

continued overleaf

Massage increases blood flow and oxygen supply, aids removal of waste products and mobilizes adhesions. The techniques employed are largely dictated by the muscles in question. The experiences outlined below are employed after suitable warming of the muscles.

The iliopsoas muscles are difficult to palpate and are a potentially sensitive area. These factors, coupled with the severity and chronicity of the injury influence using deep friction massage (using the index fingers to break down any scar tissue) and / or trigger point application to reduce sensitivity.

For the adductors, the tension in the muscles is best reduced by applying compression (all muscles in group) and kneading (particularly pectineus) techniques.

Stretching improves flexibility by increasing the number of sarcomeres and alters muscle sensory feedback. Canine stretches for the iliopsoas (hip extension coupled with slight rotation of the rear limb) and adductors (abducting the hind limb, while maintaining a straight plane of movement) are well documented. Additionally, for the adductor stretch, applying pressure [STR technique] particularly targets this area.

The authors advise that stretching is continued into the strengthening and maintenance stages as it should form a part of any performance dog’s training program. Both static stretching and active range of motion movement techniques applied to all the main muscle groups is recommended.

Strengthening and Return to WorkDuring the rebuilding process, it is important to increase flexibility or decrease tightness in the upper hind limb muscles. The reason is that if the hind limb muscles are tight – generally it will cause the Iliopsoas to work harder to stabilize the animal’s movement. This can be done using cavalettis in conjunction with the manual static stretching and active range of motion outlined above.

Core Muscles. The dogs core muscle group needs to be strong and flexible before returning to full activity. The “core” is defined as the abdominal muscles and muscles along the lumbar spine.

The Iliopsoas connects and is part of the core at lumbar vertebrae L2-L7. When the “core” is weak, movement will cause the dog to overuse the Iliopsoas (and other muscles) which will contribute to injury.


RECOMMENDED EXERCISES (Gross / Lyons)

Quality over quantity is an important factor in the early stages of strengthening following muscular injury. If the dog is returned to activity too quickly, re-injury is highly likely.

Gentle weight-shifting - Encourages the use the affected limb. While the dog is standing on a flat surface, ask him / her for a front paw to shift-weight to the diagonal rear leg.

Cavaletti Training (Using six poles) - Place the cavalettis two body lengths apart. The height of the poles should be just over hind foot (1-2” [2.5 – 5.0 cm] in most cases) – NEVER over hock height. The dog should be at a trot and repetition should typically be done to exhaustion. When the dog starts repeatedly hitting the poles or refuses the exercise, this is the sign to stop.

Crawling under cavaletti poles – Poles should be set so that the dog can crawl under with his sternum as close to the ground as possible. Each limb should rotate forward individually. No “frogging” out of the hind legs should be accepted.

Tugging - During the healing process, begin tugging when the dog has not exhibited lameness for at least three weeks, and can stretch without restrictions. The dog should also be comfortable placing most of their weight on the affected limb while challenged on balance equipment.

This exercise should initially only be carried out for a few minutes, wait 24 hours to assess if there have been any problems, then continue to progress a minute or so each day. Place the tug at the dog’s spine height or lower to encourage a weight shift into the rear while the dog is pulling. It is a good strengthening exercise for the back or caudal musculature, but also an eccentric stress so caution needs to be exerted.

Balance exercises on all fours – the dog should be able to hold a 4-legged stance on a peanut, wobble board, or rocker board for at least 15 seconds without shifting weight off the affected limb.

CANINE GROIN MUSCLES

Cavalettis can be used for flexion, strengthening and stretching

“If the hind limb muscles are tight, it may cause the Iliopsoas to work harder to stabilize movement. Therefore, improving

flexibility in those muscles is important”


It is worth noting that most dogs cannot perform this exercise and there is a temptation to push them too fast and miss the type 1/slow twitch muscle action.

A neutral position is recommended – standing equally balanced. – it is difficult for most handlers to get this in a neutral stance or correct posture. Start with 15 seconds and repeat 5 to 10 times, twice a day. Weight shifting and head movements can be added.

EXERCISES TO AVOID!

Swimming should be avoided - Until the area is almost completely healed. Swimming focuses more on flexion than walking in water, and initially, too much flexion will aggravate the healing area. In addition, since most iliopsoas injuries include some lower back involvement, the swimming motion may cause problems to that area.

Swimming is one of the last activities a dog is returned to with an iliopsoas injury and then it should be done cautiously. Diving off a dock or jumping in to the surf are activities that need to be avoided until the area is healed.

SUMMARY

Strains of the groin muscles are not uncommon in performance dogs with arguably Iliopsoas injuries being one of the leading causes of soft tissue

injury in canine athletes today.

Diagnosing an injury early can mean the difference between;

• An acute injury possibly taking less time to heal.

• A chronic injury that develops scar tissue/lesions that impairs the healing process.

Typically, these types of injuries can take 2 to 12 months to heal (depending on severity of injury and if the injury is acute or chronic).

Following diagnosis by the suitable qualified professional, conservative treatment should be carried out in conjunction with an experienced rehabilitation team, particularly because these soft tissue injuries are highly susceptible to re-injury. The treatment protocol will involve rehabilitation and strengthening exercises, taken during the relevant stages of the healing process. When the dog has returned to work, the owner should consider continuation of strengthening and stretching exercises. Finally, a concern is that handlers can be in a hurry for their dog to return to activity and do too much too fast. The rehabilitation team can guide the owner and help to avoid this.

We hope this experience based article has outlined potential protocols which practitioners and owners can use as a reference for rehabilitation and strengthening of similar injuries.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The authors would like to thank the following for allowing us to use the following information in preparation of this article.

Gross / Lyons - Quoted from online class and adapted for this article - Enigma of the Iliopsoas – classroom.daisypeel.com – co-taught by Bobbie Lyons, CCFT, FP-MTI, Cert CF and Dr. Debbie Gross.

Lawrence - Personal communication on the potential mechanisms of groin muscle injuries, Katie Lawrence, V. Phys MASSVAP, Justo Development Ltd.

AUTHORS

Bobbie Lyons CCFT, FP-MTI, Cert CF has eleven years of experience training handlers and their performance dog’s safe canine fitness practices. She obtained this knowledge by consulting with the leading veterinarians, rehabilitation specialist, and canine PT’s to ensure proper position and technique to maximize the benefits of each exercise. Bobbie has completed the FitPAWS/University of Tennessee Certified Canine Fitness Trainer Program and is a FitPAWS Master Trainer “Program Instructor”. She has also completed the Certificate Canine Fitness program through the Companion Animal Science Institute.www.pawsitive-performance.combobbie@pawsitive-performance.com

Alan Gardner PgD A. Phys, MDip, DipMgmt, IAAT, ASSVAP. Alan is an animal physiotherapist based at Hawksmoor, Nuneaton in the UK. He specializes in rehabilitation of performance dogs. As an international Agility competitor, he is ideally placed to understand the training regimes and potential injuries of performance dogs. At the Hawksmoor practice, there is a GAIT4DOG gait analysis treadmill which is exceptionally good for evaluating imbalances in pressure distribution of the canine limbs.

Balancing on all four limbs should be carried out in the neutral position


AN industry in turmoil, what should we do? New Registers, new “gold standards”, new divisions, or is it just history

repeating itself?

Whilst groups have formed to find a solution to move forward as one, sadly not all have included all the associations and training routes, therefore it seems to be divisive and not inclusive.

An “industry-led initiative” leaving behind and excluding the vast majority of the industry is a contradiction in terms. Meanwhile the other groups are both working hard behind the scenes for an all-inclusive register, to include therapists that put animals first in both study and practice. It is a work in progress, which continues apace.

‘Grand-parenting’ is the usual method of being inclusive of the current workers of an industry whilst moving

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the industry forward. We need to find the most sensible way to include the history of our profession and continue to improve the standards, and of course avoid the possible litigation that has in the past plagued similar

progression in other industries.

Without the past there would be no future. We cannot exclude the people who made the industry what it is today. Part of being inclusive is to include the past.


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