Leg Injuires

[jmann4]

I was wondering what are some ways to prevent common leg injuries like pulled muscles. I stretch my dogs back, neck, and sides and was wondering how to stretch their legs as well.

[moto1320]

I can't think of a thing that you don't already do, you're pretty much covered. Between the massage, heat pad and the stretch and warm-up you already do. If yours are docile enough to lay on their backs you could do cross over stretches with the rear legs to get the flexors, which I think would be the easiest to pull.

[TB]

I was actually just reading about a recent study(in humans) that showed that stretching does not help prevent injuries. I've heard that before, too, but it goes against a lot of anecdotal evidence that I've heard from people. Since I am a runner, it's of interest to me, and as I rarely take time to stretch, I always like to see studies that support me in not doing so I can't recall the last muscle injury I've gotten, even with big mileage, but I'm not very flexible anymore either :naughty:

[Ariel Payopay]

I was actually just reading about a recent study(in humans) that showed that stretching does not help prevent injuries. I've heard that before, too, but it goes against a lot of anecdotal evidence that I've heard from people. Since I am a runner, it's of interest to me, and as I rarely take time to stretch, I always like to see studies that support me in not doing so I can't recall the last muscle injury I've gotten, even with big mileage, but I'm not very flexible anymore either :naughty:

Yeah I seen that on the news. Stretching just makes me feel good. Haha!

[jmann4]

I massage the muscle's of the legs before any walks etc... to get the blood moving and loosing them up a little bit. Honey get's leg cramps from time to time and I know it's not pleasant.

I've asked my vet and he recommends just rubbing down the legs before and after each work out. I'll more than likely just do that until I learn more about the subject.

[barbponys]

Massage is a really good way to get the blood circulating. I massage my dogs regularly, they,re very spoiled . If I'm just doing relaxation on them they tend to fall asleep, when I do it prior to excersize it pretty vigorous to get the blood moving, they definitely know the difference! I concentrate on the shoulders, thighs and alone the spine prior to a trail ride just to make sure they are warmed up and ready to keep up with the horses.

Pat

[jmann4]

Well, I discovered some interesting stuff while looking through canine massage and exercise warm up stuff.

At night, before bed I use a gentle massage on the legs, neck and like Pat I go along the spine.

Both my dogs are more attached to me now as a result. Just a few days of gentle massage and I can see the difference in their attitudes towards me and while training they seem to be more interested in me and not on distractions. Very cool.