1st Edition

Physical Therapy and Massage for the Dog

By Julia Robertson, Andy Mead Copyright 2013
    224 Pages 210 Color Illustrations
    by CRC Press

    224 Pages 210 Color Illustrations
    by CRC Press

    Interest in canine massage and physical therapy has grown as greater emphasis is placed on the general fitness and agility of dogs, as pets and as sporting animals. This book details the prevention, management and treatment of movement and allied disorders. It encompasses detailed assessments, treatment programmes that involve hands-on therapy along with dynamic remedial and strengthening techniques using exercise plans.

    Following succinct discussion of the relevant canine anatomy and physiology, the authors provide chapters on each of the key topics: movement and muscles; exercise; preparation for sports performance; rehabilitation techniques; massage and physical therapy; and common relevant pathologies affecting dogs.

    Physical Therapy and Massage for the Dog is of interest to all those involved in canine welfare including veterinary practitioners, veterinary students, therapists, dog owners and dog trainers.

    Introduction to Physical Therapy and Massage, Julia Robertson and Andy Mead
    Introduction
    A brief History of Massage
    Current practice

    Anatomy and Physiology
    , Julia Robertson and Andy Mead
    Introduction
    Skeletal System
    Muscular System
    Fascia
    Nervous System
    Other Systems
    Comparative Human and Canine Anatomy

    How a Dog Moves
    , Julia Robertson
    Introduction
    Muscle placement and action
    Initiation of movement
    Development of the puppy

    Exercise and Activity Preparation, Julia Robertson and Meg Robertson
    Exercise and Conditioning
    Performance Areas and Their Stresses
    Warming Up and Warming Down
    Warm-Up and Warm-Down for the Handler

    Rehabilitation Techniques,
    Julia Robertson
    Introduction
    Exercising
    Passive movement
    Hydrotherapy

    Massage in Physical Therapy, Julia Robertson
    Introduction to Massage
    Massage Methodology
    Massage Application
    Massage Techniques
    Assessment of the Dog
    Treatment
    Contraindications for Canine Massage

    Common Diseases and Pathologies,
    Andy Mead and Julia Robertson

    Investigation of Canine Lameness
    Common Joint Diseases Causing Lameness
    Disorders of Muscles and Tendons
    Neoplasia
    Spinal Disease
    Peripheral Neurological Disease
    Glossary of Terms
    Further Reading
    Appendix - The Muscles of the Dog – Their Placement and Actions
    Index

    Biography

    Julia Robertson, Andy Mead

    "The seven chapters are supported with nicely presented coloured photographs, images and diagrams .. . This is certainly a book that anyone interested in an introduction to physical therapy and massage for the dog will enjoy."
    Veterinary Record