When you decide to adopt a Tripawd, it’s so important to understand your new dog or cat’s unique capabilities and limitations. And a rehabilitation physiotherapy visit can do that!
Tripawd Fuji‘s people recently learned so much thanks to Tripawds Foundation’s Rehab Grant. The consultation, and rehab exercises is helping Fuji stay strong and love life on three legs.
See what Fuji’s people learned, and discover how you can get a free veterinary rehab evaluation for your three-legged dog or cat too.
Yes! Tri-kitties qualify for free feline rehab too. See all Tripawds who have received free rehab sessions thanks to your support.
Fuji, our 2-year-old rottweiler/German shepherd dog mix, has been a Tripawd since she was 13 weeks old (estimated).
The rescue was told that she was hit by a car, and they provided her rehabilitation after her surgery.
We adopted her at around 6 months, and by then she had completely adapted to running around with three legs (she would be almost too fast for us with four legs!).
Learning How to Help an Adopted Tripawd Stay Strong
We sought out a rehab consult to educate ourselves on how to keep her healthy and maintain overall fitness to ensure that Fuji has a good quality of life.
As a high-energy dog, we want to do whatever we can to allow her to continue participating in the activities she loves and hopefully catch any issues early on.
What We Learned at Fuji’s Rehabilitation Consultation
We went to Skylos Sports Medicine and saw Dr. Stephanie Reitz, DVM, CCRV, CVMMP, CVFT. Dr. Reitz assessed Fuji’s muscle tone and gait.
The three exercises that will help maintain muscle tone and increase core strength
We were shown 3 exercises to maintain her muscle tone and increase core strength
- Front Paws Up: we ask Fuji to step onto an elevated surface with her front paws up; 30 second holds with a short break between for 3-5 reps, 1-2 times a daily.
- Sit to Stand. Making sure that rear leg is tucked in and aligned symmetrically with her front legs; starting with 5 reps.
- Down to Sit to Stand.
We are working on performing these exercises on unstable surfaces at home (couch cushions) and outside on walks to keep things fun.
How We Can Support Fuji as She Ages
Dr. Reitz also talked about signs to look for indicating that Fuji is having some issues with her legs as well as possible weakening of her carpal joints as she ages.
Additionally, the vet provided recommendations on supplements to add to Fuji’s routine and a PEMF mat to consider.
The Visit Was So Helpful for All of Us!
The entire visit was so helpful, and the most important thing we learned is that we should continue to do exactly what we are doing – lots of movement, hikes on uneven terrain, and keeping her at a healthy weight.
We are thankful for the opportunity to learn new exercises to do at home (very helpful for cold, rainy days!) and establish rapport with a wonderful veterinary rehab team.
— Andrew and Fuji
How to Find Rehab Therapy for Tripawd Dogs and Cats
Check Out the at Home Tripawd Rehab Program
(created by veterinary rehab therapist Dr. John Waterhouse)