Finbarr is a 13-14 year old lurcher; we’re not sure of his exact age, but the Vet thought he was about 18 months old when he came to live with us. Finn has used his body to the full over the years, racing about as sighthounds do when they are not laying on the sofa!
When Finn was about 11 and a half, he became noticeably more stiff in his gait, and we visited the vets to see what the best course of action was to keep him comfortable. With arthritis suspected as the cause of his discomfort, we started him on Librella injections each month. However, Finn is terrified of the vets and after three months, it was apparent the injections were not making any difference. In addition, having to be injected so regularly was stressing him greatly! He doesn’t even like being touched.
Luckily, the Vet, Shelagh Tubby (now Holistic Vet Norfolk) suggested trying myotherapy, dog massage, and referred us to Helen of Dogapy Rehabilitation. It was apparent from the very beginning that Finn was going to accept Helen treating him. She took all the time he needed to let her touch him, and the fact that he was being treated in his own home, or garden if he preferred, meant he could accept the dog massage and really benefit from it. This is something he would never have done at the Vets. Now he wags his tail and greets Helen before relaxing into the treatment. Helen and I determine between us how often she needs to see him, but for the first year this treatment took the place of anti-inflammatories and kept him sound and comfortable. Now Finn is on a mild dose of anti-inflammatory, as well as YuMove, but I do feel the myotherapy (dog massage) is what has really kept him comfortable, as he is so much better after Helen’s visits.
The fact that Helen is a qualified Registered Veterinary Nurse is very comforting. She gives an honest and informed opinion on any other adjustments you can make at home for your dog, such as weight management and introducing mats and ramps to keep them safe and comfortable. She has a great way with animals (and humans) and is a pleasure to have in your home. I also have a young cross breed who recently sustained a shoulder injury. Helen worked with the Orthopaedic Team at Taverham Vets with some targeted treatment to the damaged area, and my young dog is now fully recovered. I was able to claim for the myotherapy on my insurance as part of the treatment plan. Helen works in conjunction with your Vet, sending them regular updates on your dog’s progress, so they have some extra data to help them diagnose and form a treatment plan.
I cannot recommend her highly enough and would be happy to talk to anyone who is considering this treatment for their dog.