We were back at the vet yet again this week for George's first physio appointment.
Our VB and trainer had noticed that George may be experiencing some pain in his left hind leg. It's very slight and I must admit, I struggle to see it.
Then when we had his muzzle fitting appointment, they mentioned it as well.
As pain is a leading contributor to reactivity, it was worth getting it checked out. Not to mention I hated the thought of him being in pain.
The physio appointments normally take place in the 'tranquillity room' at the vet's office. But as George is pretty familiar with our VB's office now, and there is more space, we decided to have it there.
George did so well. He was pleased to see our VB who has perfected the technique of entering the room slowly and throwing treats away - George didn't even bark.
I am very grateful that our VB made herself available for the appointment to help George settle.
He had his usual stressful event med combo of Sileo and extra Clonidine and Gabapentin. He did seem more drowsy than he had with the same combo the previous week, but he wasn't wobbly.
He didn't even react to the physio who he had never met before. With treats and moving very slowly, she was able to observe and physically examine George.
She said there is some muscle loss in his left hind leg, a sign that he is favouring his right. She advised to get x-rays of his lower back and leg to check for luxating patella (thankfully she said it doesn't feel like this), an extra vertebrae (!) or anything else. It could also be due to an old injury.
Given that requires general anaesthetic, I asked if there was anything else we should do at the same time. The vet recommended full bloodwork and perhaps a dental clean. I am waiting for the quote 😬
The physio explained various exercises we can do at home to help rebuild the strength in that leg and we have access to an online portal with videos. The exercises involve walking backwards, turning while the front paws are elevated, down to stand, and sit to stand. We've made a start on these and he's been doing really well. He's so clever 😊
I was really pleased that the physio said that, apart from his leg, he is in very good condition with good muscle tone. She noted that I have done a good job with this as she imagines I must need to use a lot of treats for him to cope with the world! I was so relieved to hear this as I often feel guilty that he doesn't get enough exercise given his anxiety.
With the usual stealth (the vet clinic staff even hid a labrador behind a car so we could get out), we got out with minimal reactions. I'm so grateful for the amazing vet office staff.
We were emailed a report later that day. George was described in the report as being reactive to "the world". Whilst confronting, that is true. Some dogs are dog-reactive or people-reactive or car-reactive etc. George is pretty much reactive to the entire world.
Our VB also explained to the physio that George is "highly anxious". Again, quite confronting to hear from someone who specialises in anxious dogs but true. He is who he is. It's hard but it's not his fault.
Hopefully if we can identify and reduce his pain, he will feel less anxious and stressed.