Clean Run - September 2011 - 46

H ip Extensionimportant stretch to perform since dogs Hip extension is an

with straighter forelimbs use their hips more to compensate for their structural weakness. The hip flexors may be stretched a few different ways. Each hip may be stretched independently with the dog standing or lying down. Note: This stretch should not be performed if the dog has back or hip dysplasia problems. The hip is easily brought back into extension, but be careful not to rotate the lumbar spine. One hand should be placed just below the front of the hip (the cranial portion of the hip or the portion facing the dog’s head). The hand will be near the dog’s groin. This hand will perform the stretching and slowly and gently bring the hip back toward the tail. The other hand is placed on the dog’s pelvic area for stabilization. Hold the stretch for 15 to 20 seconds and repeat it 3 times on each side. You may alternate from side to side or do 3 consecutive repetitions on the same side.

Hip Extension Stretch
© VIC NEUMANN

You can also perform this stretch by encouraging the dog to stand while you then lift up the dog’s front feet and place his paws on your lap. Alternatively, you can stand up with his Hip Extension Stretch over ball paws placed on your hips—this looks almost as if the dog were dancing with you. Maintain this position for about 15-20 seconds and repeat 3 times. Another method of stretching the hip flexors is by asking the dog to place his forelimbs up and over the top of an exercise ball. This position places the hind limbs in an extended position thereby stretching the hip flexors.

Core Strengthparamount importance in dogs with straight fronts. Because the dog Core strength is of

is using his trunk more than normal, his core needs to be very strong to compensate. Ball work, balance work, and disc work will help improve on core strength of the trunk. This core work assists with the stress on the dog’s back and neck. The stronger the dog’s back and core, the less likely it is that he will suffer the problems associated with a straight forelimb assembly. The compensations will continue to exist but his core strength will help decrease potential problems. Ball work should be performed initially for 10 to 14 days consistently; then it may be reduced to 3 to 4 times per week. For more details, refer to my DVD Get on the Ball Too, or my article “Get on the Ball Basics” in CR January and February 2008.

Smart Management Is Keybut so does jumping around the house, on and off Agility obviously involves jumping,

furniture, and objects in the backyard. Limiting activities at home is important, especially repetitive jumping on and off furniture. Smart management is a key component of taking care of the dog with a straighter front. As already mentioned, regular wellcare visits to the dog’s chiropractor, or massage or physical therapist are important, as well as a regular conditioning program. It is also important to understand when it is time to reduce the dog’s jump height or change competitive venues. And eventually, it is important to determine when it is time to retire the dog completely from competing and training. D Editors’ Note: We would like to thank Pat Hastings and Libbye Miller DVM for the use of the two photos and illustrations at the beginning of this article. They come from Pat's book, Structure in Action.
Dr. Debbie Gross Saunders has been involved with the treatment and conditioning of animals for over 17 years. She specializes in the treatment of the performance dog and owns Wizard of Paws Physical Rehabilitation for Animals, LLC in Colchester, Connecticut. She also has developed her own line of supplements, Dr. Saunders Select, and published numerous DVDs with Clean Run, including Get on the Ball Two. Contact her through her website at www.wizardofpaws.net. 46 Clean Run | September 11

http://www.DogAgilityUSA.com http://www.DogAgilityUSA.com http://www.wizardofpaws.net

Clean Run - September 2011

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Clean Run - September 2011