Many dog owners fear the day they are told by the vet, that their energetic best friend needs strict rest for a lengthy period. While it can feel unfair, unreasonable, and even impossible, the truth is some medical conditions require rest to allow healing and recuperation.

Post-surgery or an injury may cause pain or discomfort initially, but with a good pain management protocol, your dog should be feeling back to their normal self after a few days which is great. However, they are unable to get back to their usual pursuits.

Whilst we are unable to fulfill our dog's physical needs during this time, we can increase their mental stimulation to meet their needs. 

Bring the outside in

Most dogs enjoy a stroll through the neighbourhood sniffing the bushes and grass. If they are unable to join you on a walk, pick up some things from the environment and bring them home with you.

Branches, leaves, grass, and pebbles from outside your home can be placed in a swallow box or even sprinkled in your garden if they are allowed out there. Dogs process a lot of information when sniffing. Giving them objects from outside can still allow them to explore what’s going on outside, without needing to walk there.

If your dog has doggy pals, ask your friend to collect some leaves and other small objects. from their garden to add to the sniffing box.

Trick training

Training new behaviours such as tricks can be enjoyable for both you and your dog. As well as being mentally challenging, learning together can strengthen the bond between you.

The following tricks require little movement or energy:

-       Chin rest

-       Eye contact

-       Nose touch (to hand)

-       Learning the names of individual toys

-       Stick out your tongue

Car journey 

If the vet says your dog is fine to travel in the car, why not take them for a drive?

Allow them to watch the world go by out of the window or drive to a quiet location and find a quiet spot to sit and observe in a new environment.

Scentwork 

Scentwork is hugely beneficial for all dogs. When your dog is on restricted exercise, scent work games are a great alternative, as it forces a dog to slow down to find the food or toy. Depending on the dog's exercise restrictions, you can make the search area as big or small as what is allowed. 

Change crate location

For some dogs, restricted exercise means crate or cage rest. Often dogs that have undergone spinal surgery have to be completely confined or risk post-op complications. 

When the dog is not allowed to move, the crate can! Moving the crate to different areas of your home depending on where it is the busiest, can bring joy to your dog. The crate can even be moved to a shady spot in the garden.

Massage

Have a consult with a veterinary rehabilitation consultant and find out what exercises will most benefit your dog during their healing period. Exercising or massaging the problem areas promotes healing.

Borrow a pushchair

Friends with children may have an old pushchair stored away somewhere. If your dog is small enough, ask them if you can borrow it and go for a walk around your neighbourhood. It is recommended to have one person pushing the buggy and another person standing next to it to ensure your dog doesn’t jump out.

Dogini also sells dog buggies specifically designed for dogs.

Food toys

There are an enormous amount of food toys on the market and if you have the time, plenty of DIY options too. Look for toys that dispense food easily. Lickimats, snuffle mats, Puzzle toys, and Kongs are all great options.

Movement and exercise restrictions can seem daunting but it doesn’t have to be stressful for our dogs. A few changes can enrich their lives during that time. The more they rest, the quicker they will be able to get back to normal activity levels.

Sascha Odayar is a Qualified COAPE Animal Behaviourist at Oday Vets, Centurion

Email odayvets@gmail.com