Teg, a 7-year-old Springer Spaniel, has been a cherished member of his family since he was 9 weeks old. Throughout his life, he has faced numerous health challenges, frequently visiting vets and referral centres. Despite everything, Teg remains a trooper, never complaining and always charming veterinary staff with his gentle nature and big spaniel eyes.
His latest medical hurdle was a torn cruciate ligament, which required TPLO surgery in June 2024. Since August, he has been undergoing regular physiotherapy and hydrotherapy at the Canine Fitness Centre to aid his recovery. Although not a fan of clean water, he tolerates hydrotherapy – especially when rewarded with pâté!
Diagnosis and Initial Challenges
Following his TPLO surgery, Teg’s rehabilitation focused on rebuilding strength, improving mobility, and preventing further injury. His owners noticed:
- Reluctance to bear weight on his right hind leg
- Reduced muscle mass in his hindquarters
- A narrow hindlimb stance
- Occasional stiffness and discomfort after long walks
Despite these challenges, Teg’s determined spirit and enthusiastic tail wagging have never wavered. His owners were committed to giving him the best possible chance at recovery.
Treatment Plan: Physiotherapy & Hydrotherapy
Teg’s rehabilitation journey at the Canine Fitness Centre combined:
Physiotherapy
- Massage & Heat Therapy – To relieve muscle tightness and improve circulation
- Range-of-Motion (ROM) Exercises – To gently increase flexibility in his joints
- Strength Training – Using balance pads, cavaletti poles, and controlled walking exercises
- Weight-Bearing Exercises – Encouraging even weight distribution across all four limbs
Hydrotherapy: Pool & Underwater Treadmill (UWTM)
- Pool Therapy – Supported swimming sessions to build hindlimb strength with minimal joint impact
- Underwater Treadmill – Controlled walking in water to enhance weight-bearing and gait correction
- Pelvic and Stifle Support – To guide Teg’s movement and encourage proper limb use
Although initially hesitant in the water, Teg improved with patience, gentle encouragement, and plenty of treats. He gradually built confidence, showing better engagement and increased hindlimb movement over time.
Progress and Key Improvements
With regular physiotherapy and hydrotherapy, Teg has made remarkable progress:
- More confident in his movement, with a more balanced gait
- Improved hindlimb strength, reducing his reliance on his front legs
- Increased endurance, allowing for longer walks without fatigue
- Better weight-bearing on his operated leg
- Less stiffness after activity
His owner reports that Teg is now managing longer walks (some up to 6–7 miles!) and coping well. While he still shows some signs of hindlimb weakness after intense exercise, his recovery is well on track.
Maintaining Progress & Looking Ahead
Teg continues to have physiotherapy and hydrotherapy sessions, with a focus on long-term strength and joint health. His home exercise programme includes:
- Sit-to-stands to build hindlimb muscle
- Stepping on/off pavements to mimic weight-shifting exercises
- Walking through cavaletti poles to improve stride length and coordination
- Massage and stretching to maintain flexibility
Teg’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of expert rehabilitation. Despite numerous health challenges, he has embraced his recovery with enthusiasm (and a wagging tail). His journey highlights the importance of physiotherapy and hydrotherapy in supporting dogs after orthopaedic surgery.With the help of the Canine Fitness Centre team and the dedication of his owners, Teg is well on his way to getting the spring back in his step!
