Fit tip – Use tug o’ war games for exercise
(thousandhoundphoto.com.au)
The tug of war game is a great exercise for pelvic limb (aka hindlimb) strengthening.
In the above photo, the dog on the RIGHT is the working dog. [The dog on the left is showing how easy it is for you to assist in this exercise!]
It is helpful, as with all rehab and exercise, if your dog knows commands & has had obedience training. For those that are concerned that the game would encourage aggressive behavior, teach your dog a signal or command for when the game is over such as “drop it” or “release”.
Word of caution: do not hold the rope near-vertical or swing it from side to side as this puts too much strain on the cervical spine (aka neck).
Tug o’ war is great addition to a pelvic limb program along with ramps and hills. It’s a super stifle exercise for the advanced stages of rehab.
