Joyful Dogs

26/05/2026

26/05/2026

Our heatwave set up - Nuala hates being dowsed, wiped, interfered with - so mini Aircon it is. Thanks to Misty Bluecollie for the recommendation..
We also have an camera to check in on her when we're not there.

18/05/2026

Did we tell you we are APDT accredited?
We have just renewed our membership for the year following the rigorous assessment last October and completing the required CPD to continue being accredited. Onwards and upwards - we keep learning!

11/05/2026

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02/05/2026

Do you have a teenage tinker? Here's a free webinar to help understand where your pup is at right now.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1JEvMPGxtT/

Secure Your Place Now

22/04/2026

If your dog would like to join the lads, drop us a line!
07563649793
www.muddybuddies.co.uk

22/04/2026

⚡️DOGS IN PAIN STILL RUN, PLAY, AND KEEP GOING⚡️

Not a week goes by without a client saying:

“But my dog can’t be in pain—they still…”
• Play ball
• Go for walks
• Do agility
• Run and play with the grandchildren
• Compete in sports
• Jump on the sofa
• Chase squirrels
• Act ‘normally’

…and this is one of the biggest misconceptions we see in canine rehabilitation.

🐾 Dogs in chronic pain often continue to perform normal activities

Unlike humans, dogs are incredibly stoic. Pain behaviours are often subtle, gradual, and easily dismissed as “just getting older” or “slowing down.”

Many dogs with musculoskeletal pain, osteoarthritis, compensatory strain, or soft tissue dysfunction will still run, play, and remain active—because movement is instinctive, routine, and often driven by adrenaline, excitement, or habit.

They do not always cry, whimper, or limp.

In fact, by the time obvious lameness appears, pain may have been present for weeks, months, or even years.

🔬 Common subtle signs of pain include:
• Slower to rise after rest
• Reluctance to jump into the car
• Hesitation on stairs
• Reduced stamina on walks
• Behavioural changes or irritability
• Changes in posture or weight shifting
• Licking joints or limbs
• Difficulty settling comfortably
• Reduced performance in sport or exercise
• “Good days and bad days”

Pain is not always loud. Often, it is silent compensation.

Early recognition matters—because chronic pain changes movement patterns, increases compensatory strain, and can significantly affect long-term mobility and quality of life.

As therapists, our job is not just to treat pain—but to help owners recognise it.

Because “they’re still playing” does not always mean “they’re pain free.”

14/04/2026

Myofascial Release in Practice – Milo’s Session

Milo came in today for treatment, providing a great visual example of how the body reflects underlying fascial tension.

In the image on the left, before treatment, you can see clear coat flicking and disruption. This is often an external indicator of fascial restriction, where the connective tissue beneath the skin has become tight, adhered, or dehydrated. These restrictions can alter movement patterns, reduce range of motion, and contribute to discomfort over time.

In contrast, the image on the right, after myofascial release, shows a much smoother coat pattern with reduced flicking. This reflects an improvement in tissue glide and fascial mobility following treatment, allowing the body to move more freely and efficiently.

How skilled bodywork helps:
Myofascial release works by applying sustained, gentle pressure to the fascial system, helping to:
• Reduce restrictions and adhesions
• Improve circulation and tissue hydration
• Restore normal movement patterns
• Support pain reduction and comfort

What to look for in your own dog:
• Coat that appears “flicked,” uneven, or changes direction abruptly
• Areas that feel tight, dense, or less mobile under the skin
• Reduced flexibility or altered gait
• Sensitivity to touch in certain regions

Why this matters:
Healthy fascia is essential for efficient, pain-free movement. When restrictions are present, they can have a wider impact on biomechanics, compensation patterns, and overall wellbeing.

Targeted, skilled bodywork can make a significant difference—not just in how your dog moves, but in how they feel day to day.

Milo was a pleasure to work with, and it’s always rewarding to see these subtle but meaningful changes following treatment 🐾

09/04/2026

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I’m well practiced with a clicker and treat delivery etc. it’s easier to do cooperative care training when the dog hasn’t already had a bad experience with handling.

BUT….. when dogs are pumped with adrenaline and cortisol they’re not going to be after a little snacky snack.

Training and shaping doesn’t have to be this formal procedure with a fancy treat pouch and a clicker.

I watched this video on reels.

The groomer called the dog insane. It was super dangerous pulled the muzzle off twice and the owner was called back to re-muzzle her dog. He WAS sedated!

I saw a terrified animal, doing what worked. Flinching and striking kept those clippers at bay for just a wee moment.

The groomer has to ensure that dog doesn’t injure itself so they withdraw for a moment.

Tricky situation. Can’t not reinforce the biting for safety reasons basically.

You could apply negative reinforcement for stillness though.

Hear me out……
Clippers appear but at a 1m distance from the dog and then they disappear again. BEFORE the dog freaks out.
Shape it, through approximations. Start where you need to, stay with the tv remote if that’s what it takes to get a foot in the door.

It might take longer, but dogs live 10-15 years and grooming is essential to that longevity.

Shaping is a process but it doesn’t have to involve 20 seasons a week with a clicker teaching chin rests and targets. (I love those btw but not always necessary for improvement). Especially when the animal cares about getting something to go away not getting snacks.

03/04/2026