Cavaletti Rails, High-Stepping, or Obstacle Course
This exercise is prescribed for improving cardiovascular endurance, proprioception, and active ROM and muscular strength in all limbs.
To perform this exercise, place 6 cavaletti rails, spaced as far apart as the dog’s shoulder height. The bars’ height should be based on the dog’s size and the joints targeted for improving flexion. For example, setting the bars at the height of the dog’s carpi can target stifle and tarsal flexion. The bars can be set at the level of the elbow for targeting elbow flexion. Walk the leashed dog slowly so that it steps over each rail with individual limbs rather than hopping. Walk back and forth 3 times. Work up to 6 times back and forth.
For an added challenge, change the height of the rails and add diagonal positions (one side of a rail higher than the other). For an advanced challenge, place the cavaletti rails on a hill.
If cavaletti rails are not available, walk the dog through tall grass so that each hind limb is lifted and flexed at the hip, elbow, and carpus, or create an obstacle course with objects the dog will not step on (eg, brooms, water noodles, pillows, toys). Walk the dog over the course so that it must high step or pick up its legs fully to move over the objects. Walking up and down hills and stairs can also improve range of motion.2,3
Conclusion
While therapeutic exercises are an important part of the compressive treatment of osteoarthritis, it is crucial that a full orthopedic examination be performed by a veterinarian prior to recommending these exercises. The veterinarian should rule out other causes of lameness and pain, including bone and nerve-root tumors and neurologic disease, and ensure that pain is well managed. Training and certification in canine rehabilitation therapy will enable interested veterinarians and technicians to provide addition manual and exercise therapies for dogs with osteoarthritis.