Down on pasturns

Question
Follow up question

You mentioned "stepping more on the pads of his feet".

How do I get him to step more on the pads.  Is there an excerise I can do with him or maybe messaging the feet in a certian way.

Thank you
Answer -
Hello Lousie -

I know this may sound very silly but the best help for dogs and horses who are down on their pasterns is cutting back the toe nails or hooves for a horse.

By keeping the nails short (not to the point of bleeding)it will help the dog to stand higher on the pads of is feet.

Many vets (holistic and conventional) have methods of bracing which can, at times, in the long run actually cause injury  in muscles and tendons of the legs. When these muscles, tendons and bones are forced, especially t a young age, to go against there natural concept they become strained.

Try keeping the nails short and working with your pet on stepping more on the pads of his feet. This can be a common problem but can be easily remedied.

I hope this information has helped you and your pet. I wish all the best in the show ring and hope his recovery will be strong.

If you are interested in natural and herbal remedies for human and animal concerns please contact me at wintersaurora@yahoo.com and I will be happy to assist you. I also offer a catalogue of specially formulated herbal remedies which I can send to you as well. My products are also available online at www.localharvest.org.

Thank you and best wishes to you and your pet.

Sincerely,
Sharon Hubbs, AHG
Certified Natural Health Consultant & Herbalist

Answer
Hello Louise -

By trimming his toe nails back he should naturally step more forward on the pads of his feet, it will be a natural reaction.

As far as excercises, the only thing you can really do is have him stand stright and forward when you are working with him on the leash.

You pet is young and a lot of times they will grow out of being down on their pasterns. As their bones and muscles develop some animals will strenghten and will stand higher. Mastiff's are big dogs and your pet should, hopefully, with time mature out of this problem.

Hope I helped a little more.

Have a wonderful day -

Sincerely,
Sharon Hubbs, AHG
Certified Natural Health Consultant & Herbalist