Importance of Nutrition During Recovery and Physical Rehabilitation

This is my dog Ripley, he passed away in 2016 at the age of 15 ½. He had two major cruciate surgeries-(TPLO’s) one at age 7 and then again at 10.

At the time, I thought that simply being on a raw diet, with additional veggies and a glucosamine supplement was adequate nutrition and I focused on his recovery with the physical aspects- underwater treadmill sessions, physiotherapy and acupuncture.

I want to share some nutritional advice that I wish I had known back when Ripley was recovering. I can’t stress enough how important a personalized and balanced diet is during a time of recovery and rehab.

I know now that Ripley’s commercial raw diet wasn’t balanced and lacked some important vitamins and minerals.

• Your dog’s activity level is going to drop significantly and simply cutting back their current diet could affect overall nutrient status. Less food= less nutrients.

• By tailoring a diet for your dog, we can use nutrient dense foods and high biological value protein all while ensuring there is no weight gain

• Tissue repair processes are dependent on synthesis of collagen. Nutrients like Vitamin D, Magnesium, Manganese, Zinc and the B Vitamins all play significant roles

• Food sources of Vitamin C to help with collagen synthesis are important

• Stress and medications can impact nutrient status and absorption

• Ensure an optimal essential fatty acid ratio to help with inflammation

• Although some inflammation is needed for repair, we want to ensure the diet contains plenty of antioxidants and avoid contributing to excess inflammation.

All commercial diets can be improved on with targeted additions of fresh foods and potential supplements but don’t underestimate the importance of a balanced base diet – raw or cooked. Providing proper amounts of vitamins and minerals means your dog’s body is receiving what it needs for repair and optimal function.

Jody