Hidden Pain: What My Dog’s Physio Taught Me About Detecting Injury & Supporting Long‑Term Mobility (Copy)
I’m grieving a part of Jayce’s past I never knew existed.
A few weeks ago I booked a canine physiotherapy appointment after noticing Jayce licking one shoulder more than usual. Licking can be a subtle sign of pain in dogs, especially stoic breeds like greyhounds, so I trusted my gut and scheduled a “just‑in‑case” check‑up.
I walked in expecting reassurance.
I walked out with a plan to manage an old torn hamstring no one had ever reported.
Below are the three biggest lessons that appointment taught me, plus the actionable steps I’m taking to keep Jayce happy, strong, and mobile as he ages.
Lesson 1: Dogs Can Have Sore or Tight Muscles Without Obvious Pain Signals
Dogs are hard‑wired to mask weakness; it kept their ancestors alive in the wild. That means they can experience muscle strain, joint stiffness, or even ligament tears while still racing around the yard or zooming up your hallway.
Key takeaway: Don’t wait for a limp or yelp before you consider dog rehab or a physio visit.
Lesson 2: Pain Shows Up in Subtle Behaviour Changes
Jayce never whined or slowed down. Instead, his physio pointed out:
Lying on one specific side
Muscle twitching when palpated
Mild muscle wastage in the opposite shoulder (a classic sign of favouring one side)
These micro‑behaviours are easy to dismiss as “quirks.” Now I know they’re powerful clues.
Lesson 3: Old Injuries Can Hide in Plain Sight—Even After 55 Recorded Races
The physio felt a small dip along Jayce’s right hamstring: scar tissue from an old tear. Nothing in his racing history explains it. Did the injury happen during a sprint? In early training, where oversight is looser? I may never know, but the damage is real, and untreated pain changes how a dog moves for life.
Our Rehab & Prevention Plan
At‑home massage therapy using the techniques demonstrated by our physio
Fortnightly dog physio sessions, progressing to dry needling or hydrotherapy if needed
Strength‑building walks on varied terrain and low‑impact core exercises
Regular monitoring of muscle tone, gait, and any renewed licking or favouring
Why This Matters for All Dog Parents
Early intervention means better long‑term mobility, especially for senior dogs.
Canine rehabilitation supports joint health, delaying arthritis and reducing injury risk.
Understanding signs of pain in dogs empowers you to advocate for your pet—because they won’t always tell you outright.
Call to Action
If something feels off, even just a little, trust your instincts. Book that check‑up. Your dog’s future comfort might depend on it.
Save this post for your next vet or physio visit, share it with another dog lover, and drop a comment: have you ever uncovered a hidden injury in your pet?
