PetAbility Podcast

How do you know when a dog will truly benefit from a brace? Can a CCL brace for dogs replace surgery? What role does a dog hock brace play after an Achilles tendon injury? In Part 2 of our conversation with canine physical therapist Caroline (Carrie) Adrian, BS, MSPT, PhD, tCPT, we turn our attention to hind limb injuries and conditions and the growing role of canine orthotics in veterinary rehabilitation for the pelvic limb.
We begin with a brief review of orthoses for the front limb, trunk stabilization and pelvic/hip support devices before diving into some of the most common indications for hind limb orthoses. Carrie shares how custom orthotic devices can protect healing tissues, improve function, reduce pain, and support mobility in dogs recovering from injury, managing chronic conditions, or requiring long-term assistance.
Just as importantly, we discuss why quality matters. Not all braces are created equal, and poorly designed, poorly fitted, or copycat products may fail to provide appropriate support—or even interfere with healing. Orthoses should always be selected based on a sound diagnosis, patient-specific goals, and careful follow-up.
In This Episode:
Review of trunk support and hip stabilization options
When is a brace the right choice—and when is it not?
What can orthoses realistically accomplish?
Conservative management with orthoses versus surgery
The importance of custom design, fit, and follow-up care
Potential complications from poorly fitted devices
Why rehabilitation exercises remain essential alongside bracing
The risks of knockoffs, copycat devices, and inadequate support
Skin management and monitoring during orthosis use
Pelvic Limb Topics Covered
Trunk, Pelvis & Hip (or coxofemoral joint)
Review of trunk stabilization devices
Support for hip dysplasia, weakness, and neurologic conditions
The role of pelvic support in dogs with mobility deficits
How garments facilitate posture and why posture matters for function
Stifle (Knee)
Cranial cruciate ligament disease (CCL/ACL injuries)
Three basic choices of care
Functional bracing following injury or surgery
Why bracing won't help medial patellar luxation (MPL) 
Meniscal considerations
Matching the orthosis to the individual patient
Setting realistic expectations for outcomes
Tarsus (Hock or ankle)
Achilles tendon injuries
Graduated Flexion Orthoses (GFO) the balance between allowing appropriate tissue stress to augment healing while protecting healing tissue from reinjury
Orthosis Management
Skin care and pressure point monitoring
Importance of proper fit and ongoing adjustments
Gradual acclimation to brace use - the schedule
Regular reassessment as healing progresses
Key Takeaways
Braces are medical devices—not one-size-fits-all solutions.
Proper diagnosis and custom fitting are critical for successful outcomes.
High-quality canine orthotics can improve mobility, comfort, and healing.
Poorly designed or improperly fitted braces may delay recovery or cause additional problems.
Rehabilitation remains an essential part of every bracing program.
Find Dr. Adrian at CanineIQ.net.
Her email is Info@CanineIQ.net
Companies and products mentioned during this episode:
DogLeggs
Hero Braces
Thera-Paw
WiggleLess®
HipLign
Whether you're a veterinary rehabilitation professional, veterinarian, technician, student, or devoted pet owner, this episode offers practical guidance on how orthotic devices can help improve mobility, function, and quality of life for canine patients.
Thanks for listening to PetAbility Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues and fellow animal rehabilitation enthusiasts.
Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...

When is a brace the right choice? What can it realistically accomplish? And when might it actually hinder recovery? Caroline (Carrie) Adrian, BS, MSPT, PhD, tCPT (Canine Physical Therapist), helps us answer these questions and much more.
We begin our two-part series on veterinary orthoses and bracing by focusing on the thoracic limb (front leg), trunk & pelvis/hip. We discuss the principles behind orthotic devices, common indications, clinical decision-making, and the importance of selecting the appropriate device for each patient.
From shoulder instability to carpal hyperextension injuries, we explore how orthoses can improve function, protect healing tissues, reduce pain, and help dogs return to activity while avoiding common pitfalls.
In This Episode:
What is the difference between a brace, orthotic, and orthosis?
Goals of orthotic management versus immobilization
Conservative management +/- orthosis versus surgery
Patient selection: Which dogs are good candidates?
The role of canine physical rehabilitation alongside bracing
Why custom fitting and follow-up evaluations matter
Thoracic Limb Topics Covered
Shoulder
Medial shoulder instability (MSI in dogs)
The controversy surrounding hobbles and when they may—or may not—be appropriate
Elbow
Limited indications for elbow orthoses
Potential use in osteoarthritis to diminish the load
A lot of unknowns and potential for the elbow
Carpus (Wrist)
Carpal hyperextension injuries
Working and sporting dogs
Purpose of carpal wraps and performance support
Trunk Stability & Core Support
Benefits of trunk stabilization devices
Supports for hip dysplasia and Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) with video on our YouTube channel
Key Takeaways
Braces are tools—not cures—and work best as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.
Correct diagnosis is essential before selecting an orthotic device.
Proper fit and regular reassessment are critical to avoid complications such as skin irritation, pressure sores, or altered gait mechanics.
Rehabilitation exercises remain an important component of recovery, even when a brace is being used.
Coming Next: Part 2
This conversation continues in our next episode, where we'll shift our focus to the pelvic limb (back leg), including:
Trunk support and hip bracing review
Stifle (knee) injuries and cranial cruciate ligament disease
Medial patellar luxation
Tarsal (hock, ankle) injuries and orthotic options
Achilles tendon injuries and Graduated Flexion Orthoses (GFO)
Functional bracing for recovery and long-term management
Skin management with orthosis use
Whether you're a veterinary rehabilitation professional, veterinarian, technician, student, or devoted pet owner, Part 2 will continue exploring how orthotic devices can help improve mobility and quality of life for canine patients.
Find Dr. Adrian at CanineIQ.net.
Companies with products mentioned during this episode:
DogLeggs
Hero Braces
Thera-Paw
Wiggleless
HipLign
Thanks for listening to PetAbility Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues and fellow animal rehabilitation enthusiasts.
Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...

What happens when veterinary professionals take healthcare directly into the communities that need it most?
In this episode of PetAbility Podcast, we're joined by Marilyn Jerome, LVT, MS who shares her experience helping establish and operate low-cost wellness clinics throughout all five boroughs of New York City while working with the ASPCA. These clinics provided essential preventive and wellness care—including vaccines, spay/neuter services, nail trims, and more—to thousands of pets whose families might otherwise have gone without veterinary care.
Marilyn takes us behind the scenes to explain how these large-scale community clinics worked, who they served, and why veterinary nurses were at the heart of their success. From patient flow and anesthesia support to client education and compassionate care, this conversation highlights the incredible impact veterinary technicians and nurses make every day—especially in underserved communities.
Whether you're a veterinary professional, shelter worker, or pet owner who believes every animal deserves access to care, this episode offers an inspiring look at one model that has improved countless lives.
In This Episode You'll Learn
 How the ASPCA's free and deeply discounted wellness clinics  operated 
 What services were offered and why preventive care matters 
 How families qualified for affordable veterinary services 
 The essential role veterinary nurses and technicians played before, during, and after each clinic 
 The logistical challenges of providing high-volume veterinary care 
 Lessons learned from serving diverse communities across New York City's five boroughs 
 Why improving access to veterinary care strengthens both animal welfare, the human-animal bond, and society at-large
 Marilyn's advice for veterinary professionals interested in community medicine and outreach 
Why This Conversation Matters
Preventive veterinary care is one of the most effective ways to keep pets healthy—but for many families, access remains a significant challenge. Community wellness clinics help bridge that gap by providing affordable services that prevent disease, reduce suffering, and keep pets with the people who love them.
As Marilyn explains, none of this happens without skilled veterinary nurses who coordinate patient care, educate families, assist veterinarians, and keep high-volume clinics running safely and efficiently.
This episode is a reminder that expanding access to veterinary care isn't just about medicine—it's about compassion, teamwork, and meeting people where they are.
Enjoyed this episode?
Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow veterinary professionals, animal welfare advocates, and pet lovers. Your support helps us continue bringing conversations that improve mobility, recovery, and quality of life for pets everywhere.
PetAbility Podcast — Helping pets live healthier, happier, and more mobile lives.
Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...

What if the cause of a dog's chronic pain, gait abnormalities, weakness, or unexplained mobility challenges isn't orthopedic at all?
In this episode of PetAbility Podcast, hosts Chris Cranston, MPT, CCRP, and Cathy Symon, CVT, CCRP, CHPT, explore the often-overlooked condition known as Tethered Cord Syndrome (TCS) with pet physical therapist and rehabilitation expert Amie Hesbach. TCS occurs when the spinal cord is abnormally restricted, creating tension on the nervous system that can affect movement, comfort, and overall quality of life.
Because the symptoms can mimic a variety of orthopedic, neurologic, and behavioral (think anxiety!) conditions, many affected dogs may go undiagnosed for years. Amie shares her insights into recognizing the subtle signs of TCS, the challenges of obtaining an accurate diagnosis, and the treatment and rehabilitation options available to help these dogs live more comfortable, functional lives.
Whether you're a veterinarian, rehabilitation professional, trainer, or devoted dog owner, this conversation will help you better understand a condition that may be hiding in plain sight.
In This Episode
What Tethered Cord Syndrome is and how it affects the canine nervous system
Why TCS is frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed
Common signs and symptoms that should raise concern
Conditions that TCS can mimic
How TCS is diagnosed and why diagnosis can be challenging
Current treatment options and the role of rehabilitation
Practical advice for owners seeking answers for dogs with chronic mobility issues
The importance of advocacy, awareness, and early recognition
Key Takeaway
Tethered Cord Syndrome may be uncommon, but awareness matters. By recognizing the signs early and pursuing appropriate diagnostic evaluation, owners and professionals can help affected dogs receive the care and support they need to achieve their best possible quality of life.
You may reach out directly to Amie by email at AmieHesbach@gmail.com or via her website: EmpowerPhysio.
Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...

Patellar Luxation Reimagined: Shifting the Treatment Paradigm with Dr. David Dycus
Patellar luxation is one of the most commonly diagnosed orthopedic conditions in dogs—but are we thinking about it all wrong?
In this episode of the PetAbility Podcast, we revisit this familiar condition through a very different lens with veterinary orthopedic surgeon David Dycus, DVM, MS, CCRP, DACVS-SA. Rather than focusing on the basics of diagnosis and grading, Dr. Dycus shares emerging insights that challenge conventional thinking about what truly drives patellar instability and dysfunction - and the profound arthritic changes that this alignment mismatch may lead to over time -  by treating each case individually.
Together, we discuss:
 What are the limitations of the traditional patellar luxation treatment model  
 Why eliminating grading of patellar luxation offers a broader perspective
How alignment of the proximal limb (femur) and distal limb (tibia) affects patellar stability and why 3D imaging via CT scan is key
 How biomechanics and functional movement are reshaping treatment   considerations
 How surgical decision-making is evolving through a patient-specific approach
 How the shift toward more non-traditional surgical corrections is resulting in   better short-term and long-term prognosis
 Why collaborative care, rehabilitation & conditioning are more vitally important for best outcomes
 The future of patellar luxation management in veterinary medicine
This episode is ideal for veterinarians, rehabilitation professionals, veterinary students, breeders, trainers, and dedicated pet owners interested in the future of canine orthopedic care. 
If you thought patellar luxation was “just a minor knee problem,” this conversation may completely change your perspective.
Click for more information about Dr. Dycus and his practice, Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics. Follow Dr. Dycus on Instagram and Facebook.
Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...