Presented by Lauren Elliott
As our dogs age, changes in strength, mobility and physical function can gradually impact their comfort, confidence and quality of life. While slowing down is often considered a normal part of ageing, many of these changes can be positively influenced through early intervention, targeted exercise and appropriate management strategies.
This presentation will explore the importance of maintaining muscle strength and mobility throughout a dog’s life, with a particular focus on supporting our senior companions. We’ll discuss common age-related musculoskeletal changes, how to recognise early signs of discomfort or declining function, and the role of physiotherapy in managing conditions such as osteoarthritis.
Importantly, we’ll look at practical exercises and preventative strategies that owners can introduce well before their dogs reach their senior years, helping them remain active, comfortable and independent for as long as possible.
Drawing on real-life clinical examples, we’ll demonstrate how small, consistent changes can make a significant difference to a dog’s long-term physical health and wellbeing.
Learning Objectives
* Recognise common age-related changes in canine mobility, strength and function, including early signs of pain or physical decline.
*Understand why maintaining muscle strength is so important for joint health, mobility, injury prevention and healthy ageing.
*Identify practical strengthening, balance and mobility exercises that can be incorporated into a dog’s everyday routine.
*Explore preventative strategies that can be introduced earlier in life to help reduce the impact of age-related physical decline.
* Understand how physiotherapy and rehabilitation can support senior dogs with osteoarthritis, weakness and reduced mobility.
About The Presenter
Lauren graduated in Physiotherapy with honours from Melbourne University in 2001. She then completed her master's in Animal Studies through Queensland University in 2007, a 2-year concentrated program focusing on learning animal anatomy and movement patterns. She then launched Melbourne Animal Physiotherapy because of her love for Animals and for giving them a better quality of life. Laurens’ goal is to provide the best quality of care available to all small animals in Melbourne and the Geelong region, by growing an inspired team of highly skilled and caring animal therapists.
We pride ourselves on delivering high level personalised care for small animals, allowing them to achieve a better quality of life.
Outside of work, Lauren enjoys keeping fit with running, mountain biking, adventure racing and pilates and has represented Australia at the World Triathlon in 2010 and 2012.
