SMALL ANIMAL OWNERS HUB
Supporting your pet
at every stage.
Guidance on recognising pain, supporting your small pet’s development,
adapting your home environment, and knowing when to call a physiotherapist.
1Pain Recognition
Pain Recognition
Pain Signs to Watch Out For in Pets
Dogs and cats often hide pain surprisingly well, especially in the early stages. In the wild, showing weakness can make an animal vulnerable, so many pets instinctively mask discomfort until it becomes severe.
Another reason pain may go unnoticed is because changes are usually gradual. Conditions like arthritis develop slowly. Owners adapt to the pet’s “new normal” without realizing the pet has reduced activity because of pain.
For Example
“He’s slowing down because he’s old” may actually mean:
“He’s slowing down because movement hurts.”
Many people expect severe pain to mean crying, refusing food, or obvious distress. But animals can continue normal-looking behaviors while still hurting.
If you suspect pain, it’s best to contact a professional early. Subtle behavior changes are often the first clue and if identified early enough, we can usually avoid the need for surgery, illness or injury.
Have a read through the common signs of pain in both dogs and cats below. As mentioned, pain is usually masked until it is severe. If you’re noticing these changes in your pet, it’s important you get them seen as soon as you can.
Common signs of pain in dogs
Behavior Changes
- Becoming quieter, withdrawn or less social
- Irritability or aggression when touched
- Restlessness, pacing or inability to settle
- Clinginess or wanting to be left alone
Movement Changes
- Limping or favouring a leg
- Difficulty jumping, climbing stairs or getting up
- Stiffness, especially after resting
- Slower walks or reluctance to exercise
Physical Signs
- Panting when not hot or active
- Trembling or shaking
- Excessive licking of one area
- Changes in posture, such as a hunched back
- Reduced appetite
Facial Expressions
- Tense eyes or “worried” expression
- Flattened ears
- Tight mouth or lip licking
Common signs of pain in cats
Cats are especially subtle.
Behavior Changes
- Hiding more than usual
- Reduced interaction with people
- Increased irritability
- Sleeping more or changing sleeping spots
Mobility Changes
- Jumping less or hesitating before jumping
- Difficulty using stairs
- Stiff gait
- Less grooming, especially over the back or hips
Litter Box and Eating Changes
- Accidents outside the litter box
- Straining in the litter box
- Eating less or dropping food
- Weight loss over time
Physical and Facial Signs
- Squinting or partially closed eyes
- Flattened ears
- Tail tucked close
- Hunched posture
- Matted or unkempt fur
Signs that usually mean urgent veterinary attention
Difficulty breathing
Collapse or inability to stand
Crying out repeatedly
Bloated abdomen
Sudden paralysis or severe limping
Refusal to eat or drink
Signs of trauma
Pale gums or extreme lethargy
2Puppy Development
PUPPY DEVELOPMENT
Healthy growth for long-term wellbeing
One of the most common questions we’re asked is: “How can I best support my puppy’s development to help prevent injuries later in life?”
We love hearing this question because it reflects a proactive and thoughtful approach to your dog’s long-term health and wellbeing. Many owners begin researching breed-specific conditions early and want to do everything possible to support healthy growth and reduce the risk of future issues.
For Example
- Labradors, Huskies, and German Shepherds are more commonly predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia
- Pomeranians, Pugs and toy breeds are more susceptible to patella luxation
- French Bulldogs, Dachshunds, and Corgis are at greater risk of Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) and neurological degeneration
While genetic predispositions cannot always be stopped, there are many ways to support healthy musculoskeletal development during the critical growth stages of puppyhood in order to prevent or minimise the impact of these diseases later in life.
01
Feed a Balanced Puppy Diet
Choose a high-quality puppy food, ideally either raw or cooked, for the puppy’s size and breed.
- Large-breed puppies need diets specifically designed to control growth rate and reduce stress on developing joints.
- Avoid overfeeding; rapid growth can increase the risk of orthopedic problems.
- Keep body condition lean rather than “chubby.”
Common healthy signs:
- Steady growth
- Good energy
- Glossy coat
- Normal stool quality
If you’re changing foods, transition gradually over about 7–10 days. Ensure the food is adequately balanced by professionals. Some good local options in the UAE include Furchild, Paw Pots or k9 Kitchen
03
Use Safe, Age-Appropriate Exercise
Good activities:
- Short walks
- Gentle play
- Sniffing and exploration
- Basic training games
Be cautious with:
- Repetitive high-impact exercise
- Long-distance running
- Excessive jumping
- Slippery floors
Developing growth plates are still soft, especially in large breeds.
05
Start Reward-Based Training Early
Short, consistent sessions build:
- Confidence
- Communication
- Impulse control
- Trust
Helpful early skills:
- name recognition
- recall
- leash walking
- handling tolerance
- settling calmly
04
Prioritize Sleep and Rest
The early socialization period is extremely important.
Positive exposure to:
- Different people
- Sounds
- Surfaces
- Handling
- Friendly vaccinated dogs
- Grooming
- Car rides
The key is positive and gradual, not overwhelming. Early exposure to physiotherapy can be very helpful in this instance – not only will your puppy be exposed to different techniques of gentle handling, they will be relaxed and confident if they ever need physiotherapy treatments later in life. This makes sessions much more effective for a very effective recovery.
06
Keep Up with Preventive Veterinary Care
Puppies need:
- Vaccinations
- Parasite prevention
- Wellness checks
- Guidance on growth and nutrition
Regular weigh-ins help confirm healthy development and are as standard every 2 weeks as part of our physiotherapy sessions.
WHAT TO AVOID
Things people should avoid
01. Overfeeding
One of the most common mistakes.
Extra weight puts stress on:
- joints
- bones
- spinal development
- Fast growth is not the same as healthy growth.
02. Excess Calcium Supplementation
This is especially risky in large-breed puppies.
Too much calcium can disrupt normal bone development when feeding a complete commercial puppy diet.
03. Intense Exercise Too Early
Avoid:
- forced running
- repetitive fetch on hard surfaces
- long hikes
- jumping from heights
Growth plates can be damaged before they close. Please lift your puppy in and out of your car, don’t allow them to jump.
04. Unsafe Chew Items
Avoid:
- cooked bones
- items that splinter
- toys small enough to swallow
- very hard chews that can fracture teeth
05. Ignoring Subtle Health Signs
Repeated diarrhea, limping, low appetite, or poor growth should be evaluated early rather than waiting.
06. Toxic Foods and Substances
Common dangers include:
- chocolate
- grapes, raisins or dried fruits
- xylitol sweetener
- onions
- certain houseplants
- human medications
Different breeds mature at different rates. Small breeds may mature within about a year, while giant breeds can continue developing for much longer. Tailoring exercise, nutrition, and expectations to breed size helps support healthier long-term development.
3Home Adaptations
Home Environment Adaptations
Making your home safe & supportive
Creating a safe and supportive home environment can make a huge difference to your pet’s comfort, confidence, and recovery. Whether your pet is recovering from surgery, managing arthritis, or simply slowing down with age, small changes at home can help reduce pain, prevent slipping, and support mobility.
It’s important to note that if your vet has prescribed a period of crate rest following surgery, you must adhere to this protocol for safe and effective recovery but provide plenty of mental enrichment.
01. Non-Slip Flooring
Slippery floors can increase the risk of falls, injury, and joint strain, especially in older pets or those recovering from orthopaedic or spinal surgery.
We often recommend:
- Non-slip rugs or runners
- Rubber-backed mats
- Foam floor tiles
- Yoga mats in key walking areas
Helpful places to add traction include:
- Hallways
- Around food and water bowls
- Near beds
- Entryways
- Areas leading outside
02.Supportive Bedding
Orthopaedic or memory foam beds can help reduce pressure on joints and improve comfort for pets with arthritis or mobility issues.
- Choose beds with supportive cushioning
- Use low-sided beds for easier access
- Keep resting areas warm and draught-free
- Provide resting spots on each level of the home
03. Managing Stairs and Jumping
After surgery or during periods of reduced mobility, limiting stairs and jumping is often important.
Helpful options include:
- Baby gates to restrict access
- Ramps for cars, sofas, or garden steps
- Pet steps for favourite resting areas
- Keeping essentials on one level of the home
04. Feeding and Water Areas
Simple adjustments can make eating and drinking more comfortable.
Suggestions may include:
- Non-slip mats under bowls
- Easily accessible feeding stations
- Raised bowls in some cases of neck or joint discomfort
05. Safe Exercise Spaces
Pets recovering from surgery may need a calm, controlled environment to prevent sudden running, twisting, or slipping.
We may recommend:
- Using a pen or small room initially
- Blocking off slippery or unsafe areas
- Gradually increasing activity under guidance
06. Supportive Equipment
Some pets benefit from additional mobility support, including:
- Rehabilitation harnesses
- Rear support slings
- Toe grips or non-slip socks
We can advise whether these are appropriate for your pet.
07. Outdoor Safety
Outdoor areas can also be adapted to improve confidence and reduce injury risk.
Helpful changes may include:
- Non-slip decking strips
- Level pathways
- Improved lighting for older pets
- Easy-access garden routes
08. Advice for Older Cats
Cats often show mobility changes more subtly than dogs. Helpful home adaptations may include:
- Low-entry litter trays
- Steps to favourite sleeping areas
- Food and water on one level
- Easier access to windowsills or resting places
Need Advice for Your Pet?
Every pet’s needs are different. During a physiotherapy assessment, we can help identify simple home
adjustments that support recovery, improve comfort, and maintain mobility long term.
Tailored rehab plans
Evidence-based treatment
Certified physiotherapists
A few notes from our clients
