Just like people, each dog ages differently. In general, mixed breeds and smaller dogs tend to live longer than purebreds or larger dogs. Dogs less than 20 pounds may not seem to show any signs of age until they’re around 12, 50-pound dogs around 10, while larger dogs begin to show their age between 7 to 9 years old. As a general rule, a dog who is 7 years or older should be considered middle to senior aged.

Why would you want to be concerned about your dog’s core muscles? Because dogs rely on their core muscles to control their body when jumping, turning, and running. Ensuring your dog’s core muscles are strong can reduce and prevent injuries. Whether you have a performance dog or a pet, core strength is essential. Below is a video of Emma…

Degenerative myelopathy, or DM, is a disease of the spinal cord in dogs that is normally contracted between the ages of 8 and 14. DM is primarily seen in German Shepherds but other large breed dogs can also be affected. DM first occurs in one hind limb and then moves to the other side.  The…

This past Saturday we attended a great workshop in Ocala taught by Liz McGuire, a physical therapist for humans and someone who works with dogs for injury prevention and sports specific conditioning. While the primary focus of the workshop was on canine athletes, the techniques we learned can be applied to any dog to help keep them in…

Although I think most people are familiar with dysplasia, I thought it would be good to review what it is.  Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are the common terms used to describe the abnormal development of the respective joints. Both hip and elbow dysplasia are inherited conditions.  Hip dysplasia is due to abnormal looseness between…

In the last month or so, we’ve had calls from several people who unfortunately we were not able to help. One was a dog that was morbidly obese and as a result had heart issues. Another had a degenerative disease that had progressed to the point of hind end paralysis and loss of bladder and…

Aromatherapy is often used by human therapists to help their clients relax, relieve stress, and encourage health and well-being. But what about your animals?

Rocky’s Retreat is pleased to announce that our canine health and fitness study is underway! We now have 2 dogs in the study! Only 98 to go!!!

Rocky’s Retreat is pleased to announce the official launch of our landmark study to improve the health and fitness of dogs.

When you child is in pain, there’s no mistaking it – you know it. But what about your dog? How do you know when your dog is in pain?

We are the only Orlando dog boarding and Orlando doggie day care center that has an indoor heated pool for dogs. See it for yourself by scheduling a tour!

Rocky's Retreat | 2826 Shader Rd. Orlando FL 32808 | info@rockysretreat.com | (407) 295-3888