Dear Veterinarian,

Your client would like to enroll their dog in a Canine Fitness Zone Strength & Conditioning or Stretch the Dog! Class. Due to the potential risk of injury during any exercise program, all dogs must be screened and cleared by their veterinarian prior to beginning one of these classes.

The Strength & Conditioning Class will include a warm-up, low intensity strengthening including core stabilization, high intensity conditioning, and cool down. The class is designed for all fitness levels. If needed, we may add a bariatric fitness class in the spring.

A list of the stretches completed in Stretch the Dog! class can be seen in the book The Healthy Way to Stretch Your Dog, A Physical Therapy Approach. Our greatest concern is that clients are not accidentally stretching an unstable stifle or an unstable spine/neck.  Please note that dogs who do have instability or underlying medical issues will still be allowed to take the classes but only with your recommendations. For example, a dog may not be cleared to stretch the left hind limb but may be cleared to stretch the rest of the body.

If you have further questions or comments please e-mail sasha@caninefitnesszone.com. We look forward to helping clients teach their dogs how to be fit for the full span of their lives. Veterinarian input is always welcome as we strive to provide the highest level of quality exercise classes available.

Sincerely,

Sasha Foster, MSPT

Owner