We have all heard about the great sport stars seeking out a physical therapist for injuries or for surgical recovery. After a series of visits and lots of hard work, they increase their mobility, strength and flexibility. Their continued athletic success is a testament to the efficacy of this therapy.
These restorative benefits of physical rehabilitation have become widely accepted and adopted in the animal care community as well and its growth in availability to pet owners has changed the focus in many veterinary practices to include preventive care as well as curative care.
Canine rehabilitation therapy is an adaptation of human physical therapy that uses similar techniques to prevent/treat conditions resulting from injury, obesity, disease and surgery that affect a pet’s mobility. Under the supervision of a veterinarian or physical therapist certified in animal rehabilitation, a pet’s quality of life can improve and their pain decrease.
Techniques used in our physical rehabilitation include thermotherapy, cryotherapy, hydrotherapy, cold laser therapy, joint mobilization, massage, soft tissue manipulation, kinesiotaping, core strengthening, muscle building exercises and coordination exercises, and much more. Each technique is used to increase function and mobility of joints and muscles, improve overall quality of life and decrease pain in animals.
Our certified physical therapist has been a pioneer in this field and has over 18 years of veterinary medical experience behind her. Our team will design a care plan that utilizes the appropriate techniques for your pet’s individual needs and teach you to continue care, when possible, in your own home.