What is dog rehabilitationa nd phsical therapy?
Dog rehabilitation and physical therapy is a set of exercises, examinations, and physical modalities designed to help dogs recover from injuries.
Dr. Rebecca McIntosh
Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital
How can rehab and physical therapy improves the health and wellbeing of my dog?
Usually, we use rehab and physical therapy after an injury, illness, or surgery, but it can also be used for any dog who is losing muscle mass or has mobility issues. The goal is to strengthen muscles and provide support.
What are some injuries that would benefit from rehabilitation and physical therapy?
Rehabilitation and physical therapy can benefit a variety of conditions, including knee problems in larger dogs, acute injuries, arthritis, chronic injuries, and progressive diseases.
How will a veterinarian decide if rehab or physical therapy is right for my dog?
A veterinarian will determine if rehab and physical therapy are appropriate based on a physical exam, x-rays, and a discussion about the dog's health history. This helps identify areas of pain and decide the best treatment modality.
How do I find a rehabilitation veterinarian?
There is an association of certified rehab veterinarians, and you can search for them online. Some vets also offer acupuncture and laser therapy, which are part of the modalities of rehabilitation.
Why is it important to consult a vet early on if I notice pain or mobility problems in my dog?
Dogs often hide pain effectively, and by the time we notice mobility problems, they've likely been enduring it for a while. If you notice any change in gait or signs of discomfort, it's time to consult a vet to diagnose the source of the problem and offer effective solutions.
Will I be able to help my dog rehabilitate with physical therapy at home?
Yes, physical therapy often involves exercises and tasks that you can perform at home with your dog on a daily basis. Although you might see a vet weekly for rehab sessions, acupuncture, or laser therapy, the daily exercises are crucial for your dog's recovery.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (407) 896-0941, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram
Dog Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy - FAQs 1
Dr. Rebecca McIntosh
Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital
How will rehabilitation and physical therapy help my dog?
Depending on the dog's problem, illness, or injury, rehabilitation can help your dog by improving mobility, enhancing support of the muscles and joints, and reducing pain.
What services and modalities are at a rehabilitation clinic?
There are many things considered physical therapy and part of a physical therapy rehab clinic. These include cold laser therapy, acupuncture, and pulse electromagnetic field treatments. While most people associate rehab with a water treadmill, only about 30% of the cases we see end up using it.
What should I expect during my dog's rehab and physical therapy session?
Depending on the dog's problem and the facility you go to, typically, you'll drop your dog off, they'll work with the dog in the clinic, and then you pick your dog up at the end of the day. They will then inform you about the homework you have with stretches and exercises. You're not always present during the actual rehab portion of the day, but they'll let you know how your dog did with whatever modality they used.
Who will I be working with during my dog's physical therapy session?
Usually, there's a veterinarian and a technician assigned to your case. The veterinarian may or may not be certified in rehabilitation. They may be getting somebody in who does acupuncture and that may be somebody else. So you would technically be working with the veterinarian that is assigned to your case and then the technician who usually goes through the exercises.
What are the typical goals of dog rehabilitation?
There are many goals of rehab, but most of the time, it's to increase support, prevent muscle loss, increase muscle mass, and enhance the stability and mobility of the dog while reducing pain as much as possible.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (407) 896-0941, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram
Dog Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy - FAQs 2
Dr. Rebecca McIntosh
Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital
How does one find a rehab center for dogs?
You can find dog physical therapy and rehabilitation centers and certified rehab veterinarians online. It's recommended to search the certified rehab vets database to find a suitable veterinarian.
Could you tell us about the AARV?
AARV stands for the American Association of Rehab Veterinarians. It's a group of veterinarians who are certified in the art of physical therapy and rehabilitation for animals.
What should I look for when identifying a rehab center for my dog?
When searching for a rehab center, it's important that your veterinarian has assessed your dog and made a referral. Look for facilities that offer services suitable for your dog, such as acupuncture and water treadmills. Most importantly, ensure that the center has therapists who are certified in rehab therapy.
When should I consider taking my dog to a rehab center?
Consider rehab for your dog after an injury, an illness, surgery, or if your dog is experiencing mobility problems. In a rehab center, your dog can be evaluated and be given suitable exercises or treatment modalities, like acupuncture, laser therapy, or water treadmill therapy. These centers focus on supporting muscle health.
Do I need a referral for my dog to see a rehab veterinarian?
The requirement for a referral depends on the certified rehabber. It's important to have all of your dog's medical records for the rehabber to review and identify the exact problem. If you have any advanced diagnostic tests like CTs or MRIs, you should also bring those along. While a referral isn't always necessary, usually, if your veterinarian refers a rehabber to you, they can help you get in touch and make an appointment.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (407) 896-0941, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram