Canine physical therapy applies human physical therapy techniques adapted specifically for dogs. Just like humans, dogs can strain muscles, get tendonitis, break bones, tear ligaments, and require surgery – physical therapy can help with these issues and concerns. It has been proven to be extremely successful in helping older dogs increase strength and improve their longevity to live longer, healthier lives. Research has shown that canine rehab can help senior dogs age more gracefully and significantly improve their quality of life.
When beginning rehab, a comprehensive evaluation is the first thing your dog will receive. During this evaluation, a certified physical therapist identifies impairments such as joint stiffness, weakness, and range of motion limitations, including whether or not the pup has recently undergone surgery or has an injury. Communication between the physical therapist and you are important for understanding the dog’s history and reason for their injury or surgery. Canine PT and Me also works with the primary veterinarian and if applicable, the surgeon, to receive medical, surgical, and imaging records to review in advance of the appointment.
After the initial evaluation, the physical therapist can then recommend a treatment plan and begin treating your pup – SAME DAY! What’s great about Canine PT and Me is that you get an exam and the first session of rehab at the evaluation so your pup is streamlined to the road of recovery. The plans we create for your pup are individually designed for every dog with their goals and needs in mind – completely customized!
Once a pup has improved from physical therapy and has been “discharged”, doesn’t mean they can’t still benefit from additional physical therapy treatments! Canine PT and Me offers a Wellness Plan that allows dogs to continue to benefit from mobility training, stretching, hands-on work, cold laser, and progressive strengthening exercises. Each and every dog can benefit from physical therapy, regardless of whether or not they’re recovering from an injury or surgery.
~Canine PT and Me Team