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Canine Rehabilitation

Canine Rehabilitation is similar to “Physical Therapy” in human medicine. This field of canine rehabilitation is changing the way pets recover from injury and surgery. Rehabilitation services are ideal for dogs that have been injured, undergone surgery or who suffer from arthritis, obesity or neurological disease. By using rehabilitation techniques and modalities we can maximize your pet’s ability to recover physically while minimizing pain and improving time to recovery. Our veterinarians here at Dalton Animal Care (South) are always looking for more than just a good surgical outcome; we seek the earlier return of neuromuscular control and function through active engagement by both the rehabilitation practitioner and the pet parent. But wait, these techniques and modalities are not only being used on dogs, the concepts are also being used on cats and exotic animals as well.

Exercises We Use

There are many physical modalities and therapeutic exercises used throughout the rehabilitation process. We utilize simple modalities like heat and cold therapy, stretching, passive range of motion and therapeutic exercises. We use technologically advanced modalities like a therapeutic laser and assissi loop. Many programs include the use of land treadmills, which have many benefits for the patient. All rehab programs are tailored to the individual, and as the pet improves the programming adapts to the
progression.

Common Reasons For Prescribed Canine Rehabilitation

At Dalton Animal Care the most commonly prescribed canine rehabilitation is for the patient after a Cranial Cruciate Repair Surgery or a Patellar Surgery. We also use rehab to treat arthritis, hip dysplasia, and spinal cord injuries and degeneration. Canine rehabilitation is not only about injury recovery; it has endless possibilities for weight loss, fitness, and endurance.

Most of our Canine Rehabilitation is being done on our postoperative orthopedic and neurological cases. Dr. Jessica Bianco is a Canine Certified Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP), and she has done extensive training with several of our team members as well.

Benefits of Canine Rehab

Canine rehab is becoming an evidence-based veterinary practice. This means there is emerging evidence that veterinary physiotherapy through CCRP prescribed rehab programs provides better and quicker outcomes than typically restricted exercise routines. There are some recent studies that indicate that a 25% reduction in the weight of your pet will result is a longer life. The power of exercise to speed healing as well as the longevity of our pets is amazing!