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If your dog has suffered an injury or has difficulty moving around due to a health condition, rehabilitation and physical therapy are certainly worth considering to help restore their strength and physical abilities. Dog rehabilitation and physical therapy may be the secret to reducing your pup’s pain and improving their mobility. At Towne Center Animal Hospital and Pet Hotel, we are committed to doing whatever we can to ensure your dog has a happy and healthy life. Our team of experienced and trained veterinarians will assess your dog’s unique condition and gauge whether rehabilitation and physical therapy is the best course of action. Furthermore, we want to empower pet owners by giving them all the information they need to understand the benefits of rehabilitation and physical therapy so they can be confident that their furry friend is receiving the very best care.
What is Dog Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy?
Dog rehabilitation and physical therapy is a treatment method used for alleviating pain, improving function, and promoting the overall health of dogs suffering from various conditions or recovering from injuries and surgeries. These practices focus on addressing the root causes of a dog's mobility and functioning issues, helping them regain their strength, range of motion, and overall health. Primarily, canine rehabilitation and physical therapy aim to restore a dog's functionality, improving their quality of life. However, even dogs with chronic conditions such as arthritis may benefit from these therapies, as they can help ease pain and address mobility issues.
How can Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy Improve the Health and Well-being of My Dog?
Rehabilitation and physical therapy can improve the health and well-being of your dog in many ways. Primarily, these treatments help reduce pain, speed up recovery time, and improve mobility and fitness. This can potentially restore full functionality to your pup. Furthermore, it can provide relief for dogs with chronic conditions such as arthritis, joint dislocation, luxated patella, and various musculoskeletal and neurological injuries and ailments.
Rehabilitation and physical therapy can also lead to better overall health for dogs as it increases the strength of the heart and lungs, decreases inflammation, boosts metabolism, improves circulation, reduces joint stress, enhances muscle strength and flexibility, stretches affected joints or limbs without causing undue stress. Additionally, structured physical activity reduces the likelihood of injury while providing mental benefits by offering varied stimulation activities that promote happiness.
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What are some Injuries that Would Benefit from Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy?
There are many injuries and ailments that can benefit from rehabilitation and physical therapy in dogs. These include spinal injury, post-spinal surgery, back pain, neurological conditions such as IVDD and peripheral nerve injuries, degenerative myelopathy (DM), osteoarthritis (OA) and joint-related issues, post-surgical cases such as CCL repairs, soft tissue injuries such as sprains and tendonitis, geriatric patients with hind limb weakness, integumentary (skin) conditions such as burns and ulcers, and sports injuries.
How will a Veterinarian Decide Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy is Right for My Dog?
Your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination, including blood work and radiographs, to determine if physical therapy is suitable for your dog. Additionally, they will evaluate any other underlying issues that may cause pain or discomfort. If the vet determines that rehabilitation and physical therapy is necessary, they will collaborate with rehabilitation specialists to create a tailored treatment plan that meets the individual needs of your pup.
How do I Find a Rehabilitation Veterinarian?
The American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians (AARV) is a great resource for locating nearby rehabilitation veterinarians. The website offers information on commonly treated conditions, types of therapies that may be conducted, and facilities offering animal rehabilitation services. You can also consult your primary veterinarian for referrals to local rehabilitation specialists.
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Why is it Important to Consult a Veterinarian Early on if I Notice Pain or Mobility Problems in My Dog?
It is important to consult a vet early on if you notice pain or mobility problems in your pup as this may prevent long-term damage and slow down the progression of the disease. Early detection and treatment of underlying issues can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore full functionality to your pup. Additionally, consulting a vet can help to provide advice on proper nutrition and weight management, which can further improve your pup’s overall health.
Will I be Able to Help My Dog Rehabilitate with Physical Therapy at Home?
Yes! Pet owners can play an important role in their pup’s rehabilitation process by helping them with physical therapy exercises at home. Some of the most common exercises include massage, sit to stand, controlled leash walking, step-ups, dancing, and core exercises. However, it is important to consult a veterinarian or a licensed canine rehabilitation therapist before beginning any physical therapy at home. They will help identify problem areas and provide guidance on the most effective treatments for your pup’s condition.
Conclusion
The investment in veterinary care is crucial for pet owners, as it contributes to the overall well-being and happiness of both the pets and their owners. Providing access to adequate veterinary care, removing barriers, and fostering open communication are all essential steps to improve the quality of life for pets and the satisfaction of pet owners. At Towne Center Animal Hospital and Pet Hotel, your pet is our priority. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call our team at (817) 435 4783, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!
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