What is Rehabilitation Therapy?

Animal Rehabilitation Therapy uses targeted physical therapies to help restore function, mobility, and improve the overall patient’s quality of life.

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Who can benefit from rehabilitation therapy?

Any pet suffering from a chronic inflammatory disease or recovering from an injury. Although most commonly used in dogs, physical rehabilitation can be part of a treatment protocol for almost any animal species.

What can rehabilitation therapy provide for my pet?

  • Reduced pain
  • Reduced inflammation
  • Increased range of motion
  • Improved balance and coordination
  • Restoration of normal movement
  • Restoration of normal muscle mass
  • Increased muscle strength
  • Weight loss in obese patients
  • Improved overall quality of life

What are common conditions that may benefit from rehabilitation therapy?

  • Degenerative joint disease (DJD) or arthritis (OA)
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Tendon, ligament, and muscle injuries (CCL strains/tears, tendinopathies, etc)
  • Rear limb weakness (Neuropathy, Myelopathy, etc)
  • Paralysis (Spinal injury, Nerve disorders, etc)
  • Recovery from musculoskeletal surgery (TPLO, FHO, etc)
  • Traumatic injuries
  • Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
  • Obesity

What techniques are used in rehabilitation therapy?

  • Massage to relax muscles, reduce stress, improve circulation, and decrease pain
  • Passive range of motion to prevent loss of function, help patients regain their normal function during recovery, and improve circulation to cartilage for healing
  • Neuromuscular stimulation to strengthen muscles and reduce muscle wasting in pets who suffer from temporary paralysis or who are unable to use specific muscles for a short period of time.
  • Laser therapy to decrease pain and inflammation while improving healing in patients with problems such as arthritis, surgical incisions, and other wounds.
  • Therapeutic exercises are designed to improve mobility, strength, flexibility, balance, and overall functional ability in animals.
  • Underwater treadmill therapy is used to decrease the stress on joints, improve a pet’s range of motion, circulation, flexibility, mobility, and balance.

How  is a program developed for  my pet?

At the  ART of Healing, a licensed veterinarian who is certified in physical rehabilitation will perform a thorough evaluation of your pet’s condition, taking into account their medical history, current physical abilities, and treatment goals. Based on this assessment, a personalized therapeutic exercise program will be created to address your pet’s specific needs and limitations.

How do I schedule?

Please call us at (262) 363-4557 to schedule a consultation. This initial consultation will take about 30 minutes and will develop a program specific for your pet’s needs.