Veterinary Rehabilitation for Dogs: Not Just for Recovery
Dr. Cara McNamee
Veterinary rehabilitation is a growing field that offers a variety of treatments to help dogs with a wide range of conditions, including those who are not recovering from surgery or injury.
Here are some of the ways that veterinary rehabilitation can help dogs:
Reduce pain: Pain can be a major problem for dogs with a variety of conditions, including arthritis, hip dysplasia, and spinal injuries. Veterinary rehabilitation can help to reduce pain by using techniques such as massage, heat therapy, and acupuncture.
Improve range of motion: Many dogs with chronic conditions experience a loss of range of motion in their joints. This can make it difficult for them to move around and can lead to further pain and discomfort. Veterinary rehabilitation can help to improve range of motion by using exercises and stretching techniques.
Increase muscle strength: Muscle weakness is another common problem in dogs with chronic conditions. This can make it difficult for them to support their weight and can lead to further pain and discomfort. Veterinary rehabilitation can help to increase muscle strength by using exercises and resistance training.
Improve balance and coordination: Dogs with chronic conditions may also experience problems with balance and coordination. This can make it difficult for them to walk and run safely. Veterinary rehabilitation can help to improve balance and coordination by using exercises and balance boards.
Reduce stress and anxiety: Dogs with chronic conditions may experience stress and anxiety, which can make their symptoms worse. Veterinary rehabilitation can help to reduce stress and anxiety by using techniques such as massage, hydrotherapy, and acupuncture.
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A young black lab balances on a disc as a part of his veterinary physical rehabilitation conditioning program.
If you are concerned about your dog's health, talk to your veterinarian about veterinary rehabilitation. It may be the perfect way to help your dog live a long and healthy life.
Here are some additional benefits of veterinary rehabilitation for dogs:
Improved quality of life: Veterinary rehabilitation can help dogs to regain their independence and mobility, which can lead to a significant improvement in their quality of life.
Reduced cost of care: In some cases, veterinary rehabilitation can help to reduce the cost of care by preventing the need for surgery or other expensive treatments.
Increased lifespan: Studies have shown that dogs who receive veterinary rehabilitation tend to live longer than dogs who do not.
If you are considering veterinary rehabilitation for your dog, be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the benefits and risks. Veterinary rehabilitation is a safe and effective treatment that can help dogs to live longer, healthier lives.