Veterinary rehabilitation is a developing field that recognizes that animals especially pets can benefit from a specific exercise program and other therapeutic modalities that decrease pain, improve fitness, and restore functioning. The objectives of dog rehabilitation include restoring, maintaining, and maximizing strength, function, movement, and overall well-being.
There are several reasons for dog rehabilitation such as:
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Surgery:
After my dog’s first surgery, I wanted to ensure that my dog recovered as quickly as possible so I typed keywords like “rehabilitation centers near me”, “Vet Rehabilitation In League City”, “Vet Rehabilitation In Texas”, “veterinary rehabilitation near me”, “pet rehabilitation near me”on google in order to make the best choice based on the distance, quality of the pet rehabilitation center, and the standard of the rehabilitation facilities.
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Age:
As dogs grow older, it is common for them to develop mobility issues. Pet therapy helps in reducing the pain and restoring mobility.
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Pain:
Rehabilitation can help reduce pain related to injuries and chronic conditions. It can help alleviate pain along with the use of pain medications. Consult your veterinary to ensure that a good pain management regimen is in place.
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Arthritis:
Canine arthritis causes painful swelling of the joints. While no cure exists, rehabilitation can reduce the symptoms.
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Nerve injuries:
Nerve injuries can restrict movement and are usually associated with lots of pain. Rehabilitation can help to minimize discomfort.
All these and more can limit your dog’s mobility and range of motion and place your dog at risk of additional injuries and potential weight gain. The more mobile your dog is, the healthier they are likely to be and their chances for a better quality of life are improved.
Types of Rehabilitation
Pet therapy can increase your pet’s mobility. The specific type of rehabilitation your veterinary recommends depends on several factors such as your dog’s age, overall health, underlying problem, and preference.
Common types of rehab therapy include:
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Underwater treadmill:
This equipment is useful for reducing discomfort and increasing mobility in dogs recovering from surgery, ensuring weight loss, improving strength, and much more.
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Swimming:
For dogs that are physically able to swim, this aquatic therapy when done under the supervision of professionals can contribute to weight loss, build muscle mass, and improve agility.
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Cold laser therapy:
This involves the use of a laser to reduce inflammation and pain, improve circulation and stimulate cell regeneration. This is commonly used on dogs with tendon injuries, arthritis, etc. However, it should only be performed by an experienced veterinarian.
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Acupuncture:
This involves the use of specialized needles to stimulate the body’s release of a natural, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving substances.
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Therapeutic exercises:
Dogs with injuries, arthritis, and other mobility restrictions can benefit from targeted exercise plans created by a qualified veterinarian.
It is the duty of your veterinarian to determine which of the therapies or combination of therapies is best suited to your dog based on its current condition and desired result.
