While physical therapy can work for humans, it can also work for your pet.
Canine rehabilitation, often called “physical therapy for dogs,” is a relatively new field. With legal specifications in twenty out of the fifty states, this practice is beginning to rise as it meets the demands of pet owners. Maryland does not currently say anything concerning this type of rehabilitation, but the industry is starting to rise in the state nonetheless, and for good reason. Below you’ll find out what it is, and why it matters.
What Is Canine Rehabilitation
As opposed to veterinary medicinal and surgical practice, canine rehabilitation aids with the healing of the muscles, ligaments, bones, joints, tendons, and nerves. Canine rehabilitation can be seen as part of holistic and integrative veterinary medicine practices, but requires vets who specialize in this field. Certified canine rehabilitation therapists address the issues of post-surgery recovery, recovery after an injury, obesity, and arthritis. Treatment can come in numerous forms, including hydrotherapy, laser therapy, electric stimulation, and therapeutic ultrasound. These practices have had proved records of success in the past and continue to be a growing service in demand today for certain key benefits.
Faster Recovery
Just as people greatly benefit from physical therapy after surgery or an injury, so dogs also recover quicker. Having your dog get physical rehabilitation is the most humane and holistic way to care for your pet; your dog will get back to enjoying a regular, active life sooner and enable a happier life.
Less Pain
Your dog will also experience less pain for less time. Underwater treadmills for hydrotherapy use warm water to loosen the muscles and joints as the dog walks on the treadmill, and passive range of motion exercises make sure the pet’s limbs maintain a full range of motion as they heal. Using such practices will shorten the length of time and amount of pain a dog has to suffer through recovery.
Long-lasting Benefits
Canine rehabilitation also has invisible long-lasting effects. Exercise specifically designed not to over-tire your dog can help patients strengthen their heart. Rehabilitation can also develop immunity to prevent infections to present and future wounds. For present help, the therapy keeps up the dog’s muscle mass through exercise, since a dog can lose a significant amount when immobile for a week or more.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131 or 410-793-7670! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Pinterest!