Why Animals Need Physical Rehabilitation
Just like you need physical therapy for orthopedic and neurological conditions, pets need rehabilitation for wellness.
As veterinarians specializing in physical rehabilitation, we are dedicated to evaluating and treating animals with movement challenges. Collaborating closely with you and your pet, we focus on early intervention strategies that promote faster recovery. These strategies include regular, targeted exercises designed to build strength and improve balance. By stimulating muscle memory, we help your pet regain mobility and function more effectively.
While physical rehabilitation for animals differs from human therapy, many of the treatments we provide—such as acupuncture, LASER therapy, and exercises resembling “playtime” or “agility work”—are similar, tailored to meet the unique needs of your pet.
Examples of Common Conditions Helped by Physical Rehabilitation
A dog with a cruciate ligament tear (CCL) remains lame after surgery.
Targeted physical rehabilitation can be crucial to recovery, as dogs who get physical rehabilitation regain their strength faster than dogs who don’t. Additionally, preventing injury to the unaffected leg is essential.
An older dog with idiopathic vestibular disease and arthritis in his knees and hips who has a hard time getting back to normal walks and hikes.
Rehabilitation eases joint pain and stiffness to help dogs return to normal faster.
A cat with arthritis in her elbows who no longer jumps down or uses her litter box.
These are signs of pain in kitties! Many cats enjoy and benefit from acupuncture and LASER therapy for pain remedy assistance.
An older dog who has arthritis in the knees and hips that results in having a hard time getting into a car and slowing down on walks and hikes.
Rehabilitation can lessen joint pain, improve motion to help regain mobility and extend quality of life.
A dog with degenerative myelopathy (DM) who has a hard time jumping into a car.
Dogs who receive intensive physical rehabilitation and exercise have significantly longer survival times compared with dogs who receive no physical rehabilitation.
A dog with intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) who has just had back surgery or isn't a candidate for surgery.
Learning strategies to prevent re-injury is critical for a successful recovery. Rehabilitation gives your pet the strength and coordination to play with other dogs and reduce the chance of re-injuring their back and improve their quality of life.
In-Home Physical Rehabilitation for Pets in the Brandywine Valley
We keep your pets moving and feeling their best! We’re committed to educating our clients about keeping pets healthy with good nutrition and exercise.
Not in the Brandywine Valley?
We offer a virtual fitness evaluation to healthy animals under the care of a primary care, surgeon, and/or neurologist veterinarian.
Services
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Physical Rehabilitation Consult STRUT goes beyond the standard vet exam by analyzing your pet's gait and assessing their strength, endurance, and flexibility. Our evaluation also includes a thorough pain status assessment, with the goal to reduce the need for pain medication. By assessing your animal's movements within the home, we focus on real-life improvement in the living space. You will receive a customized exercise program designed to help your pet build strength, endurance, and balance. | Fitness Evaluation for Healthy Dogs This is a preventative exam for dogs without existing health issues. Our goal is to educate and provide information on common breed-specific conditions and preventative care, helping to increase your dog's health span while maximizing their strength and endurance. |
Nutritional Assessment We analyze your pet's current diet and provide tailored recommendations to maximize recovery and enhance performance. |
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Exams for Rescue Organizations & Law Enforcement If a pet is under the care and responsibility of a 501c3 non-profit organization, please let us know in advance. |
Consultation |
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