Rehabilitation and physical therapy have long been used in the human medical fields to promote musculoskeletal health and injury recovery. We are now recognising that exercise programs and other manual treatments can also be beneficial for our pets. Rehabilitation can be used after injury or surgery improve healing, reduce pain and help the animal return to its normal activity. However, rehabilitation is also an important part of maintaining general health in our pets from young pups through to golden oldies. It can be used to teach animals how to use their muscles properly and build the strength and flexibility to allow them to lead happy, active lives and hopefully help to prevent injury. In older pets, rehabilitation can be used to maintain mobility and minimise muscle loss and aid in pain control. An appropriate exercise program can even help to slow cognitive decline. Unfortunately, injuries do still sometimes occur, and a rehabilitation program can help your pet recover from injury and return to its normal activity. If the injury requires surgery, then a carefully managed rehabilitation plan is essential to ensure your pet can return to its former active self. Our goal is to help your pet through all stages of its life from helping young pups with their mental, neural and physical development, keeping your adult dog fit and flexible, and helping our older dogs to stay active and pain free.
Dr Sam Singleton provides her expertise in rehabilitation programs that assist dogs and cats during the recovery process from injuries, surgery and musculoskeletal conditions.
Some conditions treated through rehabilitation include:
- Arthritis
- Cruciate surgeries
- Patellar luxation
- Meniscal injuries
- Spinal surgeries
- Elbow and hip dysplasia
- Shoulder instability
- Acute and chronic injuries
Rehabilitation is just as important for pets as it is for humans. It helps our furry friends build strength, flexibility, range of motion and reduces pain and discomfort. If you would like to know more about our rehabilitation services please contact North Nowra Veterinary Hospital on 4423 1688.