Taking Care of the "Golden Years"
(our senior dogs)
At Well Paws K9 Rehab we do not limit the benefits of rehabilitation to patients recovering from injuries or illness. Joint mobilization, soft tissue massage, trigger point release, heat therapy, laser and electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) are very therapeutic, especially for our geriatric patients that need that extra care as they age gracefully.
Joint pain, weight gain, soreness, loss of flexibility, strength and mobility raise extra challenges that affect a dog’s activity and enjoyment of life.
Orthopaedic Injury Rehabilitation
Canine Rehabilitation Therapy improves patient comfort and recovery after injury, helping them to return to their active lifestyle faster. After any orthopaedic injury or illness, rehabilitation therapy is an integrative part of the recovery process. All treatments are individually designed to meet each patient’s needs and goals to ensure a functional recovery.
Common orthopaedic and musculoskeletal conditions we see include post-surgical repair of joint problems, such as cruciate rupture (CCLR), hip replacement (THR) or excisions (FHNE), osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD), osteoarthritis, joint dysplasia and luxations, fracture repair, soft tissue trauma of the muscles, tendons and ligaments.
These conditions can cause pain, weakness, decreased range of motion and flexibility, reduced strength and endurance, and difficulties with normal activities. Rehabilitation is aimed to help support the associated soft tissues — muscles, tendons, ligaments - which, in addition to the bones or joints are affected.
We also focus on any compensation or changes to normal movements that the dog makes in order to cope with their disability. We use specific techniques to encourage normal use and alleviate these secondary or associated changes.
Techniques and modalities we use for orthopaedic and musculoskeletal conditions may include specific manual therapies and massage, transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TENS), laser therapy, PEMF therapy, thermal therapy, therapeutic exercises and functional strength and conditioning home exercise programs.
Home Exercise Programs
Successful rehabilitation and pain management for your dog requires more than just treatment sessions. A home exercise program is an essential part of your dog's recovery to help him/her successfully meet their goals sooner.
A home advice and exercise program incorporates:
Appropriate manual therapies
Specific therapeutic exercises
Advice on home modifications
Identification of restrictions in activity during rehabilitation period
Assistance and information on the use of short or long term assistive devices for pets having significant mobility issues at home
Our home exercise programs come with instructions and short video clips on how to perform the exercises properly. We teach you a variety of manual therapies: range of motion, stretches and massage of targeted areas, which are selected specifically for your dog’s needs. We select therapeutic exercises which target the muscle groups that require strengthening.