PET REHABILITATION
Stoney Creek Veterinary Hospital is proud to offer the pets of Whitsett access to pet rehabilitation, also known as veterinary physical therapy.
Veterinary physical therapy is a specialized branch of veterinary medicine that focuses on restoring and maintaining optimal physical function in animals. It encompasses a variety of techniques and modalities aimed at improving mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing overall well-being in pets.
Our pet rehabilitation services include:
- Physical therapy
- Hot/cold laser therapy
- Underwater treadmill
- Acupuncture
Our exceptional rehabilitation team is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care to each pet. They work closely with pet owners to develop tailored treatment plans, supporting pets in their recovery journey and helping them achieve the best possible quality of life.
Why would my pet need rehabilitation?
Pet rehabilitation is particularly valuable for animals recovering from any of the below conditions:
- Post-surgical care
- Orthopedic conditions
- Neurological conditions
- Mobility issues (age-related or otherwise)
Veterinary physical therapists employ a combination of exercises, stretches, and manual therapies tailored to each pet's specific needs, working closely with our veterinarians (or your pet's primary care veterinarian) to create a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.
Why is an Underwater Treadmill so Important for Physical Therapy?
Underwater treadmills are an innovative approach to pet rehabilitation because it involves placing a pet on a treadmill that is submerged in a water tank. The buoyancy of the water reduces the impact on your pet's joints while providing resistance to movement, facilitating controlled and low-impact exercises.
The underwater treadmill is commonly used for rehabilitation in dogs, especially those with orthopedic conditions like hip dysplasia or as needed in post-surgical recovery. Underwater treadmill's help improve muscle strength, joint flexibility, and overall mobility in a safe and controlled clinical environment.
How is Acupuncture Beneficial in Pet Physical Therapy?
Another adjunctive therapy gaining popularity in veterinary rehabilitation is acupuncture. Borrowed from traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture involves the insertion of ultra-thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissues. In veterinary medicine, acupuncture is employed to manage pain, promote healing, and address various conditions such as arthritis, musculoskeletal disorders, and neurological issues.
Many pet owners seek acupuncture as a complementary therapy alongside traditional veterinary care to enhance their pets' overall health and quality of life.
Success Story: Sadie Roseboro
On July 12, 2023, at the age of 6 months, Sadie was involved in an accident that broke her spine. After surgery to repair the break, she did not have feeling in her toes and she was unable to walk, wag or her tail, or even release her urine without manual assistance. The neurosurgeon stated that he did not think she would ever regain feeling or walk on her own.
We took Sadie to Stoney Creek Veterinary Hospital for rehabilitation services. She began receiving acupuncture weekly and after a few weeks hydrotherapy was added.
Bit by bit, Sadie has begun to regain her bodily functions. She now has feeling in her toes, wags her tail, stands on her own, walks, and even sometimes runs/hops. She continues to work on regaining balance and walking for sustained periods of time.
We could not be more happy with the care and healing she has received.
- Dana Roseboro