What is canine therapy?

Canine Therapy is basically physical therapy for dogs. It is applying the principles of human physical therapy to dogs. They need rehabilitation and movement just as much as humans.

When a dog is injured or has undergone surgery, it causes them to shift their bodies in ways to help off load their injury. For example, if a dog is limping, they have shortened their stride to limit the amount of weight on that leg or they may even be holding the leg up in the air. By doing so, they are often shifting their weight forwards, backwards, or side to side in manners in which they are not accustomed to moving. As a result, not only are they suffering from a leg injury, but their compensation has likely lead to muscle imbalance, decreased range of motion, and possibly some back pain or limitation.

Canine physical therapy or canine rehab, first addresses pain management. This can be done through manual therapy techniques (massage), stretching, or modalities (laser, PEMF, acupuncture, etc.). Once pain management is addressed, the focus shifts towards improving weight bearing, strength, and functional mobility. We address the compensations that have developed revert back to a normal and functional pattern. This can be things as simple as working on 3 legged stance, core stabilization, or range of motion or as complex as obstacle courses involving stepping, crawling, side stepping and backwards walking over various surfaces and inclines.

Each and every dog is an individual and presents differently. Likewise, they respond to activities differently. It is important that your canine rehabilitation therapist uses an individualized approach to your dog to address the issues specific to your dog.

Want to learn more about canine PT? Contact us for information and to learn more.

Contact us