When dogs have an injury or chronic condition, such as arthritis, physical rehabilitation can ease their pain and improve their strength and flexibility.
“There are a number of situations where dogs could benefit from physical rehabilitation, but the common reason is to improve recovery following surgery, usually orthopedic surgery — or surgery on bones and joints — and neurologic surgery — typically back or neck surgery,” said Dr. Jacqueline Davidson, a clinical professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “Most programs will include specific strengthening or stretching exercises that are prescribed to target the primary muscles or tissues that are involved.”
Other reasons that a dog could benefit from a rehabilitation program include recovering from injuries that did not require surgery, such as leg, foot, or nerve injuries; increasing mobility and quality of life for obese or older patients; or improving a working or sporting dog’s performance.
