Animal rehabilitation, also called physical therapy, uses various treatments to improve mobility and quality of life for pets recovering from injury or surgery. Treatments may include massage, range of motion exercises, hydrotherapy, laser therapy, acupuncture, and more. Conditions commonly addressed are arthritis, obesity, disc disease, soft tissue injuries, and post-operative recovery. The goal is to rebuild muscle, increase flexibility, and help animals return to normal activities or better manage long-term conditions.

1. rehabilitation
What is Animal Rehabilitation?
Called physical therapy in human medicine, rehabilitation
is used to improve the quality of life for your pet by
decreasing pain, increasing mobility and helping speed
recovery from surgery or injury.
There are multiple rehabilitation methods and treatments
that can be used to help patients. Each case begins with a
thorough physical exam and treatments are recommended
based on the needs of the pet and discussions with the
owner. Over time, rehabilitation efforts can rebuild
muscle mass, improve range of motion in joints, help pets
lose weight, and decrease the need for medications.
24/7 Emergency Critical Care • Internal Medicine • Surgery
Rehabilitation • Oncology • Ophthalmology • Neurology
Cardiology • Radiology • Dermatology
TelegraphRd
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29080 Inkster Rd. • Southfield, MI 48034
(248) 354-6660
3412 E.Walton Blvd. • Auburn Hills, MI 48326
(248) 371-3713
1425 Michigan St. NE, Suite F • Grand Rapids, MI 49503
(616) 284-5300
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2. What Conditions Are Treated
with Rehabilitation?
Our Rehabilitation Service sees a wide variety of
cases in which the pet is experiencing pain, loss of
coordination and strength, and difficulty performing
normal daily activities. Conditions treated include
(but are not limited to):
• Arthritis
• Obesity
• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
• Post-operative recovery
• Soft tissue injuries
• Hip dysplasia
What are the Benefits of
Rehabilitation?
Pets suffering from orthopedic or neurological injury
may be able to return to their pre-surgical activities
much faster as muscle tone is strengthened, and
flexibility and range of motion increase. Pets with
long-term diseases such as cancer, arthritis, and
obesity may enjoy an improved quality of life by
becoming better able to cope with everyday activities
such as climbing the stairs, running in the yard, and
chasing a ball.
Treatment Methods
Medical Acupuncture
Acupuncture is gaining acceptance in veterinary medicine as
a viable means of pain relief. It works by “neuromodulation”
- stimulation of nerves, spinal cord and/or brain. In addition
to helping with pain, acupuncture can reduce inflammation
and stimulate healing. These actions are, in part, due to the
increased blood flow and improved circulatory effects.
Therapeutic Laser
Lasers are the newest entry into the pain relief field in
veterinary medicine. Often used by professional athletes,
these lasers reduce inflammation, improve circulation and
reduce pain.
Physical Therapy
Therapeutic exercise builds muscles, enhances joint mobility,
and improves balance and coordination in a controlled
environment. Land treadmills, physioballs, balance boards,
trampolines, cavaletti poles and ramps are some of the
equipment used in exercise sessions. Therapeutic exercise
sessions are also great for improving overall physical fitness
and training for specific sports.
Underwater Treadmill
An underwater treadmill is a system designed specifically for
dogs that gives them safe, low-impact exercise. Walking in water
produces fast muscle redevelopment and improves coordination,
joint health and cardiovascular fitness. The warm water helps to
improve circulation.
Hydrotherapy*
Swimming is a great workout for pets. The type of
hydrotherapy used depends on the condition being treated.
Some of our elderly patients do better initially in the soothing
warm water and jets. In some of these cases, the pet “graduates”
to the underwater treadmill.
Massage Passive Range of Motion (PROM)
Massage therapy helps break up scar tissue, enhances healing,
reduces stress and promotes muscoskeletal health. PROM is
especially important right after surgery to increase circulation,
and reduce swelling and pain. Depending on the situation, heat
and cold may be used in conjunction with PROM and massage.
Neuromuscular Electro-Stimulation (NMES)
Electrical stimulation is used to slow muscle atrophy and
increase circulation to an area. It is also useful in relieving
muscle spasms and in decreasing pain.
*Hydrotherapy is located off-site
For more information or to make an appointment for your pet,
please contact our Southfield hospital at 248.354.6660.
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