Canine physical therapy can help animals that are suffering from a chronic condition or that have experienced physical trauma. A veterinarian may prescribe physical therapy in conjunction with prescription medications and alternative healing modalities such as acupressure or acupuncture. The length and frequency of canine physical therapy sessions depends on the patient's pain tolerance and physical condition.
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Function
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Canine physical therapy can help rebuild muscles after an accident, illness or surgery. Veterinarians may prescribe physical therapy for dogs that have conditions like osteoarthritis, bone, tendon and muscle injuries, hip or elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy or for dogs that have had a leg amputated, according to the American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians. Canine physical therapy can also help increase joint mobility, decrease pain and shorten recovery time.
Types
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Veterinarians may prescribe multiple physical therapy techniques depending on the physical health of the dog and the overall treatment goals. Canine physical therapy techniques include massage, manually manipulating the patient's joints and laser or ultrasound treatment, according to the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation. Additional physical therapy treatments may involve having the dog exercise on a treadmill or in a pool.
Professional Training
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Each state has different regulations regarding who can administer physical therapy treatments for dogs. Generally veterinarians prescribe the course of treatment and may administer the treatment themselves or oversee treatment administered by a veterinary technician. As of 2009, physical therapists working in Colorado and Nevada could assist in canine physical therapy and rehabilitation under the guidance of a licensed veterinarian, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Certain North American veterinary schools may offer electives and continuing education classes focused on animal physical therapy and rehabilitation techniques.
Evaluation
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Before starting a canine physical therapy regimen, a veterinarian normally evaluates the patient's condition to measure limb functionality, pain levels and mobility limitations. Throughout the dog's physical therapy sessions, response to treatment is recorded so that the veterinarian can modify the treatment techniques if the dog is not making progress.
Considerations
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A veterinarian may recommend that a canine owner restricts certain activities in an effort to prevent further injury, such as using stairs, until the patient's muscles become stronger. Dog owners may also receive instructions as to how much physical activity their dog is allowed to participate in at home after a physical therapy treatment session.
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