Physical Rehabilitation FAQ

Canine rehabilitation, is much like physical therapy for humans. We adapt human physical therapy techniques to increase function and mobility, reduce pain, speed recovery from injury or surgery, and increase quality of life. As in humans, canine physical therapy is used to treat a wide variety of orthopedic and neurological conditions.

The first visit begins with a discussion to glean specific information about your pet and provide education so that you may better help your pet at home.  We introduce you and your pet to our facility, helping you both to become comfortable in our setting and with our staff. Next, we perform baseline tests and measures to determine how physical rehabilitation may benefit your pet. If hydrotherapy is indicated, a short introductory swim will be included as time allows.

You will go home from the first visit with a recommended course of treatment as well as specific instructions and/or exercises.

Most dogs come in weekly, with home care in between in order to maintain and even increase progress between appointments. Depending on your dog’s medical condition, your goals, logistics, and financial constraints, appointments could be anywhere from twice per week to once per month.

The post-operative waiting period is determined by your dog’s surgeon, based on factors such as the type of surgery. In most cases, physical rehabilitation can begin 2-6 weeks after surgery. The sooner physical rehabilitation begins once your surgeon has determined it to be safe, the faster and more effective treatment will be.

In some cases, physical rehabilitation can be an alternative to surgery. Conditions that can often be managed non-surgically with proper rehabilitation include cruciate ligament tears, patellar luxations, hip dislocations and disc issues.

A licensed physical rehabilitation specialist will perform your dog’s evaluation. Follow-up treatments may be administered by other members of our highly trained staff, which includes veterinary technicians and physical rehabilitation assistants.

Photo by Fred Levy

Many of our dogs are not swimmers by nature, whether due to breed disposition, a traumatic experience, or simply never having been properly introduced to the water. Based on our vast experience we are able to positively encourage your pet’s participation in swimming. This involves using the life vest, an Angell staff member joining your pet in the pool as necessary, the caregiver’s support, lots of toys, and even a treat or two if necessary. Many who were hesitant to start have become fans, now begging and whining to swim upon arrival!

Angell allows your dog to enjoy the benefits of swimming year-round, in a clean, safe, and temperature-controlled environment. In outdoor bodies of water, exposure to bacteria and other organisms can lead to GI distress, skin conditions, and eye/ear infections. The most dangerous part of swimming is the entry and exit from the water. Jumping or leaping into water may lead to conditions such as swimmer’s tail. Because we often cannot see what is under the water’s surface, your dog could strike an object or become tangled. In the ocean, your dog may get caught up in unpredictable currents and riptides.

No. Angell policy does not permit anyone, except trained staff members, to enter the water with the pets. However, caregivers are encouraged to actively participate in their dogs swim session and are in the pool area cheering them on at all times.

Yes. Chemicals are required to keep the water safe for your pet and free of bacteria and fungus.  We balance the water hardness, alkalinity, pH, and sanitizer (bromine) daily. Angell uses bromine in place of chlorine because it is more effective as a sanitizer in warm water, and gentler on the skin.

For the safety of all, only one pet is allowed in the pool at a time. This permits Angell staff to closely monitor your dog for the duration of their swim.

We require a referral to ensure your pet’s safety and communicate your intentions to swim your pet at Angell to the veterinarian. It is important that all professionals caring for your pet be aware of the services your pet is receiving.

Yes. We love when owners want to take up massage at home, and are happy to share tips on how and when to do so.

If a dog is struggling with pain or a mobility issue, it may be best to do massage once or twice a week. For younger dogs seeking massage as a preventive measure, once or twice a month may be right. During your initial session, we will talk about a plan for your dog’s health going forward.

Immediately after a massage, your dog may feel thirsty and may need to relieve him or herself immediately afterward.

In the hours and days following a massage, your dog is likely to feel younger and move with greater ease.

Some dogs may experience isolated soreness, fatigue, or unsteadiness in the first 24-48 hours after a massage. This is a natural part of the process, and will subside as your dog integrates the work. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us!

No. Petting is a superficial rubbing of a dog’s fur. On the other hand, massage therapy, performed by a Certified Small Animal Massage Therapist, is an intentional manipulation of the soft tissues and muscles to promote health and healing. The massage therapist uses precise techniques at specific depth and using a particular direction of movement to optimize the desired effect.

No. Unlike physical rehabilitation and swim sessions, massage can be given without a vet referral.

Yes. Anyone is welcome to book massage appointments with Angell’s PR service.

Some physical rehabilitation sessions do incorporate massage. However, in a dedicated massage session, your dog will enjoy concentrated manual treatment for a longer period of time, allowing for greater relaxation and muscle release.