In the world of pet care, taking care of your furry friends goes beyond just taking them for walks and giving them love. Just like humans, dogs can benefit greatly from therapeutic exercises customized to their individual needs. In this blog post, our vets in Vancouver will discuss the importance of dog physical therapy exercises and how they can significantly improve your canine companion's overall health and well-being.
What are Therapeutic Exercises?
Therapeutic exercises for dogs include various movements and activities that aim to improve their physical health and overall quality of life.
These exercises can be used for rehabilitation after an injury or serve as proactive measures to maintain optimal health and prevent future ailments.
Benefits of Therapeutic Exercise for Pets
Previously, pet owners were advised that therapeutic exercises for pets should only be used when they were in pain or after surgery.
However, we now know that there are more options available to help pets recover, stay active, receive suitable exercise, and sustain their quality of life.
Some of the benefits of our therapy training services include:
- Improved balance and proprioception
- Stronger limbs and protected joints
- Increased flexibility and range of motion
- Improved independence of movement
- Decreased pain and faster healing
- Slower disease progression
Examples of Pet Therapy Exercises
Range of Motion Exercises for Dogs
Range of motion exercises are crucial for maintaining joint health and mobility in dogs. Gentle stretches and controlled movements can help keep joints supple and prevent stiffness, particularly in senior dogs or those with orthopedic issues such as arthritis.
Veteritiansans recommend incorporating daily stretches into your pet's routine, focusing on key areas such as the hips, shoulders, and spine.
Manual Therapy for Dogs
Manual therapy and massage are two techniques commonly used in pet therapeutic exercises. The main goal of these techniques is to reduce pets' pain while improving their mobility, function, and overall quality of life.
Your vet may suggest massage therapy and manual therapy to help refresh and relax strained muscles.
When combined with manual therapy, this approach can significantly improve your pet's mobility, particularly if they're recovering from an injury or have a neurological disorder.
Balance & Proprioception Exercises
Dogs, like humans, can benefit from exercises that challenge their balance and body awareness, also known as proprioception. These exercises can include standing on unstable surfaces or navigating obstacle courses, which can improve their coordination, stability, and proprioceptive abilities. These exercises benefit athletic dogs as they can prevent injuries and optimize their performance.
At Mountain View Veterinary Hospital, we offer different Therapy Services
At Mountain View Veterinary Hospital, we offer various pet services, including rehabilitation & therapeutic services provided by our team of veterinary specialists.
We aim to help dogs feel great and live healthier, happier lives through a range of therapies and exercises that promote holistic canine health.
We understand pets' unique needs and the importance of providing them with indispensable tools to improve their quality of life.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet to accurately diagnose your pet's condition.