
Canine Physical Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
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Result times vary on several factors including your dog’s history, diagnosis, comorbidities, age, and mobility. It also depends on how involved the human is in recovery. We will work together in our initial consultation to devise a plan on how many sessions your dog will need.
Typically, noticeable improvements in mobility, pain levels, and functionality can be seen within 4-6 weeks of beginning a treatment plan. More significant improvements may take 6-12 weeks. However, every dog is different and progresses at their own pace. It's important to remain patient through the process.
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Dogs are typically more comfortable in their own home, without having to scope out a new environment or the scent of other stressed out dogs.
Some dogs can be protective of the home at first, but most dogs think that their PT is just a very fun visitor who gives them a lot of attention and treats! Whether your dog is outgoing or shy, your therapist will adjust to their style.
Your therapist can assess the dog’s home environment and help recommend flooring, mobility aids, or basic rearrangements to help your dog get around better.
Home treatment is great for those who work from home during the daytime, saving time from driving to an appointment. A few weekend and evening appointments are available as well, for those who can’t be home during business hours.
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There is a fixed cost for all initial evaluations and single appointments. Because physical therapy works best as an ongoing process, discounts are provided for packages of five (10% discount) and ten (15% discount) PT sessions.
Please contact me to discuss pricing for your dog
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I have a clinical doctorate in physical therapy (DPT) and a certification in canine rehabilitation (CCRP). Prior to physical therapy, I was also a licensed massage therapist and a certified personal trainer for humans. I also have a master’s degree in psychology.
Though my bodywork professional career was initially geared towards humans, I started practicing massage therapy on my sister’s 120lb dog back in massage school almost 15 years ago.
As an animal lover, dogs have always played a huge role in my life, and I feel grateful that I get to work with them each and every day.
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There are a range of conditions that can benefit from physical therapy including, but not limited to:
Some dogs experience a lot of physical changes with age including arthritis, degenerative joint disease, spine and disc disease
Dogs of all ages can experience muscle strains, joint, ligament and tendon injuries, fractures and nerve injuries causing them to slow down, limp, or avoid their favorite activities
Dogs who have been out of shape for awhile can get sore after a long weekend of camping, hiking, skiing, and all the other adventures you love to bring them on. Whether major or minor injury, age related or soreness, Paws Align Canine Rehab can help.
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Yes, a physical therapy evaluation is different from a veterinary medical exam and diagnosis. The initial evaluation helps me assess your dog’s overall movement, discuss the injury, and set functional movement and lifestyle goals.
Your veterinarian may provide a diagnosis such as a torn ligament, arthritis, or muscle strain. Here at Paws Align, I take a full-body functional approach looking at not only the diagnosed injury, but how it is affecting the rest of the dog’s body, movement, and behavior.
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It depends on the type of reactivity and what triggers your pup. Many times, a dog is simply protective of their home when new visitors are around.
I come with calm energy and lots of treats on hand, so many times, by the end of the first session, we’re usually on great terms!
On the initial intake paperwork, there are sections for you to list bite history, etc. Please disclose any aggression or bite history and we can work together to determine if physical therapy is right for your dog.
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Pet insurance companies set their own rules for reimbursements, so you will need to check with your insurance provider.
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Every case is different, so there is no one size fits all package.
Your dog’s initial evaluation will include a thorough assessment that will provide more information about your dog’s needs. You and your dog’s therapist will discuss the ideal frequency and duration of treatment based on your schedule and your dog’s condition.
As with humans, a dog’s body and mind take time to adjust to new movement and activities. While many cognitive effects can be seen right away, the physical effects such as improved balance and strength or improved walking are usually seen after the first 4-6 weeks. Most new clients will start with an initial evaluation and a package of 5 treatment sessions.
Chronic and degenerative conditions typically benefit from longer or ongoing treatment for maintenance.
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Click below to contact Paws Align Canine Rehab