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Yes, we do use healthy treats to motivate our patients!

How long does physical rehabilitation last?

That depends on why your pet is receiving therapy and the desired outcome. Some of our patients only need a few visits and a home therapy program. Others require regular weekly visits for 6-8 weeks after surgery and some benefit from an ongoing maintenance program. It really depends on the individual. We work with you to develop a program that combines your goals, lifestyle, finances with the best possible outcome for your pet. The best physical rehabilitation program is the one that works for both of you.

Do you have a program for overweight dogs?

Yes. Appropriate nutrition management and exercise are both important to your pet’s weight loss program and overall health. We help you develop a program that will work for you and your pet and lead to a long active life.

How long does a session last?

Each session usually lasts 40-60 minutes and includes an assessment, manual and/or water therapy, and advice and instruction on progressing the home exercise program

How much does it cost?

Again, that depends on the specific therapies your pet requires. The initial evaluation (see “What to expect on your first visit”) costs $65-95. The average cost of a therapy session is $60. Pets with more than one problem will require more in-depth treatment and additional expense. Maintenance hydrotherapy costs $45. Package rates are available. We offer a range of services designed to fit your pet’s needs as well as your budget and lifestyle. Charges will be discussed in advance.

What are the benefits of physical rehabilitation?

Lifelong fitness and improved health and well-being are our goal for your pet.

Specific benefits:

• Improved function, performance and fitness
  
• Increased flexibility and injury prevention
  
• Rapid and complete return of strength and function following surgery and/or immobilization
  
• Maintenance of range of motion, comfort and mobility for animals with degenerative changes such as arthritis
  
• Increased strength and endurance
  
• Reduced muscle tightness, pain and discomfort
  
• Reduced scar tissue
  
• Improved attitude and quality of life

How can I tell if my dog needs treatment?

Your primary veterinarian or veterinary surgeon is usually the best one to answer that question. We sometimes encounter patients who did not begin therapy until severe complications developed. Then the work is more challenging because of muscle atrophy, loss of range of motion and decrease in overall condition. But it is never too late to make a difference!

Prompt treatment of conditions such as arthritis can prevent the onset of crippling pain and lead to a long and happy old age. Please read the section on Osteoartritis for some of the early warning signs. We particularly like to work with older dogs because we can make such a difference in their lives.

For dogs seeking athletic conditioning, the treatment will be driven by their owner's conditioning plan. We can advise you on exercises, stretches and conditioning to prepare your canine athlete for an injury-free season.

How soon after surgery should rehab begin?

Pain management and anti-inflammatory strategies begin immediately post-op. Depending on the problem, we like to begin the next phase of rehabilitation within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. It is often beneficial for your pet to visit our facility prior to surgery to acquaint them with the facility, staff, and underwater treadmill.

Do you work with other animals besides dogs?

We frequently treat cats as well, although generally not through hydrotherapy! Felines suffer from arthritis and other degenerative conditions, as well as requiring surgery.

What training is required to do physical rehabilitation?

In Washington State, only licensed veterinarians and supervised technicians are allowed to provide physical rehaiblitation services. At VRC, Dr. Beverly Hall worked for many years at a surgical referral practice and has completed the Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner certification program at the University of Tennessee. Her rehabilitation skills are complemented by Carol Nett's knowledge of nutrition as well as her own advanced training in chiropractic, osteopathy, acupuncture, and traditional Chinese Medicine. You can learn more about their background and training in the About Us section. VRC was the first facility in Washington State to aquire a hydrotherapy tank designed specifically for dogs.

If you have questions not answered here, contact Dr. Hall at 425.741.8042 or click here to submit your question.