Cranston Pet Rehabilitation Services

 

·         Treatment Programs and the PPR

·         Potential Outcomes of Physical Therapy

·         Benefits of In-Home Rehabilitative Care for Pets

·         The PT-Vet Relationship

 

Treatment Programs and the Pet Progress Report (PPR)

 

An unfortunate myth is that physical therapy is all about exercise, exercise, exercise, with a "no pain, no gain" philosophy. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Many types of treatments are offered depending upon the diagnosis for which the animal is referred, the animal's current physical condition, any pre-existing medical conditions, the pet's age, former tolerance to treatment, and both the short-term and long-term goals of rehabilitation. All forms of physical therapy are non-invasive.

Types of treatments utilized:

·         Owner/caregiver education

·         Manual (hands-on) techniques such as massage, joint mobilizations, passive range of motion, myofascial release, and neuromuscular facilitation

·         Therapeutic exercise that is creative, comprehensive, specific to the condition, and individualized for each pet.  These exercises are designed to assist with motion (quality and quantity), flexibility, strength, endurance, function, lameness, and balance.

·         Thermal modalities such as heat and cold therapy

·         Electrical stimulation to treat pain, swelling, and provide neuromuscular re-education for weak and atrophied (wasting) muscles

·         Ultrasound for its thermal and mechanical effects on soft tissue

·         Gait training to minimize lameness and improve mobility

·         Functional activities (e.g., stair climbing, transitioning from sitting to standing)

·         Wound care, prevention of pressure sores, and other forms of skin protection

·         Balance and proprioceptive training

·         Splinting/bracing

·         Supportive devices/equipment i.e. carts and slings

·         Home program: treatments that the owner will do between sessions and after the animal is discharged from formalized physical therapy

 

                            

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cranston Pet Rehabilitation offers the owner a Pet Progress Report (PPR) that gives timely and regular documentation of the animal's progress in measurable, objective terms that will prove the legitimacy and efficacy of treatments. Additionally, the PPR serves as a document for the owner to take to the veterinarian when the pet needs a "check-up." The goal of the PPR is to give the owner confidence and peace of mind.

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Potential Outcomes of Physical Therapy

 

·         Reduced pain, tenderness, and discomfort

·         Increased quality and quantity of range of motion

·         Improved strength and muscle mass; prevention of atrophy

·         Decreased swelling and inflammation

·         Reduced recovery time after injury or surgery

·         Facilitation of neurological return of paralyzed muscles

·         Improved conditioning and endurance

·         Enhanced function and performance

·         Reduced muscle tightness, spasm, knots

·         Increased flexibility

·         Improved quality of life

·         Minimized scar tissue formation or reduction of scar tissue once present

·         Weight loss for overweight or obese animals

·         Enhanced owner-pet bond

 

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Benefits of In-Home Rehabilitative Care For Pets

 

·         Stress is minimized for both the pet and pet owner. Many pet's don't "travel well" and may become overly stressed, fearful, anxious, and/or aggressive due to transporting.

·         Convenience for the pet owner is enhanced - flexible hours, no travel time, avoid risks associated with travel for the pet, eliminate the possibility of further injury or illness by avoiding contact with unfriendly or contagious animals

·         Treatments are rendered in the calm, comfortable environment of the pet's home

·         The pet's living space is evaluated to maximize outcomes and optimize safety

·         "Real-life" situations are incorporated into rehabilitation that cannot by performed in a generic clinical setting

·         Communication with the pet's therapist is enhanced because 100% attention is given to the pet and owner.

·         Quality time spent with the therapist is maximized - no more waiting in congested waiting rooms

·         Potential for injury to owners is avoided by not having to lift large or debilitated animals in/out of the car to be transported.

·         Pet owners who are without transportation or disabled will be able to secure rehabilitative care for their animal companion.

 

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The PT-Vet Relationship

A referral from a veterinarian is mandatory before a physical therapy evaluation can be performed. This will certify a safe and comprehensive care program for the pet. Rehabilitation will only be provided for the condition for which the animal is referred. We will be happy to assist in obtaining a referral from the veterinarian. Information that must be included: diagnosis, medical precautions, pertinent past medical history, current medications, type of treatment desired, veterinarian's signature and date.

 

We strive to establish collaborative relationships with veterinarians to ensure the best continuity of care for the pet. The referring veterinarian will receive a letter following the initial consultation and regular progress reports from Cranston Pet Rehabilitation. The owner or veterinarian is asked to please provide all relevant medical materials such as diagnostic studies (copies of radiographs, for example), surgical reports, laboratory results, and vaccination records. Cranston Pet Rehabilitation strongly believes that clear communication between all parties involved in the pet's care is essential.

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