Article Release: Issue 19
Release Date: February 5, 2025
Written By: Karla A. Hojas, Marketing Director & Alyssa Rodriguez, Veterinary Assistant

A happy pit bull in a dog wheelchair, enjoying a sunny day on green grass. The dog's mobility aid allows for comfortable movement, showcasing the joy of pets with disabilities.

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in helping pets recover from injuries, manage disabilities, and heal after surgery. Just like in humans, rehabilitation therapies can relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore strength. From laser therapy to at-home exercises, customized physical therapy programs enhance a pet’s quality of life by promoting healing and preventing future injuries.

At Animal Surgical Center (ASC), we are committed to guiding pet owners through the best therapy options to ensure their pets’ successful recovery and long-term well-being.

Types of Physical Therapy for Pets

Laser Therapy: A High-Tech Approach to Healing

Laser therapy is an advanced, non-invasive treatment that has gained popularity in veterinary rehabilitation. Laser (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation) therapy works by emitting infrared light beams that penetrate deep into muscles and tissues, promoting cell repair and reducing inflammation.

A 10-20 minute session of laser therapy is a gentle, relaxing experience for pets that can:

✔ Relieve pain and stiffness
✔ Increase blood flow for faster healing
✔ Reduce inflammation in muscles and joints

At Animal Surgical Center, we offer laser therapy to help pets recover from muscle and ligament injuries, arthritis, and even surgical wounds.

A white Labrador Retriever receiving a therapeutic laser treatment on its front leg, with a person holding the laser device. The setting appears to be a veterinary clinic.

Hydrotherapy: The Power of Water in Rehabilitation

Hydrotherapy uses water resistance and buoyancy to help pets regain strength and mobility. Common forms of hydrotherapy include underwater treadmill therapy and swimming, both of which are low-impact exercises that reduce strain on joints while improving muscle tone.

Hydrotherapy is especially beneficial for pets recovering from:

  • ACL injuries
  • Arthritis and joint pain
  • Neurological conditions affecting mobility
  • Post-operative orthopedic procedures

While Animal Surgical Center does not offer hydrotherapy in-house, we can guide you to the best rehabilitation centers for your pet’s needs.

Acupuncture: Ancient Healing for Modern Veterinary Care

Acupuncture is an alternative therapy that stimulates specific points in the body to alleviate pain and support healing. This treatment is commonly used in pets with chronic pain, nerve injuries, and mobility challenges.

Veterinary acupuncture can:

  • Improve circulation and nerve function
  • Relieve chronic pain and inflammation
  • Help pets regain mobility after spinal injuries

Speak with your veterinarian about whether acupuncture is a good option for your pet’s recovery plan.

At-Home Physical Therapy: How You Can Help Your Pet Recover

Passive Range of Motion (PROM) Exercises

If a pet is unable to move freely due to an injury or surgery, passive range of motion (PROM) exercises help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness. These exercises involve gently moving a pet’s joints through their natural range of motion to prevent muscle atrophy and joint tightening.

Practicing PROM exercises at home can:

  • Reduce pain and stiffness
  • Improve circulation and flexibility
  • Speed up post-operative recovery

Your veterinarian will guide you on proper PROM techniques to use safely at home.

Massage Therapy: Relief for Sore Muscles

Massage therapy is not just for humans—pets can benefit from massage too! Massage therapy helps alleviate tension, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation by gently kneading and pressing soft tissues.

Regular pet massage can:

  • Promote relaxation and reduce anxiety
  • Improve mobility and joint flexibility
  • Speed up recovery from injuries

This form of therapy can be done by veterinary professionals or learned by pet owners for at-home care.

Post-Operative Physical Therapy: Aiding Surgical Recovery

Pets recovering from orthopedic procedures like Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO), fracture repairs, and Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) often require physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.

Post-surgical therapy helps:

  • Reduce pain and inflammation
  • Strengthen muscles supporting the injured area
  • Improve weight-bearing ability and movement

By incorporating physical therapy into recovery, pets experience a smoother transition back to normal activity with fewer complications.

Partnering with Animal Surgical Center for Post-Surgical Care

A happy, brown pit bull in a harness, standing on green grass with a canine wheelchair attached, enjoying a sunny day outdoors.

At Animal Surgical Center, we understand the importance of post-operative care and rehabilitation. We proudly offer laser therapy as part of our advanced recovery options for surgical patients. For other physical therapy treatments, we can help you find the best resources to support your pet’s healing journey.

If you believe your pet could benefit from physical therapy, talk to your veterinarian about available options or contact our team for guidance.

Helping Pets Heal Through Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a powerful tool in veterinary medicine, helping pets recover faster, move better, and live healthier lives after injuries or surgery. Whether it’s through laser therapy, hydrotherapy, massage, or at-home exercises, rehabilitation improves mobility, reduces pain, and enhances overall well-being.

If you’re a veterinarian looking for rehabilitation options for your patients, contact us today to learn how Animal Surgical Center can support your practice with post-operative recovery solutions.