Before Your Pet’s First Rehab Visit
Our spotlight kiddo of the week-Nala! Welcome to AARF-Danville, VA!
How to Prepare for a Calm, Successful Start!
Bringing your pet for their first rehab session is an exciting step toward better mobility, less pain, and an overall happier life! You’ve made the smart decision and have an upcoming evaluation appointment—now what?! If you’re wondering how to best prepare-you’re not alone! Many pet parents feel a mix of excitement and nerves before that first appointment.
Here are some simple tips to help make your pet’s first visit smooth, stress-free, and successful!
What to bring with you
Veterinary Records—we work with you to help obtain the veterinary referral and most vets will send records of pertinent information on your pets health. This includes diagnosis, imaging, special precautions, allergies, and any other health issues going on we need to know about! If you have multiple vets, please let us know! If you have anything we should know please bring. In order to best help your animal we need to know the whole picture. Some things like cancer won’t exclude them from rehab, however it will affect any modalities we use!
Medication List- we DO NOT prescribe or offer medications. This is between you and your vet. However, we do need to know what your kiddo is taking! Again, this can affect their health and the more information we have, the better we can treat them and be aware of potential issues!
Welcome packet paperwork- we send out a short questionnaire and packet upon setting up the evaluation. If you haven’t emailed it back, please bring it in! The questions in the packet help us determine your goals and setting up the optimal individualized program for your kiddo!
Favorite Treats or toys- for motivation and comfort. This is especially important if your kiddo has certain allergies. We offer treats and have some toys, however if your dog has a certain need or high value toy, we want to know about it! This can also help them feel more secure and less anxious in a new environment.
Comfort item- if your pet has a certain item that they find reassuring/comforting, please bring it! We won’t keep it and everything you bring goes home with you! Our goal is a fear-free and as stress-free visit as possible and some dogs just need that “Linus blanket”!
Don’t worry if you don’t have everything—-bringing what you can is plenty!
How to Prepare Your Pet
Give your dog a short potty walk before arriving so they’re more comfortable
Avoid feeding a big meal right before the visit
Give any medications and/or supplements as prescribed by your vet.
Nervousness is normal! We meet each pet where they are, and our gentle, one-on-one approach helps them settle!
How to Prepare Yourself
Jot down any questions or concerns you have—nothing is too small to mention!
Think about your goals for you and your friend: Do you want them to walk longer, Climb stairs with ease? Get back to their favorite activities? Think about that dream you have and specific goal! Why are you coming to rehab? What can we help you accomplish with your dog? This is discussed in the welcome packet, however if you don’t get a chance to finish it-this question is important and want to make sure you have time to think about it!
Allow for approximately 1.5 hours visit. We begin with a discussion and history of what’s going on. Next we perform a comprehensive examination of your pet, and end with their first treatment. We will also discuss homework and home modification recommendations as appropriate. The first visit is all about understanding your pet as a whole and creating a personalized plan together.
Your pet’s first rehab visit is the beginning of a healing journey-and your role is key. By preparing with a few simple steps, you’re setting them up for success!
Contact us to book a consultation or learn more about how physical therapy can make all the difference for your dog’s mobility.
Because your pet deserves comfort, connection, and a body that supports the beautiful life they’re here to live!
