What is Canine PT anyway and how can it help my pet?

Written By Mary Nunes
 

Restoring Comfort, Mobility, and Joy!

 

As our beloved pets grow older, it’s natural for their bodies to slow down. You might notice your dog taking a little longer getting up, hesitating before jumping off the couch (or avoiding getting on couch at all!), or just seemingly getting stiffer after a nap. Think these are just “normal aging”? Not necessarily! These are more than just “signs of aging” , they are just a few quiet signs your furry friend may be experiencing pain, weakness, or joint dysfunction!

At Aligned Animal Rehab and Fitness, we specialize in supporting senior pets through this gentle time with effective tools of physical therapy. Our goal is simple: to help your animal move better, feel better, and live more comfortably—-at ANY age!

So what exactly is Physical therapy for pets?

Animal physical therapy (also known as veterinary rehabilitation) is much like human PT- adapted specifically for the anatomy, needs, and spirit of animals. It’s a science-backed, compassionate approach that helps address mobility issues, reduce pain, and support healing from injury or chronic conditions. For senor pets especially, physical therapy can be life-changing!

Physical therapists and veterinary professionals pursue specialized certifications that blend their previous knowledge and background with the demands and skills needed to appropriately help animals recover from injury, surgery, or simply navigate the aging process.

How It Helps Your companion

As pets age, they commonly develop conditions like:

Arthritis- Inflammation and degeneration in the joints, leading to stiffness and pain.

Hip Dysplasia- poor development or wear of the hip joint

Cruciate Ligament Injuries (CCL tears)- similar to ACL injuries in people, this involves an injury to the stifle (knee)

Spinal Conditions & Weakness- conditions like IVDD

Muscle Loss & Balance Issues- due to reduced activity or pain which becomes a viscous cycle and further decline

Physical therapy helps manage these conditions by:

  • Helping to reduce pain and inflamation

  • Improving joint function and flexibility

  • Rebuilding muscle strength and coordination

  • Enhancing balance and confidence

  • Supporting the nervous system and emotional well-being

What to Expect at Our Clinic

Your pet’s journey begins with a thorough evaluation- we look at posture, gait (how they walk), flexibility, muscle tone and strength, and each family’s individual lifestyle and needs to create an individualized treatment plan. This may include:

  • Manual Therapy

  • Therapeutic Exercises and home exercise program (for strength, balance, and overall mobility)

  • Laser therapy or PEMF (for pain relief and cellular healing)

  • Home Program Support (so you feel empowered in your pet’s care and optimize outcome)

And most importantly: every session is infused with compassion, patience, and connection. We take our time. We listen. We honor the animals'‘s pace and truly believe and abide by a fear-free approach to care. Because healing is never just physical! The care your senior pet receives in our clinic is intended to support their wholeness-body, mind, and spirit!

Whether your companion is slowing down from age or recovering from a condition like surgery, arthritis, or cruciate tear—there is help. there is hope!

Ready to Support Your Pet’s Comfort and Quality of Life?!

You don’t have to wait until your dog is struggling to act! Physical therapy can support aging pets proactively —maintaining strength, mobility, and dignity through their golden years!

Reach out today to schedule a consultation or ask a question-we’d be honored to help!

Because your pet truly deserves to move freely, feel loved, and live their best life-every single day!

Mary Nunes