If You Need Physical Therapy, Your Dog Probably Does, Too!

Empowering Senior Dogs: The Vital Role of Rehabilitation Therapies in Colorado

I rescued my sweet Bella when she was almost 1 year old.  As a personal trainer, I looked at Bella’s strong body and energetic attitude with admiration.  Her four legs worked twice as hard as my two legs and it showed! Bella’s hamstrings and glutes were visibly noticeable! But as she began to slow down I noticed a limp in her step, how she’d gingerly jump out of the car or off the bed.  I knew I had to help care for her body as I had cared for my own - stretching, chiropractic adjustments, laser therapy to reduce inflammation, change her diet to reduce the processed kibble and allow her to sleep when she wanted.

As our beloved canine companions age, they often face challenges similar to those experienced by aging humans—joint pain, decreased mobility, and chronic discomfort. Just as proactive healthcare is essential for senior humans, our senior dogs benefit immensely from specialized rehabilitation therapies. These therapies not only alleviate pain but also enhance quality of life, allowing our furry friends to enjoy their golden years with vitality.

🐾 Understanding the Needs of Senior Dogs

Aging in dogs brings about various physiological changes, including arthritis, muscle atrophy, and reduced flexibility. These changes can lead to decreased activity levels and overall discomfort. Implementing rehabilitation therapies can address these issues, promoting better health and well-being.

🏃‍♂️ Physical Therapy: Restoring Mobility and Strength

Canine physical therapy focuses on improving strength, flexibility, and balance. Through targeted exercises, senior dogs can regain mobility, reduce pain, and prevent further deterioration. Techniques such as passive range of motion and balance exercises are commonly employed.

💧 Hydrotherapy: Low-Impact Exercise for Joint Relief

Hydrotherapy utilizes water's buoyancy to reduce stress on joints while allowing effective exercise. Underwater treadmills and swimming sessions help in building muscle strength, enhancing cardiovascular health, and alleviating pain associated with arthritis and other joint issues.

🦴 Chiropractic Care: Aligning for Comfort

Veterinary chiropractic care involves spinal adjustments to improve nerve function and alleviate musculoskeletal pain. Regular chiropractic sessions can lead to increased mobility, reduced discomfort, and an overall better quality of life for senior dogs.

🪡 Acupuncture: Ancient Technique for Modern Relief

Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and pain relief. In senior dogs, acupuncture has been effective in managing chronic pain, improving mobility, and enhancing overall well-being.

🏥 Notable Animal Rehabilitation Centers in Colorado

For pet owners seeking specialized care for their senior dogs, several reputable rehabilitation centers in Colorado offer comprehensive services:

• Canine Rehabilitation & Conditioning Group (CRCG) – With locations in Englewood and Broomfield, CRCG offers a range of services including rehabilitation, hydrotherapy, acupuncture, and chiropractic care. Their facilities feature Colorado’s first and largest fresh-water indoor recreational swimming pools for dogs. (CRCG)
  
  
• Colorado Veterinary Specialty Group (CVSG) – Located in Littleton, CVSG's Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation service specializes in diagnostics and non-surgical management of lameness, injury prevention, conditioning, rehabilitation, and pain management. They offer advanced therapies including acupuncture and chiropractic care. (covetspec.com)
  
  
• Rocky Mountain Veterinary Rehabilitation (RMVR) – Based in Boulder, RMVR provides rehabilitation and pain management services to restore and maintain your pet's quality of life. Their team works closely with pet owners and veterinarians to develop personalized treatment plans. (rockymountainvetrehab.com)
  
  
• Walking Paws Rehabilitation – Located in Boulder, Walking Paws offers comprehensive rehabilitation services including physical therapy, hydrotherapy, acupuncture, and chiropractic care. Their team is dedicated to improving mobility and reducing pain in senior pets. (walkingpawsrehab.com)
  
  
• Animal Rehabilitation Center of Western Colorado – Situated in Grand Junction, this center offers rehab services for dogs and cats, including acupuncture, underwater treadmill therapy, and other therapeutic modalities aimed at improving mobility and comfort in senior pets. (Animal Rehab Center)
  
  

📞 Taking the Next Step

If your senior dog is showing signs of discomfort or decreased mobility, consider consulting with a veterinary rehabilitation specialist. Early intervention can lead to significant improvements in your pet's quality of life.

Remember, proactive care is the key to ensuring our senior dogs enjoy their golden years with comfort and joy.